''God is my witness!' he exclaimed, the instant I entered the room, 'that I did not seek this poor unfortunate man's death; but it relieves Adéle from all fear. Have you heard any details of the event?'
''I have not; but assassination is not so rare here that you need be under any fear about it. No suspicion can possibly attach to you.'
''I have no fear, for I know my own innocence; but it is inexplicable to me. Poor Percival! he could have had no enemy in the city.'
''Doubtless he was murdered for his money and his watch; but have you heard from Toluca?'
''Yes, and Adéle informs me that I may expect Pepito in the course of the day. So I shall not delay my departure beyond to-morrow, perhaps to-night. But there is some one at the door; doubtless it is Pepito.'
'Mr. Livermore opened the door; but instead of Pepito it was his friend, Pedro, who entered.
''My presence surprises you, Caballero,' said Pedro, drawing a long sigh; 'but alas! I have bad news.'
'What! bad news? speak, speak, quick!' exclaimed Arthur, turning dealy [sic] pale.
'Pedro, before deigning to answer, drew forth a very soiled rag, which served him as a handkerchief, and proceeded to rub his eyes with no little vigor, a pantomime which was intended no doubt to convey the idea of tears having dimmed his eyes.
''Alas! Excellency,' said he at length, in a lugubrious tone; 'poor Pepito is in sad trouble.'