"Let me pass," she said, trying to force her way through them.
"Not so fast, fair Nizza," rejoined Parravicin, forcing her back, "I must have a few words with you. Have I overrated her charms?" he added to Rochester. "Is she not surpassingly beautiful?"
"In good sooth she is," replied the earl, gazing at her with admiration.
"By the nut-brown skin of Cleopatra!" cried Pillichody, "she beats Mrs. Disbrowe, Sir Paul."
"I have never seen any one so lovely," said the knight, attempting to press her hand to his lips.
"Release me, sir," cried Nizza, struggling to free herself.
"Not till I have told you how much I love you," returned the knight, ardently.
"Love me!" she echoed, scornfully.
"Yes, love you," reiterated Parravicin. "It would be strange if I, who profess myself so great an admirer of beauty, did otherwise. I am passionately enamoured of you. If you will accompany me, fair Nizza, you shall change your humble garb for the richest attire that gold can purchase, shall dwell in a magnificent mansion, and have troops of servants at your command. In short, my whole fortune, together with myself, shall be placed at your disposal."
"Do not listen to him, Nizza," cried Leonard Holt, in a faint voice.