“To employ this magic charm with the counsellor,” said Luiza.
“What do you think of it?” returned Donna Felicidade.
Luiza burst out laughing. Donna Felicidade was almost angry.
“Among other instances I might mention two in which the magic virtue of the spell acted in a striking manner. But the servant,” she continued, growing excited, “says that in order to go to his native place and speak with this woman it is necessary to take the likeness of the counsellor with him, and mine also; and for going there, consulting her, and returning, he demands seven pieces of silver.”
“Oh, Donna Felicidade!” exclaimed Luiza, reprovingly.
“Hush! don’t begin now with your objections. Heaven grant that I may be another instance of her miraculous powers!” And straightening herself, “But those seven pieces of silver—seven pieces of silver!” she exclaimed, with wide-open eyes.
Juliana appeared at the door, and said in a low voice, with a smile,—
“Will the senhora do me the favor to come here a moment?”
Luiza followed her into the hall.
“This letter,” she said, “has just come from the hotel.”