Get you gone, you sleepy dog." He either struck or kicked the man, hurrying the fellow down the passage to the echo of Spanish oaths.

Apparently no resistance was made, for the next instant the key turned in the lock and the door opened.

Cateras, smiling, seemingly unruffled by this encounter, stepped within, calmly closed the door behind him, and then turned to greet the lady.

She met his bow with eyes of firm resolve, though her heart ached.
"Why do you come, _senor_ ?" she asked so quietly that the man in surprise halted his step forward.
"To keep my word," and his white teeth gleamed in an effort at pleasantness.

"I am always truthful with your sex; and I told you I would return shortly." "Yet why ?" she insisted, anxious only to keep him away as long as possible, and yet enchain his interest.