"Oh! we will recover her! We must!" Louis cried with great emotion.
"My friend," Don Tadeo continued, "the three men of whom I spoke to you are at this moment endeavouring to deliver the poor child. However dearly it costs me, I think it is best to wait."
Louis moved uneasily.
"Yes, I comprehend that this inaction is painful to you. Alas! do you think it is less so to a father's heart? Don Louis, I endure frightful torments. But I resign myself, while shedding tears of blood at not being able to do anything."
"That is true," the wounded man admitted; "we must wait, Poor Father! Poor daughter!"
"Yes," said Don Tadeo, faintly, "pity me, my friend, pity me!"
"But," the Frenchman continued, "this inactivity cannot last. You see I am strong, I can walk."
"You are a hero as to heart and devotion," Don Tadeo said with a smile; "and I know not how to thank you."
"Oh! how much the better if you regain hope," cried Louis, who had blushed at his friend's words.
Don Tadeo turned towards Joan.