senor, suspect not that my purpose is unfriendly; you see I have no
arms, while you wear both rapier and dagger. I merely wish to say a
few words on a matter of deep import to yourself."

"Your name, senor," replied the other, "methinks should precede any
communication you have to make me, would you secure my confidence."

"My name, senor, I cannot disclose."

"Umph! a somewhat strange adventure!" muttered the young cavalier.
"However, friend, since such you purport to be, say your say, and that
right briefly, for I have affairs of urgency on my hands."

"Briefly, then, senor. You have cast your eyes on the daughter of
Antonio Perez, the rich goldsmith?"

"That is my affair, methinks," replied the cavalier, haughtily. "By
what right do you interfere with it? Are you brother or relative of
the fair Magdalena?"

"Neither, senor; but I take a deep interest in your affairs; and I
warn you, if your heart be not irretrievably involved, to withdraw
from the prosecution of your addresses. To my certain knowledge,
Magdalena is beloved by another."

"What of that, man? A fair field and no favor, is all I ask."

"But what if _she_ loves another?"

"Ha!" exclaimed the cavalier. "Can she be sporting with me?--playing