Suddenly a hand was laid softly upon the old man's arm. It was Rosita.
"Ah! it is you, Rosita!" said Don Pedro with a bewildered stare. "Wretched man that I am, what was I about to do?" he added, passing his hand over his forehead.
Rosita came farther forward into the room.
"Stephano guarded by two soldiers!" she cried. "Holy Virgin! what does this mean, and what has happened?"
And she made an instinctive movement towards her cousin. Her uncle stopped her.
"Keep away from this wretched man!" he cried, "for he is a coward and a traitor; he has betrayed your betrothed!"
"Betrayed my betrothed!" cried the girl, with horror. "It is impossible!"
"Not only has he betrayed him," continued the old man, taking his niece's hand, "but he is watching for the success of his treason. Do you recognise my son, Rosita?" he added, with heartrending despair, "or the man whom you loved?"
Here the poor old man broke down completely, and sank back into his chair. The girl gazed at him with consternation. Even the rough soldiers were touched by the scene, and turned their heads aside.
