"The fact is this, Madame. For several days I have heard frequently the name of your implacable enemy, Don Zeno Cabral."
"Ah!" said she, with sudden emotion. "These people are his friends. We are lost!"
"Do not go so fast or so far, Madame; although we should certainly redouble our precautions, and keep ourselves on our guard."
"Dear Don Emile, do not leave me in this situation. Something has happened, has there not?"
"Of what is passing I am ignorant, Madame; only, in case there should be anything important, I am resolved to know it. That is why I have ventured to disturb your repose."
"But what is it that has happened?" pursued she.
"Less than nothing, Madame."
"Ah, you at last avow—I knew well that—"
"Pardon, Madame," interrupted he, quickly; "you misunderstand me, here is the fact in a few words."
"Tell me quickly, I beg you."