 Chapter 16 of The Spanish Brothers by Debra Alcock, this is a LibriVox recording, all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Chapter 16 Welcome Home We are so unlike each other, thou and I, that none would guess, we were children of one mother, but for mutual tenderness. E.B. Browning After the first tumult of greeting, in which affection was expressed rather by look and gesture than by word, the brothers sat down and talked. Iger questions rose to the lip of both, but especially those of Carlos, whose surprise at one's unexpected appearance only equaled his delight. But you are wounded, my brother. He said, Not seriously, I hope. Oh no, only a bullet through my arm, a piece of my usual good luck. I got it in the battle. No adjective was needed to specify the glorious day of Saint Quentin, when Flemish Eggmont's chivalrous courage, seconded by Castilian bravery, gained for King Philip such a brilliant victory over the arms of France. Carlos knew the story already from public sources, and it did not occur to one, nor indeed to Carlos either, that there had ever been or ever would be again a battle so worthy of being held in everlasting remembrance. But do you count the wound part of your good luck? Asked Carlos. I, truly, and well I may. It has brought me home, as you ought to have known ere this. I received but two letters from you, that written on your first arrival and dated from Cambrai, and that which told of your notable prize the French prisoner. But I wrote two others. One, I entrusted to a soldier who was coming home invalid. I suppose the fellow lost it. The other, written just after the great Saint Lawrence's day, arrived in Sevilla the night before I made my own appearance there. His majesty will need to look to his posts. Sertes, there are the slowest caries to be found in any Christian country. And Juan's merry laugh rang through the convent parlor, little enough used to echo such sounds. So I've heard almost nothing of you, brother, save what could be gathered from the public accounts. Carlos continued. All the better now. I have only such news as is pleasant for me to tell, and will not be ill, I think, for thee to hear. First, then, and in due order, I am promised my company. Good news indeed! My brother must have honoured our name by some special deed of valor. Was it at Saint Quentin? Asked Carlos, looking at him with honest brotherly pride. He was not much changed by his campaign, except that his dark cheek were a deeper bronze, and his face was adorned with a formidable pair of bigotes. That story must wait. Returned Juan. I have so much else to tell thee. Dost thou remember how I said, as a boy, that I should take a noble prisoner like Alfonso Vives, and enrich myself by his ransom? And thou seest I have done it. In a good day. Still he was not the Duke of Saxony. Like him, at least, in being a heretic or Huguenot, if that be a less unsavory word to utter in these holy precincts. Moreover, he is a tried and trusted officer of Admiral Cologne's suite. It was that day when the admiral so gallantly threw himself into the besieged town. And, for my part, I am heartily obliged to him. But for his presence, there would have been no defense of Saint Quentin to speak of at all. But for the defense, no battle, but for the battle, no grand victory for the Spains and King Philip. We cut off half of the admiral's troops, however, and it fell to my lot to save the life of a brave French officer whom I saw fighting alone against a crowd. He gave me his sword, and I led him to my tent, and provided him with all the solace and succor I could, for he was sorely wounded. He was the siro de Ramané, a gentleman of provenance, and an honest, merry-hearted valiant man. As it was ever my lot to meet with all, he shared my bed and board, a pleasant guest rather than a prisoner, until we took the town making the admiral himself our captive, as you know already. By that time, his brother had raised the sum for his ransom and sent it honorably to me. But, in any case, I should have dismissed him on parole as soon as his wounds were healed. He was pleased to give me, beside the good gold pistols, this diamond ring you see on my finger, in a token of friendship. Carlos took the costly trinket in his hand and duly admired it. He did not fail to gather from one simple narrative many things that he told not, and was little likely to tell. In the time of action, chivalrous daring. When the conflict was over, gentleness and generosity no less chivalrous, endearing him to all, even the vanquished enemy. No wonder Carlos was proud of his brother. But, between all the pride and joy there was, even already, a secret whisper of fear. How could he bear to see that noble brow clouded with anger, those bright confiding eyes averted from him in disdain? Turning his own thoughts as if they had been guilty things, he asked quickly, But how did you obtain leave of absence? Through the kindness of his highness. The Duke of Savoy? Of course, and a braver general I would never ask to serve. I thought it might have been from the king himself when he came to the camp after the battle. Don Juan's cheat glowed with modest triumph. His highness was good enough to point me out to his Catholic majesty. He's sad. And the king spoke to me himself. It is difficult for us to understand how a few formal words of praise from the lips of one of the meanest and vilest of men could be looked upon by the really noble hearted Don Juan Alvarez as almost