And, turning to the Canadian, he said—
"Will you permit me?"
"A letter which has arrived in this way, señor, must be of importance, so read it without further delay."
The count at once began reading, but he had only got through a few lines ere his face was covered with a deadly pallor.
"What is the matter, señor?" the hunter asked anxiously; "Are you ill, or has the letter really brought bad news?"
"Neither, caballero," the count answered, making a violent effort to regain his coolness; "I thank you, but this letter reminds me of a date which I had not forgotten, alas!" he said with a sigh, "For that is impossible, but which I might have allowed to pass, owing to present circumstances. Instead of conducting you straight to Leona Vicario, as I originally intended, I am compelled to stop at my hacienda. Are you disposed to accept the poor rustic hospitality I can offer you, or will you continue your journey to the ciudad, under the guidance of Diego López?"
"I am entirely at your disposal, señor, and will do what you think proper, as I am in no hurry; you shall decide my movements."
"As you are so accommodating, we will proceed to the hacienda. Diego López, ride on ahead, and inform your mistress of our speedy arrival."
The peon bowed, bent over his horse's neck, dug his spurs into its sides, and started at a gallop.
"We need not hurry," the count said, "for we are only two leagues at the most from the hacienda."