"See how unjust you are, my dear general," at last resumed the duke; "it is just this love of Don Zeno for the daughter of the Marchioness de Castelmelhor—a love that you have spoken of so bitterly—that will furnish you with those means you have been unsuccessfully seeking."
"I do not understand the least in the world what relation there can be between—"
"Patience!" interrupted the diplomatist. "What do you wish first?—the immediate removal of Don Zeno Cabral, who, loved and respected by all as he is, resume his presence, influence the votes of the deputies uttered witted at this moment in the town to proclaim, independence, and perhaps elect a president; is it not that?"
"Just so; but Don Zeno will not consent, under any pretence, to go away."
The diplomatist slightly sneered, casting a look of pity on his companion.
"General," said he, "have you ever been in love in your life?"
"I!" cried Don Eusebio, with a start of surprise. "Ah, you are jesting with me, my dear duke."
"Not the least in the world," answered he, calmly.
"To the devil with such a silly question, when we are dealing with a serious affair!"
"Not so silly as you suppose, general. I am not at all wandering from our business. So I beg you do me the pleasure of answering me plainly. Have you, or have you not, been in love?"