calling every circumstance to his mind, which
related might give Lorenzo's the most favourable idea of his connexion
with Agnes. The Latter, justly alarmed for the honour of his family,
felt embarrassed by the presence of the Marquis: The adventure which He
had just witnessed forbad his treating him as a Friend; and Antonia's
interests being entrusted to his mediation, He saw the impolicy of
treating him as a Foe. He concluded from these reflections, that
profound silence would be the wisest plan, and waited with impatience
for Don Raymond's explanation.

They arrived at the Hotel de las Cisternas. The Marquis immediately
conducted him to his apartment, and began to express his satisfaction
at finding him at Madrid. Lorenzo interrupted him.

'Excuse me, my Lord,' said He with a distant air, 'if I reply somewhat
coldly to your expressions of regard. A Sister's honour is involved in
this affair: Till that is established, and the purport of your
correspondence with Agnes cleared up, I cannot consider you as my
Friend. I am anxious to hear the meaning of your conduct, and hope
that you will not delay the promised explanation.'

'First give me your word, that you will listen with patience and
indulgence.'

'I love my Sister too well to judge her harshly; and till this moment I
possessed no Friend so dear to me as yourself. I will also confess,
that your having it in your power to oblige me in a business which I
have much at heart, makes me very anxious to find you still deserving
my esteem.'

'Lorenzo, you transport me! No greater pleasure can be given me, than
an opportunity of serving the Brother of Agnes.'

'Convince me that I can accept your favours without dishonour, and
there is no Man in the world to whom I am more willing to be obliged.'

'Probably, you have already heard your Sister mention the name of
Alphonso d'Alvarada?'

'Never. Though I feel for Agnes an affection truly fraternal,
circumstances have prevented us from being much together. While yet a
Child She was consigned to the care of her Aunt, who had married a
German Nobleman. At his Castle She remained till two years since, when
She returned to Spain, determined upon secluding herself from the
world.'

'Good God! Lorenzo, you knew of her intention, and yet strove not to
make her change it?'

'Marquis, you wrong me. The intelligence, which I received at Naples,
shocked me extremely, and I hastened my return to Madrid for the
expr