Pagina 190 di 1118

"Converted, cousin, converted, I tell you; I rejoice at it; it

will be a fine spectacle to see you penitent, with your eyes cast

down! And how flattering to the father! he don't catch such fish

every day. Be assured, he will bring you forward as an example to

others; your actions will be trumpeted from the pulpit!"

"Enough, enough!" interrupted Don Roderick, half annoyed, and

half disposed to laugh. "I will double the wager with you, if you

please."

"The devil! perhaps you have converted the father!"

"Do not speak of him; but as to the wager, San Martin will

decide." The curiosity of the count was aroused; he made many

enquiries, which Don Roderick evaded, referring him to the day of

decision.