the crowning joy of his life. With the enthusiastic loyalty of his age and country, he honored Philip the king. Philip the man being all the time a personage as utterly unknown to him as the Sultan of Turkey. But not choosing to expatiate on a theme so flattering to himself, he continued, The Duke contrived to send me home with despatches saying kindly that he thought my wound required a little rest and care. Though I had affairs of importance. And here the color mounted to his brow. To settle in Sevilla, I would not have quitted the campaign with my good will had we been about any enterprise likely to give us fair fighting. But in truth, Carlos, things have been abundantly dull since the fall of Saint Quentin. Though we have our king with us and Henry of France and the Duke of Guise have both joined the enemy, all are standing at gaze as if they were frozen and doomed to stay there motionless till the day of judgment. I have no mind for that kind of sport, not I. I became a soldier to fight his Catholic Majesty's battles, not to stare at his enemies as if they were puppets paid to make a show for my amusement. So I was not sorry to take leave of absence. And your important business in Sevilla? May a brother ask what that means? A brother may ask what he pleases and be answered. Wish me joy, Carlos. I've arranged that little matter with Dona Beatrice. And his light words half hid, half revealed the great deep joy of his own strong heart. My uncle, he continued, is favorable to my views. Indeed, I've never known him so friendly. We are to have our betrothal feasts at Christmas when your time of retreat here is over. Carlos. Wish him joy. Most sincerely. Fervently did he thank God that it was in his power to do it, that the snare that had once wound itself so subtly around his footsteps was broken and his soul escaped. He could now meet his brother's eye without self-approach. Still, this seemed sudden. He said, Certainly you did not lose time. Why should I? Twan, with simplicity. By and by is always too late, as Thou would want to say, and I would they learn that proverb at the camp. In truth, He added more gravely. I often feared during my stay there that I might have lost all through my tardiness, but Thou were to good brother to me, Carlos. Mayest thou ever think so, brother mine? Said Carlos, not without a pang, as his conscience told him how little he deserved the praise. But what in the world? Asked Juan hastily. Has induced thee to bury thyself here amongst these drowsy monks? The brethren are excellent men, learned in pious, and I am not buried. Carlos returned with a smile. And if thou wert buried ten fathoms deep, thou shouldest come up out of the grave when I need thee to stand beside me. Do not fear for that. Now thou art come, I will not prolong my stay here, as otherwise I might have done, but I have been very happy here, Juan. I'm glad to hear it. Said the merry-hearted, unsuspecting Juan. I am glad also that you are not in too great haste to tie yourself down to the church's service. Though our honoured uncle seems to wish you had a keener eye to your own interest and a better look out for your fat benefices. But I believe his own sons have appropriated all the stock of worldly prudence meant for the whole family, leaving none over for thee and me, Carlos. That is true of Dan Manuel and Dan Balthazar, not of Gonçalvo. Gonçalvo? He's the worst of the three. Juan exclaimed, with something like anger in his open, sunny face. Carlos laughed. I suppose he has been favouring you with his opinion of me. He said, If he were not a poor, miserable, weakling and a cripple, I should answer him with the point of my good sword. However, this is idle talk, little brother. Carlos being as nearly tall as himself, the diminutive was only a term of affection, recalling the days of their childhood and more suited to masculine lips than its equivalent, dear. Little brother, you look grave and pale, and ten years older than when we parted at El Calda. Do I? Much has happened with me since. I've been very sorrowful and very happy. Dan Juan laid his available hand on his brother's shoulder and looked him earnestly in the face. No secrets from me, little brother. He said, If thou dost not like the service of holy church after all, speak out, and thou shall go back with me to France or to anywhere else in the known world that thou wilt. There may be some fair lady in the case. He added with a keen and searching glance. No brother, not that I have indeed much to tell thee, but not now, not today. Choose thine own time, only remember no secrets. That were the one unbrotherly act I could never forgive. But I'm not satisfied about your wound. Said Carlos, with perhaps a little moral cowardice, turning the conversation. Was the bone broken? No, fortunately, only grazed. It would not have signified, but for the treatment of the blundering barber surgeon. I was advised to show it to some man of skill, and already my cousins have recommended to me one who is both physician and surgeon and very able, they say. Dr. Cristobal Lozada? The same. Your favorite, Don Gonzalvo, has just been prevailed upon to make trial of his skill. I am heartily glad of it. Returned, Carlos. There is a change of mind on his part equal to anywhere with he can reproach me in a change for the better I have little doubt. Thus the conversation wandered on, touching many subjects, exhausting none, and never again drawing dangerously near those deep places which one of the brothers knew must be thoroughly explored, and that at no distant day. For one's sake, for the sake of one whom he loved even more than one, he dared not, nay he would not avoid the task, but he needed, or thought he needed, consideration and prayer that he might speak the truth wisely, as well as bravely to that beloved brother. End of Chapter 16. Chapter 17 of the Spanish Brothers by Deborah Alcock. