The Devotion of Enriquez Page #9

"The Devotion of Enriquez" is a short story by Bret Harte, set in the rugged landscapes of California's Gold Rush era. The narrative centers on the character Enriquez, a loyal and devoted Mexican servant who navigates themes of love, sacrifice, and cultural tensions. Through his unwavering dedication to a wealthy American family, the story explores the complexities of loyalty across social and racial divides, ultimately revealing profound insights into human relationships and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in a rapidly changing society. Harte's vivid storytelling and rich characterizations offer a poignant reflection on honor and devotion in an era marked by both opportunity and conflict.

• Short story

								

Did not Don Pancho know that Miss Mannersley and her maid had not slept
in their beds that night, but had gone, none knew where?

For an instant I felt an appalling sense of my own responsibility in
this suddenly serious situation, and hurried after the retreating
family group. But as I entered the corridor a vaquero touched me on the
shoulder. He had evidently just dismounted, and was covered with the
dust of the road. He handed me a note written in pencil on a leaf
from Miss Mannersley's sketchbook. It was in Enriquez' hand, and his
signature was followed by his most extravagant rubric.

Friend Pancho: When you read this line you shall of a possibility think
I am no more. That is where you shall slip up, my little brother! I am
much more--I am two times as much, for I have marry Miss Boston. At the
Mission Church, at five of the morning, sharp! No cards shall be left! I
kiss the hand of my venerable uncle-in-law. You shall say to him that
we fly to the South wilderness as the combined evangelical missionary to
the heathen! Miss Boston herself say this. Ta-ta! How are you now?

Your own Enriquez.
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