"On the whole, we won't do either; we will split the difference. I will
allow them thirty thousand _reales_, and we will content ourselves with
fifty thousand. What I am afraid of is, that I shall get a rascally
brother-in-law who will run through the property."
Thus chatting, they spent the time till ten o'clock, and then they
decided to go to bed. Miguel arose first and helped his wife to her
feet; they lighted the candle and went to their room.
Maximina, according to custom, "blessed" the chamber, repeating a number
of prayers which she had learned in the convent. Then they tranquilly
went to sleep.
Just before dawn Miguel thought that he heard a singular noise at his
side, and woke up. Instantly he was aware that his wife was kissing him
on the neck, again and again, very gently, evidently with the idea of
not disturbing his slumber; then, in an instant, he heard a sob.
"What is it, Maximina?" he asked, quickly turning over.
The girl's only answer was to throw her arms around him, and burst into
a passion of tears.
"But what is it? Tell me quick! What is the matter?"