CHAPTER II.
Don Garcia was sitting in his study, regarding with some anxiety Luiz Falcam, who, tall and handsome, stood before him.
"You wish to ask me something, is it not so? Well, speak out, and be sure if it is in my power I will grant it."
"I hardly like to ask. It is, I know, daring. I am but a captain, and you are one of the wealthiest men in India; yet I love your daughter, and that is what I wished to tell you," earnestly.
Don Garcia smiled indulgently, and he gazed kindly at the young fellow's flushed face.
"I told you I would give you what you wished, and I will not break my word. I could safely trust Lianor to you. No other man I know has won so large a place in my esteem. But I dare not speak until I know what my daughter thinks. She will answer for herself touching so delicate a subject. Tell Donna Lianor to come here," he said to Toki.
After what seemed an anxious age to poor Luiz, Lianor entered, leaning lightly on Savitre, somewhat astonished.
"Lianor, may I speak before Savitre?" the don asked gravely.
"Of course, papa. I have no secrets from her."