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Chapter 17 Disclosures. No distance breaks the tie of blood. Brothers are brothers evermore, nor wrong nor wrath of deadliest mood that magic may o'erpower. Keeble. The opportunity for free converse with his brother, which Carlos desired, yet dreaded, was unexpectedly postponed. It would have been in accordance, neither with the ideas of the time, nor with his own feelings, to have shortened his period of retreat in the monastery, though he would not now prolong it. And though Don Juan did not fail to make his appearance upon every day when visitors were admitted, he was always accompanied by either of his cousins, Don Manuel or Don Balthazar, or Raibo. These shallow, worldly-minded young men were little likely to allow for the many things in which strangers might not intermeddle that brother's long-parted might find to say to each other. They only thought that they were conferring a high honor on their poor relatives by their favor and notice. In their presence, the conversation was necessarily confined to the incidents of Juan's campaign and to family matters. Whether Don Balthazar would obtain a post he was seeking under government, whether Donia Sanchez would inevitably bestow the inestimable favor of her hand upon Don Beltran, Vivares, or Dono Lanzo de Grón, and whether the disappointed student would grab himself or a successful rival. These were questions of which Carlos soon grew heartily weary. But in all that concerned Beatrix, he was deeply interested. Whatever he may once have allowed himself to fancy about the sentiments of a very young and childish girl, he never dreamed that she would make or even desire to make any opposition to the expressed wish of her guardian, who destined her for Juan. He was sure that she would learn quickly enough to love his brother as he deserved, and it gave him pleasure that his sacrifice had not been in vain, that the wine cup of joy which he had just tasted, then put steadily aside, was being drained to the drakes by the lips he loved best. It is true this pleasure was not unmixed with pain, but the pain was less than a few months ago he would have believed possible. The wound which he once thought deadly was in process of being healed. Nay, it was nearly healed already, but the scar would always remain. Rand and Mighty, but perplexing and mournful thoughts were filling his heart every day more and more. Amongst the subjects eagerly and continually discussed with the brethren of San Isodro, the most prominent just now was the sole priesthood of Christ, with the impossibility of his one perfect and sufficient sacrifice being ever repeated. But these truths in themselves so glorious had for those who dared to admit them one terrible consequence. Their full acknowledgement would transform the main author's consummation, the sacrifice of the mass, from the highest act of Christian worship into a hideous lie dishonoring to God and ruinous to man. To this conclusion the monks of San Isodro were drawing nearer slowly but surely every day, and Carlos was side by side with the most advanced of them in the path of progress. Though timid in action he was bold in speculation, to his keen, quick intellect to think and to reason was a necessity. He could not rest content with the surface truths, to believe any manner in which he was interested without probing it to its depths. But as far at least as the monks were concerned, the conclusion now imminent was practically a most momentous one. It must transform the light that illumined them into a fire that would burn and torture the hands that held the child to conceal it. They could only guard themselves from loss and injury, perhaps from destruction, by setting it on the candlestick of a true and faithful profession. Better, said the brethren to one another. This plan was popular with the community though there were some that objected to it, not because of the loss of worldly wealth it would entail, but because of its extreme difficulty and the peril in which it would involve others. That the question might be fully discussed and some course of action resolved upon, the monks of San Isodro convened a solemn chapter. Carlos had not, of course, the right to be present, though his friends would certainly inform him immediately afterwards of all that passed. So he wowed away part of the anxious hours by a walk in the orange grove belonging to the monastery. It was now December and there had been a frost, not very usual in that mild climate. Every blade of grass was gemmed with tiny jewels, which were crushed by his footsteps as he passed along. He fancied them like the fair and sparkling but unreal dreams of the creed in which he had been nurtured. They must perish, even should he weakly turn aside to spare them. God's son would not fail here long to dissolve them with the warmth of his beams. But wherefore mourn them? Would not the sun shine on still and the blue sky, the emblem of eternal love still stretch above his head? Therefore he would look up, up and not down. Forgetting the things that were