In the mean time, Roderick had been completely victorious in Spain. He had reached Madrid and established Don Pedro as King; and was now on his return to Seville, where he had left M. de Mallet and his charming daughter. Edric, of course, accompanied him; but the rest of the army had marched to Cadiz to embark, the Greek page only attending upon his master.
"Well, Edric!" said the King, laughing, as they approached Seville, "does not your heart beat with pleasure at the thought of quitting Spain?"
"How can you torment me so, Roderick?"
"Torment you! why I thought you would be in raptures; though I must own, if you are, they are the most melancholy raptures I ever beheld in my life."
"This raillery is not generous. It is unworthy of you. I own I love Mademoiselle de Mallet—but I despair."
"And why?"
"Alas! how can I ask her to share the fortunes of a banished man?"
"Am not I your friend?"
"I know it; but I cannot brook dependence even upon you."
"I do not wish you to be dependent; but what can I do to serve you? Shall I make war upon this cross old father of yours?"