"You are always talking against Mr. Monteith," she said angrily, with a red spot on each cheek, "but I have never found him other than a very high-minded gentleman--besides," hurriedly, "what is he to me that I should care about him?"
"Nothing at all, my cousin," replied Vassalla smoothly, caressing his carefully-trimmed beard; "but I knew you liked him, and would be sorry if he conducted himself badly."
"His conduct has nothing to do with me," she retorted, sharply, "how do you mean he is conducting himself badly?
"Cherchez la femme," replied Vassalla, with sardonic smile.
Carmela's heart almost stood still. She turned very pale; but, with a great effort, managed to preserve her composure. So this was the reason of his coldness to her; he was in love with another woman, and had merely amused himself with her on the voyage. With her, Carmela Cotoner! The thought was madness--and she clenched her hands, while the hot blood flushed her cheeks rose-red.
"I don't believe it," she said, hoarsely.
"I can prove my words to be true," answered Vassalla, suavely; "if you come with me to the Italian Exhibition you will see them there."
"How do you know?" she asked, raising her heavy eyes to his.
"That is a secret, my cousin; will you come?"
"No."