"Then I have something to tell you. And I ask that you let it remain your secret. It is an explanation in a way."
"Proceed, señorita."
"If my heart bade me do so, nothing would please me more than to become your wife, señor, for I know that it would mend my father's fortunes. But perhaps I am too honest to wed where I do not love. There is one great reason why I cannot love you."
"There is some other man in your heart?"
"You have guessed it, señor. My heart is filled with his image. You would not want me for wife in such case. My parents do not know. You must keep my secret. I swear by the saints that I have spoken the truth."
"The man is worthy?"
"I feel sure that he is, caballero. Did he prove to be otherwise, I should grieve my life away, yet I never could love another man. You understand now?"
"I understand fully, señorita. May I express the hope that you will find him worthy and in time the man of your choice?"
"I knew you would be the true caballero!"
"And if things should go amiss, and you need a friend, command me, señorita."