behind and reaching forth to those that were before, he would faint press forward toward the mark for the prize. And then his heart went up in fervent prayer that not only he himself but also all those who shared his faith might be unable to do so. Turning into a path leading back through the grove to the monastery, he saw his brother coming toward him. He said, Don Juan. And always welcome. But why so early? On a Friday too. Wherein is Friday worse than Thursday? Asked Juan with a laugh. You were not a monk or even a novice to be bound by rules so strict that you may not say vaya con Dios to your brother without asking leave of my Lord Abbot. Carlos had often noticed, not with this pleasure, the freedom which won since his return had assumed in speaking of churchmen sentences. He answered, I am only bound by the general rules of the house to which it is seemingly that visitors should conform. Today the brethren are holding a chapter to confer upon matters pertaining to their discipline. I cannot well bring you indoors but we do not need a better parlor than this. True, I care for no roof save God's sky and as for glazed and graded windows I have whore them. Born into prison, I should die in a week. I made an early start for San Ysidro for an unusual day to get rid of the company of my excellent but tiresome cousins. For, in truth, I am sick unto death of their talk and their courtesies. Moreover, I have ten thousand things to tell you, brother. I have a few for your ear also. Let us sit down. Here is a pleasant seat which some of your brethren can try to rest their weary limbs and enjoy the prospect. They know how to be comfortable, these monks. They sat down accordingly. For more than an hour Don Juan was the chief speaker and as he spoke out of the abundance of his heart it was no wonder that the name often is on his lips without a donor Beatrice. Of the long and circumstantial story that he poured into the sympathizing ear of Carlos no more than this is necessary to repeat that Beatrice not only did not reject him, no well-bred Spanish girl would behave in such a singular manner to be recommended by her guardian, but actually looked kindly, nay, even smiled upon him. His exhilaration was in consequence extreme and its expression might have proved tevious to any listener not deeply interested in his welfare. At last, however, the subject was dismissed. So my path lies clear and plain before me said Juan, his fine determined face glowing with resolution and hope. A soldier's life with his toils and prizes and a happy home at Nuerra with a sweet face to welcome me when I return. And sooner or later that voyage to the Indies. But you, Carlos, speak out, for I confess you perplex me. What do you wish and intend? Had you asked me that question a few months I might almost say a few weeks ago I should not have hesitated as now I do for an answer. You were ever willing, more than willing, for Holy Church's service. I know but one cause which could alter your mind and to the tender accusation you have be pleaded not guilty. The plea is a true one. Sertas, it cannot be that you have been seized with a sudden passion for a soldier's life. That was never your taste, little brother. And with all respect for you I scarce think your achievements with sword and archivist could be suddenly brilliant. But there is something wrong with you. He said in an altered tone as he gazed in his brother's anxious face. Not wrong, but... said Juan, joyously interrupting him. You are in debt. That is soon mended, brother. In fact, it is my fault. I have had far too large a share already of what should have been for both of us alike. In future... Hush, brother. I have always had enough, more than I needed and thou hast many expenses and wilt have more henceforward whilst I shall only want a doublet and a pair of shoes. And a cossack and gown? Carlos was silent. I vow it is a harder task to comprehend you than to chase Kalini's guard with my single arm. And you so pious, so good a Christian. If you were a dull, rough soldier like me and if you had a Huguenot prisoner and a very fine fellow, too, to share your bed and board for months one could comprehend you are not liking certain things over well or even. And Juan averted his face and lowered his voice. You're having certain evil thoughts fiercely care to breathe in the ears of your father-confessor. Brother, I too have had thoughts. Said Carlos eagerly. But Juan suddenly tossed off his manturo and ran his fingers through his black glossy hair. In old times this gesture used to be a sign that he was going to speak seriously. After a moment he began, but with a little hesitation. For in fact he held the mind of Carlos in as true and unfeigned reverence as Carlos held his character. That is enough to say, without mentioning the additional respect with which he regarded him as almost a priest. Brother Carlos, you were good and pious. You were thus from childhood and therefore it is that you are fit for the service of Holy Church. You rise and go to rest. You read your books and tell your beads and you say your prayers all just as you are ordered. It is the best life for you and for any man who can live it and be content with it. You do not sin. You do not doubt. Therefore you will never come into any grief or trouble. But let me tell you, little brother, you have a scant notion what men meet with who go forth into the great world and fight their way in it. Seeing on every side of them things that take