The question rather startled the Englishman, for the only answer
seemed to be that he had quitted England in order to come to Ronda
and to her, following the path in life that fate had assigned to
him.

'We have troubles in England also--political troubles,' he said,
after a pause.

'The Chartists,' said the General cheerfully. 'We know all about
them, for we have the English newspapers. I procure them in order
to have reliable news of Spain.'

He broke off with a little laugh, and looked towards his daughter.

'In the evening Estella reads them to me. And it was on account of
the Chartists that you left England?'

'Yes.'

'Ah, you are a Chartist, Mr. Conyngham.'

'Yes,' admitted the Englishman after a pause, and he glanced at
Estella.



CHAPTER VII. IN A MOORISH GARDEN.