The glad lady

The story opens on a breezy summer day in San Sebastián, where a mismatched group of relatives and friends gathers under the watchful eye of Dr. Juan Estradas. Among them are his vivacious American sister Doña Martina, her shy younger brother Don Tomás, and two young women fresh from a French convent—Patty, sharp‑tongued and fashion‑obsessed, and Paulette, a blend of English polish and quiet curiosity. Their arrival is punctuated by humorous misunderstandings at the border and teasing remarks that set the tone for a journey of cultural clash and unexpected camaraderie.

As the party heads to an old family house tucked in the mountains, they promise a summer of exploration: riding burros through winding villages, joining local fiestas, brushing up on art and music, and perhaps dipping a toe into romance. Patty’s restless desire for handsome companions meets the gentle, unspoiled Don Tomás, while Paulette keeps a careful eye on the unfolding drama. Listeners will find a lively mix of witty dialogue, vivid Basque scenery, and the tender growth of characters eager to discover what lies beyond their familiar worlds.