“I recognize them. They are the same ones,” said Señor Alonso to himself.
“I have followed them, and they are after me,” thought the one with the black eyes. “So much the better, for now we will get rid of all our doubts, and finish things once for all.”
The supper was brought in at last and the three men, as if obeying the same impulse, filled their glasses and began to drink. Then they began to eat in almost absolute silence. It was, however, only the calm before the storm. Apparently the three hidalgos were only occupied with their supper, but while eating and drinking they were stealing angry glances at each other. Each one was trying to find some pretext for opening a conversation, but could not find anything to suit, till at last he of the bright clothes lost patience, and, calling the landlord, said,
“I cannot live without talking. Silence vexes me, and I cannot digest my supper without conversation.”
“Since I am busy waiting upon you—”
“You will serve me better by listening to me.”
“You honor me more than I deserve.”
“I will tell you what has happened to me, and as you are older and wiser than I, and have more experience, you shall advise me, for I feel half stupified and perplexed.”
“In that case, speak, Señor Hidalgo. You have all you want here now, and I can stay.”
“Tripas de Satanas! I am the most unhappy of living creatures, for I am madly in love with the most beautiful and bewitching woman ever born.”