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myself in a young nobleman's power! No, no; I have as yet preserved my reputation without blemish or reproach, and I always knew how to keep the men at a proper distance."
"Of that, Segnora, I have not the least doubt. But permit me to ask you, Have you then any aversion to matrimony?"
"That is an home question. I cannot but confess, that if an amiable cavalier was to present himself———"
Here she intended to throw a tender and significant look upon Don Christoval; but, as she unluckily happened to squint most abominably, the glance fell directly upon his companion. Lorenzo took the compliment to himself, and answered it by a profound bow.
"May I enquire," said he, "the name of the marquis?"
"The marquis de las Cisternas."
"I know him intimately well. He is not at present in Madrid, but is expected here daily. He is one of the best of men;and
