Lorenzo’s astonishment increased with every succeeding moment. Raymond advanced towards him, but with a look of suspicion he drew back his hand, which the other was preparing to take.

“You here, Marquis? What is the meaning of all this? You engaged in a clandestine correspondence with my sister, whose affections.⁠ ⁠…”

“Have ever been, and still are mine. But this is no fit place for an explanation. Accompany me to my hotel, and you shall know everything. Who is that with you?”

“One whom I believe you to have seen before,” replied Don Christoval, “though probably not at church.”

“The Condé d’Ossorio?”

“Exactly so, Marquis.”

“I have no objection to entrusting you with my secret, for I am sure that I may depend upon your silence.”