"Do you English generally seek pleasure by avoiding it?"
"Scarcely so; but with us self-denial is sometimes counted a virtue," and I made her an elaborate bow to point the compliment.
"Have you practised the same self-denial with all your Madrid friends?" and a sharp little glance told me her meaning.
"I am unfortunate indeed; for all my Madrid friends are making the same complaint."
"I am surprised. For they have not all the same ground as I have. Do you know how much I wish to be your friend, senor?"
"I know that I could not rank your friendship too high."
"Ah, you fence with me; but it is useless, I know. And the time may come when my friendship may be of more account to you than a mere well-turned phrase."
"It must ever be one of my choicest possessions," I answered, wondering what on earth she meant now.
"Sebastian is not at home just now, but he will be here soon. Do you think you are wise in seeing him?"
"I have come for that purpose, senorita," I said, firmly.