"And now, Señor Alvarado, perhaps you will be able to explain how you came to be here alone, at this hour of night, with my betrothed, and why she calls thy name! By St. Jago, sir, have you dared to offer violence to this lady?"
His hand went to his sword. To draw it was the work of a moment. He menaced the young soldier with the point.
"I could kill you as you stand there!" he cried in growing rage. "But the memory of our ancient friendship stays my hand. You shall have a chance. Where is your weapon!"
"Strike, if it please you. I want nothing but death," answered Alvarado, making no effort whatever to defend himself.
"Hast deserved it at my hands, then?" exclaimed the now infuriated de Tobar.
"Stay!" interrupted the Viceroy re-entering the room. "What means this assault upon my captain? Donna Mercedes?"
"She revives," said the duenna.
"Is it thou, Señora?" said the Viceroy. "I sought thee unavailingly."
"Your Highness," said the old woman, "I missed the señorita and found her here."
"And how came you unbidden into my private cabinet, Don Felipe?"