en added, turning to his major-domo, a long, thin, grave
looking personage, "mind that these cavaliers," pointing to Don
Antonio's attendants, "are well entertained."

Then taking his relative by the hand, he led him into the mansion.

"Theodora," he then resumed, "is as yet at her morning orisons, in the
company of good Martha, but on an occasion like the present, there would
be no great sin in shortening her devotions."

"By no means," replied Don Antonio, smiling; "it is not my maxim to
disturb fair ladies when so laudably occupied."

"Well, my young friend, as you please; but, good heavens!" continued he,
surveying his guest from head to foot, with much complacency, "how you
are altered! It is a goodly and consoling sight to see the improvement
a few years bestow on a young man. You have distinguished yourself at
the games," said Don Manuel; "this is a source of unspeakable joy to me,
the more so, as it appears that the queen has been pleased to reward
your merit. I have heard that you are entrusted with the command of a
party of those gallant men, that are destined to chastise the rebellious
Moors of the Alpujarras."

"In truth," modestly answered Don Antonio, "our great queen has
condescended to honor me far above my deserts; but I trust that my
future conduct will make me worthy of the confidence she has reposed in
me."

"I suppose, then," said Don Manuel, "that your stay at Guadix will be
but short?"

"Very short; as I am only allowed to wait the arrival of my party, and
must then set off immediately to join the army under the command of the
noble Aguilar."

"Then, my dear kinsman," observed Monteblanco, smiling, "the object of
your visit must be accomplished without further delay."

"I shall never complain of too much expedition when the happiness of my
life is so intimately concerned."

At this moment the door of the saloon was thrown open, and Theodora was
ceremoniously ushered in by the stately duenna, who, after making a
stiff and formal courtsey, sunk back, and kept a respectful distance.

"Dear child," said Don Manuel, "here is your kinsman, Don Antonio de
Leyva, with whom you are already acquainted. He appears in our house as
best becomes a gallant knight; his brow adorned with the wreath of
triumph for the skill and prowess he has displayed in the games, a sure
omen of his future glory in the field."

Theodora offered her hand to the salutation of her kinsman, with an
attempt at cordialit