Tremblingly, and with one last lingering look at Luis, Rita withdrew.
"We will walk, sir, if you please," said the count; and the two men walked for some distance side by side and in silence; Villabuena apparently
plunged in reflection, Luis wondering at his forbearance, and impatient for its explanation.
"You are surprised," said the count at last, "after all that has passed, that I show so little resentment at your uninvited presence here, and at Rita's infringement of my positive commands."
Luis would have spoken, but Villabuena resumed.
"You will be still more astonished to learn, that there is a possibility of your attachment receiving my sanction."
Herrera started, and his face was lighted up with sudden rapture.
"You will of course have heard," continued the count, "of the important intelligence received here last night, and with which this morning all the country is ringing. I allude to the death of Ferdinand VII."
"I had not heard of it," replied Luis, much surprised; for, although the desperate state of the king's health was well known, his malady had lasted so long that men had almost left off expecting his death.
"I know I can depend upon your honour, Luis," said the count; "and I am therefore about to speak to you with a confidence which I should repose in few so young and inexperienced."