bold curl of
her lip. A slight tincture of hauteur was likewise occasionally to be
detected, through the affability of manner by which she was
characterized; and in the very tone of her voice, even when attuned to
the softest expressions of kindness and regard, there was a chord that
vibrated upon the ear, which told of conscious superiority and masculine
genius. Yet these peculiarities were favorable to the commanding style
of her beauty, and served to heighten the impression which her natural
attractions could not fail to produce.

"But come," said Leonor, after the first salutations, and when Theodora
felt a little reassured; "come, I must introduce you to the grand
saloon, where some of the first nobility of Spain are now assembled: I
am sure," she added with a smile, "those gallant knights will be greatly
beholden to me for bringing so lovely an addition to their society."

"Your kind flattery," replied Theodora, "would certainly arouse a
feeling of vanity, if any such, alas! still lingered in my heart; but at
present sad recollections too severely oppress me to render society
desirable: besides, I should feel myself lost amidst so brilliant an
assemblage."

"Well," continued Leonor, "I will not impose any exertion upon my fair
guest that may not accord with the present state of her mind; let us,
however, hope that her sorrows are not so deeply rooted but that, in the
kindness of her friends, she may soon find some alleviation. Yet," she
added, "if you will not join in our festivities, you will at least be
able to witness them, without inconvenience, from your casement. The
grand procession will presently move towards the cathedral, to return a
solemn thanksgiving for the successes of the Christian arms. The queen
will shortly leave her palace, attended with the flower of Spanish
warriors, and all the rank and beauty of Granada. And now, my gentle
friend," she continued in a kind tone, "I shall be obliged for a time to
leave you, as my attendance on the queen is absolutely required."

She then appointed two of her maids to attend on her guest, and renewing
her assurances of regard and friendship, she retired, leaving the
unfortunate daughter of Monteblanco deeply impressed with gratitude and
admiration.

Upon the departure of Leonor, Theodora drew near the window, and gazed
on the moving multitude below. The increased clamour of the populace,
and an unusual hurrying to and fro, together with the tolling of the