"'You shall be satisfied. I have also a debt to settle with him.'
"The conversation was now carried on in such a low tone that I could not understand what was being said. I hurried to my room and made up my mind to draw you into my confidence."
"I thank you, Carmen," cried Gontram; "Spero is a friend, a brother, and I would gladly offer up my life to save his."
"Of whom could Fagiano have spoken when he said: 'She is in my power?'" asked Carmen.
"I hardly know. God help the scoundrels if they touch a hair of his head!" Gontram had risen. He put his arm about the young girl's waist and gently drew her toward him.
"Carmen," he whispered, tenderly, "your confession was a bitter pill for me, but my love for you is the same as ever. Tell me once more that you love me, too!"
"Oh, Gontram, I do not deserve so much kindness," sobbed Carmen.
"Now good-by," said Gontram. "You shall soon hear from me."
A last kiss and they separated.