After having waited in vain, for a long time, he returned to the room, and
said to the gentleman: "Signor, my master begs you to excuse him for a while. He is engaged
transacting some business with the merchant of whom he spoke to you
yesterday. They are preparing a writing for you. Have the kindness to wait
a few moments."
He now thought that Geronimo would, of his own accord, take the arm-chair,
and with a beating heart he observed his movements. But he was
disappointed, for the young cavalier stood at the window, gazing
thoughtfully into the garden.
Although Julio knew with what mistrust and impatience his master was
counting each passing moment, he said to Geronimo, with assumed
indifference: "It is at least half a mile from the Dominican Convent to this place, and
you must be fatigued after your walk. Will you not rest in this arm-chair,
signor?"
"No, I thank you. I am not in the least fatigued. I love to look at those
beautiful trees clothed in their fresh May verdure."
An involuntary movement of impatience escaped the servant.
"You need not remain here on my account, Julio," said Geronimo. "Go to
your work; I will stay alone."
"I have no urgent occupation, signor. If I still remain, contrary to your
wish, it is to ask you a question; and yet I fear that you will be
displeased at my boldness."
"Not at all, Julio. Can I render you any service? It will give me pleasure
to show my gratitude for the courage with which you defended me when I was
attacked by the ruffians."
"I had no reference to that. I heard you were about to marry the beautiful
Miss Van de Werve. The news rejoiced me; but may your humble servant make
free to ask you if it be true?"
The name of his betrothed flushed his cheek with joy, and he answered,
with a smile: "Yes, Julio, it is true."
"How blessed you are, signor!"
"Yes, Julio, God has bestowed upon me the greatest earthly blessing, for
which I shall eternally thank him. On the solemn day of our nuptials you
will have cause to rejoice."
"I, signor?"
"Yes, you, Julio. Miss Van de Werve wishes to recompense you herself for
the assistance you gave me against Bufferio and his comrades. The day of
my marriage you will receive a new cloak, a new doublet, new small-clothes
of fine cloth and silk, such as a servant has never worn."