A young cavalier, who was concealed in the arbor, instantly advanced, and clasped her in his arms.
"Dear Florinda," he cried, "I feared that you would disappoint me. But we have yet some happy moments to pass together."
"Not a moment, Cesareo," replied the lady; "my father will soon return. I come to beg you to retire instantly, and await another opportunity of meeting."
"You are anxious to get rid of me!" replied the cavalier.
"Not so; my father will soon return, and he will be sure to inquire for me directly."
"Well, then," said the lover, "if it must be so, go you to the house, and leave me the solitary pleasure of watching the window of the room gladdened by your presence."
"No, no, Cesareo," cried Florinda, in terror, "that must not be."
As she said this, her eyes were instinctively turned to the window of her room, and Cesareo's followed the same direction. The shadow of Landon's figure, as it passed between the lamp and the window, was seen defined distinctly on the curtain.
"By Heaven!" cried Cesareo, "there is a man in your bed chamber!"
"My father!" said Florinda.