''I see but one course, madame—prompt action; by this means only can you hope to succeed. You should start without a day's delay.'
''And Pepito?'
''Take him with you.'
''Your advice would be excellent were it practicable; but the state of Mr. Livermore's health will not permit him to travel.'
''Oh! never fear, Adéle; your presence and your care will keep me up. I shall gain strength by change of air and scene.'
'Adéle was, probably, about to protest against such a proof of his attachment, when she was interrupted by a knock at the door.
''It is Pepito,' said I. My conjecture proved correct. Opening the door, the Mexican appeared, dressed in a new suit, and evidently not a little proud of his external improvements. He bowed politely to Mr. Livermore and myself, and then bending before Adéle, took her hand and raised it with true Mexican grace, to his lips.
''You arrive, Pepito,' said Adéle, 'at the very moment we are talking about you.'
'Pepito again bowed to the lady.
''Señora,' said he, 'to please you I would die; to obey you I would kill myself.'