Roque for some time after kept a profound silence, for though he affected to treat the matter with jocose indifference, yet he was in no manner satisfied with the mirth and merry sayings which his adventure had occasioned. At length, however, his curiosity prevailed, and almost forgetting his recent disgrace, he again in a friendly manner accosted the Amazon.
"Now, Rufa," he said, "I hope you entertain no rancour against me for what has passed?"
"By no means, good Roque," answered the hag grinning, "I am perfectly satisfied, and I hope you are the same."
"Quite," returned the valet, "quite; so let us say no more about it, but rather tell me, if no ways disagreeable, the origin, progress, and final results of your passion."
"Alas! Roque," replied the old sybil, "it was unfortunate in its results."
And she heaved a profound sigh, whilst Roque, in most sympathetic unison, uttered a dismal groan.
"Console yourself," he said, "with the reflection that your case is pretty general in this sinful world. But what is the name of the amiable barbarian, the sweet monster, the bewitching, yet cruel oppressor, that excited the tender sentiments of your virgin heart, and turned you from the true faith."
"What! you are yet unacquainted with my husband?"
"Husband!" ejaculated Roque, "so there was a husband in the case! Oh, then I am not surprised."
"He treats me like a brute, as he is."