“Bl-l-less you, sir, your obedient,” chimed in the lady.
The notary gravely held out the pen for signatures. Thereupon the don seized it, and speedily signed his name.
“Oh, dear sir, I’d rather not; no, don’t brother.”
For the doctor was again pushing her forward. The modest woman didn’t like to sign, and again her face was buried in her handkerchief.
“Where are the witnesses?” said the grave notary.
And at this moment, the voice of a gentleman named Ernesto was heard at high words with the obdurate footman. The face of the lady thereupon grew very grave, and indeed she dropped her pen.
“Back, back!” shouted Ernesto, without the room.
And the lady was forced to confess to herself, that she now really began to tremble.
And so also did the doctor tremble, for Ernesto had not been informed of these plans, and he might in consequences spoil all.
At this moment there was a rush at the door, the next moment it was flung open, and in the doorway stood the young nephew.