He took the paper, folded it deliberately, put it in his pocket, then went slowly down the iron staircase, and turned homeward with a slow step, pale face, and stony glance.
His sense of strength and rage had restored his self-possession.
"Is the señorita in her room?" he asked the servant who opened the door.
"I think so, señor; I will ask the maid."
"No, no; don't ask anybody; I will go myself."
And he went up to the room which they had had since the duke had occupied the first floor. On passing from the passage he did not notice Doña Paula, who was sitting near the door, and who was aghast at his strange expression of countenance. Venturita was standing before the mirror. On seeing her husband she said, without turning her head:
"Hollo! I thought you had gone out. What is up now?"
Gonzalo drew the paper from his pocket, unfolded it slowly, and handed it to her, saying:
"This."
"And what is this?" asked the girl in surprise.