But before I had such a chance, some one knocked hurriedly at the door and Marco rushed in.
“I must speak to you at once,” he said excitedly to Barosa, and the two men went out together.
Inez was literally convulsed with jealous rage. Her face was white, her features drawn and haggard, her hands fiercely clenched, and she was shaking from head to foot. As the two men went out, she watched Barosa, her strange eyes gleaming like those of a tigress watching her prey. And when the door closed behind them, she crossed to me, her hand pressed tightly to her heart.
“Get Miralda from this house or I will not answer for myself,” she said, her lips shivering and her voice low and hoarse with passion.
I threw up my hands with a gesture of helplessness.
With fingers that shook so violently that she could scarcely command them, she tore open the bosom of her dress, took out a revolver and thrust it into my hands.
“Wait here a few minutes until I return. She shall be ready to go,” she whispered and then turned to the door.
“Inez! Quick. For God’s sake!” cried Barosa; and the next moment I was alone again.
I rose and paced the room to shake off the lingering effects of the cramp caused by the cords. My legs were still stiff, but a few turns across the room put me all right.
Presently I opened the door and stood listening for Inez’ return. Although I was within a few minutes of complete success, I was in a fever of impatience.