cannot be otherwise, if we would continue to look upon each other as
a soldier and a nobleman." "True!" replied Fadrique, and they
hastened to reach a distant part of the garden, where the sound of
their clashing swords could not reach the gay hall of betrothal they
had left.




CHAPTER XVIII.



Secret and inclosed, with blooming shrubs planted around, with not a
sound to be heard of the merry company, nor of the animated streets
of the city, with the full moon shining overhead and brightening the
solemn circle with its clear brilliancy--such was the spot. The two
captains unsheathed their gleaming swords and stood opposite each
other, ready for the encounter. But before they began the combat a
nobler feeling drew them to each other's arms; they lowered their
weapons and embraced in the most fraternal manner. They then tore
themselves away and the fearful contest began.

They were now no longer brothers-in-arms, no longer friends, no
longer brothers-in-law, who directed their sharp steels against each
other. With the most resolute boldness, but with the coolest
collectedness, each fell upon his adversary, guarding his own breast
at the same time. After a few hot and dangerous passes the
combatants were obliged to rest, and during the pause they regarded
each other with increased love, each rejoicing to find his comrade so