The trip to the De Villa Ranch was uneventful. When they arrived, Gerald was
greeted by the sight of a green sprawling landscape. Ricefields, fruit trees and
a stable that can be seen a mile away. Mrs. Nikki de Villa and Gerald Salinger
arrived at about twelve o'clock noontime. She dropped off Mr. Salinger at their
hacienda and introduced him to one of the caretakers.
"Mr. Salinger, this is Elle Magbantay, the daughter of the head caretaker.
She'll be of assistance to you."
Then she turned to address Elle.
"Elle, kailangan kong dumiretso sa Baguio. Pakisabi kay Sarah, siya na
bahala kay Mr. Salinger."
"Opo Ma'am Nikki."
"Ang nanay mo Elle nasaan? Pakibigay na lang ito kay Bel, tama na siguro
yan para sa isang linggo" Mrs. De Villa gave her their allowances for that
week.
Mrs. De Villa was in a hurry to go somewhere, so she bade them goodbye and
left Gerald to Elle's care.
Elle took Mr. Salinger to the main mansion. The mansion was a modernized
Spanish villa which was relatively quiet and peaceful. The servants and
workers stayed at a modest two-storey house which was a few walks away
from the main house.
"Do you know where Ms. Corleone is?"
"Around the farm Sir. She's been out riding since this morning. She usually
comes back late in the afternoon. "
"Thanks, I would just like to see the farm if you don't mind. May I use this?"
Gerald said eyeing a golf cart.
Elle nodded and gave Gerald directions.
"Thank you for your help, Ms...."
"Sir, you can call me Elle po. If you'll excuse me Sir, I'll go and make sure your
room is ready when you come back."
