-

"Pardon me, Don Lope, but I hope that in the premeditated disposal of
this troublesome commodity, you do not mean to use any violence; for the
Lord knows that the poor lady is already but too deserving of
compassion."

"Thou art an impertinent, officious fool, Roque."

"That may be," coolly retorted the valet. "But be pleased to observe,
that from the very commencement of this adventure--from the very first
moment that you poured your sweet poison into the ear of this innocent
young creature, I strenuously set my face against such proceeding;
something whispered to me, that it would ultimately be productive of the
most disastrous results; time will show that forebodings are sometimes
to be credited. So be pleased to recollect, Senor, how often I
remonstrated with you about this melancholy business."

"I do, Roque; and I suppose you likewise recollect what you gained by
your eloquent remonstrances?"

"Oh, Sir," replied Roque, "favors they were, so deeply engraven, that it
would be difficult to efface them from my remembrance."

"Well," continued Gomez Arias, "know, Roque, that I am at this time just
in a humor to treat you with a renewal of such like favors, if you do
not immediately put a stop to your droning and most impertinent
reminiscences. I do not ask your condolence and regret for what is past,
for that now cannot be remedied. I want thy shrewdness and invention to
aid me in the present emergency. Violence I will not employ, so let your
scruples be at rest. I must now see Don Alonso, and prepare the way for
ulterior plans. Roque, I recommend thee to preserve a strict silence on
the matter, if thou art not entirely disgusted with life. Now
begone,--and meet me two hours hence at the _Plaza Nueva_."

Roque made a low bow of assent and withdrew; whilst Gomez Arias,
assuming as much resolution as the importance of the occasion demanded,
left his apartment to meet Don Alonso de Aguilar. Scarcely had he
quitted his chamber than he beheld, with no little emotion, the bustle
and activity which prevailed over the whole palace, on account of the
expected festivities of the day. Here were maids, in fine attire,
tripping gaily along, simpering and smiling, and all good nature and
amiability. There ran servants in gorgeous dresses parading about in
their respective departments, and assuming importance in proportion to
the degree of responsibility which they were to take at the festival;
and handsome pages were seen