"Now summon the court that
I may introduce my son."
The man bowed and left the room, and in a few minutes returned
accompanied by two more men and several women, all arrayed in
fantastic costumes.
All bowed as they entered, and Santiago waved his hand.
"This is my son and heir," he said. "Come and kiss his hand."
They all came forward and kissed Billie's hand, which he held out
in order to facilitate the job.
"Now," said Santiago, "we----"
"Now," interrupted Billie, "if it is all the same to you, Prince,
we'll have supper. I haven't had a mouthful to eat since
daylight. I'm 'most starved to death."
"It is well," agreed Santiago. "It is well that my heir should
not die of hunger. Let the table be placed."
The order seemed to meet with general approval, and in the course
of half an hour there was spread what would have proved a feast
at any time, but which was beyond description to a hungry boy;
and the way he waded into the food was a caution.
During all this time Santiago had uttered never a word, nor would
he eat but the smallest portion of food--a taste of every dish
which he set before his guest.
"My son tells the truth," Santiago finally remarked as Billie
pushed back his chair with the single word "Bastante," meaning
enough.
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