But ere the king reached the great hall, the lady and the robber had left it. The don returning, discovered them together.
Again, despairingly, the robber offered his life, but the don was inflexible; hospitality he had promised, and hospitality he would grant. True, the very necessity of this hospitality would nerve his hand to greater vengeance when the time came. But now his guest’s life was as his own; so the trembling Elvira saw the don open a secret sliding door, and her lover was safe.
“Begone to thy rooms, Elvira—the king—the king.”
No second bidding needed she. And when Carlos came proudly into the great hall he found there only the grandee, humbly bowing.
“Fair cousin, why in arms, we are not at war? You bow—enough. Let it be known there is but one king of Castille. When his sword is in its sheath all swords must sleep.”
“Your Majesty can never think a Silva dreams rebellion.”
“Prove yourself loyal. The chief of the rebels has sought refuge here in your castle. His men destroyed, he seeks to save himself by your protection. Deliver him!”
“If the king will hear his subject. A pilgrim came and entreated hospitality, which I promised. The loyalty I bear the king will not allow me to betray his subject.”
“Thou wouldst lose thy head, fair cousin.”
“Rather than mine honor.”