"As soon as I possibly can, Señor."
"I understand; the Marquis de Castelmelhor must be impatient to see once more two persons who are so dear to him, and from whom he has been so long separated. But these ladies must require some hours to make their preparations for departure; they are not yet informed of it. I venture to hope, then, that you will accept the invitation that I have made these caballeros, and share the hospitality that I offer them."
"With all my heart, caballero, only I should wish that you would permit me to see these ladies without delay."
"I will myself conduct you to them, Señor Captain, as soon as you have taken some refreshments."
The captain bowed; a further persistence would have been in bad taste.
Don Pablo then left the room with his guests and his most intimate officers. On passing the French painter he did not say a word to him, but he looked at him sardonically, and with a smile which much struck the young man.
"Hum!" murmured he to himself; "It is not so clear to me. I believe I must more than ever watch over these poor ladies. Don Pablo has too readily consented to let them go."
And he left the room, shaking his head for some time.