"What a heavy sigh, Julio. You excite my fears. Is your master ill?"
The servant felt the importance of self-control, if he would not arouse the gentleman's suspicions. He therefore said, in a careless manner:
"Nothing is the matter, signor. My master is very well, and to-day is in a good humor. Ever since I saw Bufferio's sword lifted against you, I have suffered from an occasional sudden palpitation of the heart. I find relief only in a deep sigh."
As they thus talked together, he conducted Geronimo to the room containing the large arm-chair.
"Signor Geronimo," he said, "my master is up-stairs. I will inform him of your arrival. Please be seated."
Julio left the room; but instead of ascending the staircase, he hid himself behind a door and listened attentively to hear the clasping of the springs of the chair.
After having waited in vain, for a long time, he returned to the room, and said to the gentleman:
"Signor, my master begs you to excuse him for a while. He is engaged transacting some business with the merchant of whom he spoke to you yesterday. They are preparing a writing for you. Have the kindness to wait a few moments."
He now thought that Geronimo would, of his own accord, take the arm-chair, and with a beating heart he observed his movements. But he was disappointed, for the young cavalier stood at the window, gazing thoughtfully into the garden.
Although Julio knew with what mistrust and impatience his master was counting each passing moment, he said to Geronimo, with assumed indifference: