"He is one of our most estimable citizens. He is possess' not only of the magnificent residence at No. 89 Avenida Norte, but also of a comfortable abode at Las Savannas, and he has a large trade in sponges and hides. His place of business you will have noticed upon the water-front, perhaps?" Kirk wiped his brow nervously and cursed Allan. "And now, as for you, senor?" The principal of the Herara College of Business awaited an answer with unctuous deference. Evidently attributing the young man's silence to modesty, he went on, helpfully: "Senor Torres has instituted inquiries, and ascertained your excellent position with the P. R. R., but he would know more, if soch is not disagreeable to you." "Well--I--there isn't much to tell. It is my first job." This was quickly put into Spanish, whereupon Mr. Torres nodded with vigor, as if this information were indeed gratifying--nay, splendid. "It is agreeable to my friend to ascertain your industry, and I may say you are most highly spoke of at the railroad office. Therefore, Senor Torres affords you an invitation to call at his residence on Thursday evening." "That's awfully--nice," gasped Anthony; "but--er--what's the idea?" "Ah!" The interpreter beamed; Mr. Torres beamed. They combined to radiate a gentle effulgence which was most disquieting. "It is indeed pleasing to encounter a gentleman so truly modest, so possessed of delicacy; but I may say that Senor Torres is look with favor upon your suit. Of course"--he checked Kirk's hasty words--"it is not completely settle, by no means; the young lady is but partly won. However"--he winked one black eye reassuringly--"as friend of the family I bid you not to permit discouragement and despair." Anthony broke out in desperation: "Hold on! Let me explain! There's been an awful mistake." "Mistake?" The tone was blandly incredulous. "Yes. I'm not in love with Miss Torres." Professor Jesus Herara stared at the speaker as if his mastery of the English language was, after all, incomplete. Torres, seeing that he was missing something, interpolated a smiling inquiry; then, as his interpreter made the situation clear, his honeyed smile froze, his sparkling eyes opened in bewilderment. He stared about the room again, as if doubting that he had come to the right place. "There's really a mistake," Kirk persisted. "I don't even know Miss Torres." "Ah! Now I understand." The Professor was intensely relieved. "It is precisely for that purpose we arrived. Bueno! You admire from a distance, is it not so? You are struck with the lady's beauty; your heart is awakened. You are miserable. You pine away. You cannot find courage to speak. It is admirable, senor. We understand fully, and I, who know, assure you of her many virtues." "No, it's nothing like that, either. I have no doubt Miss Torres is altogether charming, but--I--there's just a mistake, that's all. I'm not the least bit in love with her."