CHAPTER XX.
HAPPY FINALE.
WHEN Don Gonzales returned from his drive with Ruez, and while he
was still thinking upon the subject which the boy had introduced,
relative to Lorenzo Bezan and Isabella, he found the general
awaiting his return and desiring an interview with him. This was of
course granted, and the two retired to the library of Isabella's
father, where the soldier resolved to make at once, and in plain
terms, an offer of his hand to this daughter of the old house of
Gonzales, and to beg her parents permission for their union. Being
in part prepared for this proposal, as we have already seen, the
father was not taken at all aback, but very politely and
considerately listened to his guest. At last, however, when it came
his turn to speak, he was decided.
"I will tell you honestly, general, that, while I fully realize the
great service you have done me and mine; while I cannot but admire
the tact, talent, and noble characteristics that have so quickly
elevated you to a niche in the temple of fame, still I am a very
practical man, and look well to worldly matters and immediate
interests. This has been my policy through life, and I have ever
found that it was a good and sound one, and carried me on well.
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