'But one word,--I already anticipate what it must be; but let the blow fall--anything is better than this uncertainty.' "'The general and the staff have passed the gate, sir,' said my servant at this moment.
"'Are my horses ready ?' "'At the door, sir; and the baggage gone forward.' "I gave Inez one look-- "'Did you say more coffee ?' said she, smiling.
"I bowed coldly, and rose from the table.

They all assembled upon the terrace to see me ride away.
"'You'll let us hear from you,' said Don Emanuel.
"'And pray don't forget the letter to my brother,' cried old Madame Forjas.
"Twenty similar injunctions burst from the party, but not a word said Inez.
"'Adieu, then!' said I.'Farewell.' "'Adios! Go with God!' chorused the party.
"'Good-by, Senhora,' said I.'Have _you_ nothing to tell me ere we part ?' "'Not that I remember,' said she, carelessly.

'I hope you'll have good weather.' "'There is a storm threatening,' said I, gloomily.
"'Well, a soldier cares little for a wet jacket.' "'Adieu!' said I, sharply, darting at her a look that spoke my meaning.
"'Farewell!' repeated she, curtsying slightly, and giving one of her sweetest smiles.
"I drove the spurs into my horse's flanks, but holding him firmly on the curb at the same moment, instead of dashing forward, he bounded madly in the air.
"'What a pretty creature!' said she, as she turned towards the house; then stopping carelessly, she looked round,-- "'Should you like this bouquet ?' "Before I could reply, she disengaged it from her belt, and threw it towards me.

The door closed behind her as she spoke.

I galloped on to overtake the staff, _et voila tout_.