And that I do not resent the affront put upon me in your dishonourable proposal, must be set down to the obligations you have imposed upon me, and which tie up my hands.

But we are now quits; and if any further indignity be offered me, it will not be so lightly borne." "_Perdone, vuestra merced_!--we are not quits," cried De Gondomar quickly.

"The account between us is far from settled; nor will I rest content till you have paid me in full.

But we had better break off this interview," he added, more calmly, "since no good is like to result from it.

It is useless to reason with you; but you are wantonly throwing away a fairer opportunity than falls to the lot of most men, and will see your folly when too late." "In taking my leave of your Excellency, as there are no terms henceforth to be observed between us, except those of hostility, I deem it right to state, that though I shall make no especial reference to yourself, I shall hold it my duty to acquaint his Majesty with the system of _espionage_ introduced into the palace; and, above all, I shall take care to guard the Prince against the insidious snares laid for him." "It is a pity so faithful a councillor as yourself should not be listened to," rejoined De Gondomar.