At this moment the count entered. "Ismena, my child," he said, approaching his wife, "I have come to take you out, your friends are already waiting for you in the Cañada. How is it that these lovely spring afternoons do not inspire you with a desire to go out and enjoy the free, balmy air?"
"I dislike to walk, and people worry me," answered Ismena, who had lost color at sight of her husband.
"You look pale, my child," replied the count with tenderness, "and for some time past you have seemed low-spirited. Are you not well?"
"There is nothing the matter with me," answered Ismena.
"At most," said Nora, "your sickness is not one that requires the attention of a doctor." And she glanced at the count with a meaning smile.
Irritation and shame sent the hot blood mounting to Ismena's face.
"Nora," she exclaimed, "are you crazy? Be silent!"
"I will be silent, sir count, for, as the saying is, 'the more silent the coming the more welcome the comer.'"
In the general's benevolent face glowed the light of a pure paternal hope.
"Is this certain?" he said, looking tenderly at his wife.