The two men parted, and, as the Count returned from the door, Federico heard a rustling of silks that materially increased the rapidity of his heart’s pulsations.
“My fair bride!” gallantly exclaimed his Excellency, “I am enchanted to see you. How lovely you look, Rosaura! and how deeply I regret that important affairs leave me but a few moments to devote to you.”
“It would seem,” said the lady, with cold severity, “that your Excellency has converted my poor apartment into an audience-chamber.”
“A thousand pardons, dear Rosaura,” was the reply. “A particular friend craved a short interview.”
“It is late,” said the lady, pointedly. “I wish your Excellency a good-night.”
“What!” cried the Count, impatiently. “You dismiss me thus?”
“I am indisposed to-night.”
“You are a cruel tyrant, Rosaura.”
“I, Excellency? They say worse things of you.”