''Open the door, for Heaven's sake, open the door,' was the reply, in a low tone; 'quick, my life is in danger!'
'I approached the door, and in equally low tones asked: 'Who are you?'
''A woman—but quick, open—open the door, for every moment is precious. I tell you my life is at stake!'
'It seemed to me it was rather a time for action than for explanations, so, taking an excellent Spanish dagger, which I had had in my possession many years, I succeeded in wrenching out the two staples which fastened the door on my side, and then putting my mouth to the key-hole, I asked: 'Have you the key?'
''Yes.'
''Then unlock the door, and bring the key with you to this side.'
'A few moments more, and a woman, to judge from the lightness of the tread, for I was still without light, precipitated herself into, rather than entered, the room.
''Oh! thanks; from my heart I thank you, Señor, whoever you are; I owe my life to your kind assistance.'
'The sound of her voice, which I at once recognized, changed the suspicion which had from the first moment flashed upon my mind, into full assurance.
''Do not be afraid, madame,' said I, 'you are in perfect safety here. Do you lock the door, while I look to my candles.'