We seem to love very truly at twenty—then it is quite an enthusiasm, a second nature that can feed itself on smiles and sighs; but, with all this, I could not help reflecting that Prudentia was leading me a devil of a distance. I thought of my guard, and trembled lest Sir David should discover my absence—a catastrophe which would lead to inevitable degradation, and realise all the prophecies of my father. My companion addressed me—
"Señor, you have become very silent—cannot you speak, to enliven this dreary road?"
"I was thinking, señora, how charming you looked last night—and how adorably you sang."
"A great many have told me that fifty times."
"Then you must have a great many lovers?"
"Do you think that all who see me, love me?"
"If I judge from my own heart, I would say——"
"What——"
"Yes—that they must be compelled to do so," I added, with a tremulous voice.
"Oh, that is delightful! but recollect, señor, that though I shall be most happy to have you for my friend, my lover you cannot be."