Davalos stared in surprise at the small interest he took in this precious missive.
"Shall I read it to you?"
"If it is not very long."
Manolo unfolded it as reverently as though it were the autograph of a saint, and read with deep emotion:
"MY DEAREST MANOLO.—Do me the favour to send me by the bearer two thousand pesetas,[D] of which I am in urgent need. If you have not so much about you, bring me the money this evening.—Always and entirely yours,
"AMPARO."
"My word! She is a cool hand. I suppose you did not send the money?"
"No."
"Quite right."
"Well, I had not got it. It is on purpose to see if you can help me that I have come here."