"Cannot what you have to say to me be heard by that girl, who is devoted to me?"
"Heaven forbid, madam, that I should try to lessen the confidence you place in that person, but allow me to give you a little piece of advice."
"Pray do so."
"It is often dangerous to confide your secret thoughts to persons in a lower station than yourself."
"Yes, that may be true in theory, my father, but I will not discuss it. Be kind enough to explain to me the reason of your visit."
"I am grieved, madam, at having hurt your feelings without wishing it. Pardon an observation which you considered indiscreet, and may Heaven grant that I am deceived!"
"No, my father, no; I did not consider your remark indiscreet. But I am a spoiled child, and it is my place to ask your forgiveness."
At this moment the sound of horses was heard in the camp. Violanta raised the curtain.
"Don Louis has arrived," she said.
"Let him come hither at once," Doña Angela exclaimed.