o all the officers
of the household, and the amazement of every one may easily be
conceived. Every trifling circumstance was discussed, but nothing
satisfactory elucidated, save that every individual, either as his
interest was concerned, or his curiosity unsatisfied, loudly exclaimed
against a change which interfered so much with his profit or pleasure.

CHAPTER XI.

Ambition, like a torrent, ne'er looks back;
It is a swelling, and the last affection
A high mind can put off. It is a rebel
Both to the soul and reason, and enforces
All laws, all conscience; treads upon religion,
And offers violence to Nature's self.

Ben Jonson.

Gomez Arias, after his interview with Leonor, repaired to the place
where he had appointed his confidential valet to await his leisure. Upon
his way he met the diligent Roque, and briefly related to him the
success which had hitherto attended his operations.

"My good Roque," he gaily exclaimed, "our path now seems clear, and we
have nothing to impede our course."

"Aye, Senor," returned Roque, "so it appears; but God grant that our
course may not yet be obstructed. When he who walketh uprightly must see
that he stumbleth not, what chance have we?"

"Well," cried his master, laughing, "in such a case mind thou art not in
my way; for assuredly my fall will entail upon thee some sore bruises."

"Bless me, good Senor," cried the valet, jocosely, "do what I may, I
cannot guard myself from such peril; for, by some unaccountable
mischance, when you _do_ fall, I am sure to reap the disagreeable
results: however, may the saints protect us in all lawful enterprise,
and, certes, there is no stronger law than necessity."

"Oh, Heavens!" exclaimed Don Lope, at this moment, "Roque--look! who is
that cavalier in the distance?"

Roque looked as he was ordered, but could perceive nothing that might
call for such an exclamation.

"Senor," said he, surprised, "what causes your alarm?"

"Is not that _caballero_ going towards our mansion?"

"He may--but what is there strange in that?"

"Surely it is the Count Urena!"

"He looks very much like him."

"Then I am undone! Run, Roque; dispatch! Detain him."

And without further ceremony, by the smart application of his hand to
the back of the valet, he gave an additional impetus to the motives for
increased exertion, whilst he himself advanced at a brisk pace towards
the object that h