Lorenzo interrupted him.
'Excuse me, my Lord,' said He with a distant air, 'if I reply somewhat coldly to your expressions of regard.

A Sister's honour is involved in this affair: Till that is established, and the purport of your correspondence with Agnes cleared up, I cannot consider you as my Friend.

I am anxious to hear the meaning of your conduct, and hope that you will not delay the promised explanation.' 'First give me your word, that you will listen with patience and indulgence.' 'I love my Sister too well to judge her harshly; and till this moment I possessed no Friend so dear to me as yourself.

I will also confess, that your having it in your power to oblige me in a business which I have much at heart, makes me very anxious to find you still deserving my esteem.' 'Lorenzo, you transport me! No greater pleasure can be given me, than an opportunity of serving the Brother of Agnes.' 'Convince me that I can accept your favours without dishonour, and there is no Man in the world to whom I am more willing to be obliged.' 'Probably, you have already heard your Sister mention the name of Alphonso d'Alvarada ?' 'Never.

Though I feel for Agnes an affection truly fraternal, circumstances have prevented us from being much together.