Padre Osuna has his faults, but he's a big man; there ain't none
bigger in the Californies; and he ain't the man to ruin, without
thinkin' a lot about it aforehand."
"He insulted me horribly," said Roldan, shutting his teeth. "I will
never respect myself until I wipe out the memory of that moment."
"He lost his temper, I suspicion, and whacked ye, like as not. Well,
I'll admit that is hard on a don of your size. But, take my word for it,
you'll feel a sight better if you mount the high horse and forgive him,
treat him with silent contempt. Nothin' makes you feel as good as that.
Tried it myself."
"I must think about it, Don Jim."
"Well, do. And maybe you'll remember that I asked ye as a favour to let
the priest off this time. He's been the best friend I ever had, and he's
been the friend of many, young 'un."
Roldan stepped forward impulsively and grasped Hill's hand. "I will
never speak," he said. "And you can say to Rafael that I wish him never
to speak, either. Only, in return, Don Jim, I insist that you do not
tell him that I promised you this. He shall not think that I fear him."
"Oh, I ain't goin' to have no conversation with him on the subject.
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