demn me,--all a mistake, through perhaps extravagant gallantry and
compliment. I lingered here, oblivious perhaps of--er--beauty, in
the enjoyment of Nature.

Dona Jovita. Is there enough for your Excellency to share with me,
since it must be my rival? See, the fog is clearing away: we shall
have moonlight. (DON JOSE and MORTON seat themselves at table.)
Shall we not let these venerable caballeros enjoy their confidences
and experiences together? (Aside.) Don Jose watches me like a
fox, does not intend to lose sight of me. How shall I show the
light three times from the courtyard roof? I have it! (Takes
STARBOTTLE'S arm.) It is too pleasant to withdraw. There is a
view from the courtyard wall your Excellency should see. Will you
accompany me? The ascent is easy.

Starbottle (bowing). I will ascend, although, permit me to say,
Dona Jovita, it would be--er--impossible for me to be nearer--er--
heaven, than--er--at present.

Dona Jovita. FLATTERER! Come, you shall tell me about this sad
lady who died. Ah, Don Culpepero, let me hope all your experiences
will not be so fatal to us!

[Exeunt DONA JOVITA and STARBOTTLE.

Morton (aside). A froward daughter of Baal, and, if I mistake not,
even now concocting mischief for this foolish, indulgent, stiff-
necked father. (Aloud.) Your only daughter, I presume.

Don Jose. My darling, Don Alexandro. Motherless from her infancy.