"I am afraid that I am disturbing you," said the young lady, casting a malicious glance at Maximina's confused and blushing face.
"No, no; not at all," she replied, growing still more confused.
"One has to act with great circumspection toward newly married people.... But then, you are not among the softest. I came in without ringing, because the servants had left the door open. But if I am disturbing you I will go.... I have known the eleventh commandment this long time."
That light and slightly insolent tone amazed and wounded the little provincial girl more and more each day.
"On the contrary, at that very moment, we were talking about you," said Miguel, in the same light and jesting tone, perfectly intended to convey the idea that he was prevaricating.
"Man alive! what are you telling me?" she rejoined, ironically. "Well, I have come," she added, sitting down in an easy-chair and crossing her legs, "to ask you if you will let Maximina go with us to the opening of the Royal; we have a box...."
Maximina gave him a look, signifying that he should say no; but either because he lacked the wish or the courage, he replied:—
"A thousand thanks.... There she is."
Filomena looked at Maximina, and she, not having the strength to refuse or to make an excuse, made an ambiguous gesture, which the countess' daughter interpreted as an acceptance.
"Very good; at eight sharp we will call for her. You can come to our box, also, if you like; or, perhaps you may like to improve the opportunity for a little dissipation."