"It is a safe promise—for he knows."
"Knows what?"
"What will happen—before the formalities will be complied with." Her tone was thoughtful, and very serious; and she sighed.
"I think I know what you mean, and I am glad to be in time." She was leaning her face on her hand, and lifted it to look up in surprise. "I want to warn you, too, Sarita—I know you are in danger—and to urge you to abandon this."
"You think I am in danger? Ah, Ferdinand, you do not know the under-currents. What do you think my real danger is?"
"I know you are in danger of arrest; and I urge you to come to England and be free."
"Would that be serving my country and my cause?"
"It would be serving your family." She laughed, and the music of her laughter was indescribably sweet.
"Family," she repeated, half-mischievously, half-earnestly. "I believe you are very much in earnest, Ferdinand, and I forgive you. I am not quite sure you are not foolish. But if anyone else said that, do you think I could hear another syllable from them? It is a counsel of treachery; and such counsel comes ill from the lips of a friend."
"You allow now that I am a friend then?"