them as they may will not always square with the faith they have learned in childhood. Brother, I also have struggled and suffered. I also have doubted. Oh yes, a churchman's doubt. You had only to tell yourself doubt was a sin to make the sign of the cross to say an ave or two and then there was an end of your doubts. To a different matter if you had the evil one in the shape of an angel of light. At least that of a courteous, well-bred, Huguenot gentleman with as nice a sense of honor as any Catholic Christian at your side continuously to whisper that the priests are no better than they ought to be that the church needs reform. And heaven knows what more and worse beside. Now, my pious brother, if thou art going to curse me with bell, book and candle, begin it once. I am ready and prepared to be duly penitent. Let me first put on my cap, though, for it is cold. And he suited the action to the word. The voice in which Carlos answered him was low and tremulous with emotion. Instead of cursing thee, brother beloved, I bless thee from my heart for words which give me courage to speak. I have doubted. Nay, why should I shrink from the truth? I have learned as I believe from God himself that some things which the church teaches as doctrines are only the commandments of men. Done once started and his color changed. His vaguely liberal ideas were far from having prepared him for this. What do you mean? He cried, staring at his brother in amazement. That I am now in very truth what I think you would call a Huguenot. The die was cast. The avowal was made. Carlos waited its effects in breathless silence as one who has fired a power magazine might await the explosion. May all the holy saints have mercy upon us. He cried one in a voice that echoed through the grove, but after that one involuntary cry he was silent. The eyes of Carlos saw his face but he turned away from him. At last he muttered, striking with his sword at the trunk of a tree that was near him. Ah, Protestant, heretic. Brother! said Carlos, rising and standing before him. Brother, say what thou wilt only speak to me, reproach me, curse me, strike me, if it please they only speak to me. One turned, gazed full in his imploring face and slowly, very slowly allowed the sword to fall from his hand. There was a moment of doubt, of hesitation. Then he stretched out that hand to his brother. They who list may curse thee, but not I. He said, Carlos strained the offered hand in so close a grasp that his own was cut by his brother's diamond ring and the blood flowed. For a long time both were silent, one in amazement, perhaps in consternation, Carlos in deep thankfulness. His confession was made and his brother loved him still. At last one spoke, slowly and as if half bewildered. The seer de Ramané believes in God, in our Lord and his passion, and you Carlos repeated the Apostles Creed in the vulgar tongue. And in our Lady, Mary, mother of God, I believe that she was the most blessed among women, the holiest among the holy saints, yet I ask her intercession no more. I am too well assured of his love who says to me and to all who keep his word, my brother, my sister, my mother. I thought devotion to our Lady was the surest mark of piety. Said Juan, in utter perplexity. Then I am only a man of the world, but oh my brother, this is frightful. He paused a moment, then added more calmly. Still, I have learned the Huguenots are not beasts with horns and hooves, but possibly brave and honorable men enough as good for this world as their neighbors and yet the disgrace. His dark cheek flushed, then grew pale as there rose before his mind's eye in appalling vision. His brother robed in a hideous sandanito, bearing a torch in the ghastly procession of an auto-defe. You have kept your secret as your life? My uncle and his family suspect nothing? He asked anxiously. Nothing, thank God. And who taught you this accursed these doctrines? Carlos briefly told the story of his first acquaintance with the Spanish New Testament. Suppressing, however, all mention of the personal sorrow that had made its teaching so precious to him. Nor did he think it expedient to give the name of Juliano Hernandez. The church may need reform. I am sure she does. One candidly admitted. But Carlos, my brother... He added, while the expression of his face softened gradually into mournful, pitying tenderness. Little brother, in old times so gentle, so timid, has that dreamed of the peril? I speak not now of the disgrace. God, what is hard enough to think of? Hard enough? He repeated bitterly. But the peril? Carlos was silent. His hands were clasped. His eyes raised upwards, full of thought, perhaps of prayer. What is that on thy hand? Asked one, with a sudden change of tone. Blood? The Syriot de Ramané diamond ring has hurt thee. Carlos glanced at the little wound and smiled. I never felt it. He said, So glad was my heart, Roy, for that brave grasp of faithful brotherhood. And there was a strange light in his eye, as he added. Perchance it may be thus with me if Christ indeed should call me to suffer. Because I am he can give even to me such blessed assurance of his love that in the joy of it pain and fear shall be unfelt or vanish. One could not understand him, but he was odd and impressed. He had no heart for many words. He rose and walked toward the gate of the monastery grounds slowly and in silence. Carlos accompanying him. When they had nearly reached the spot where they were to part, Carlos said, You have heard Frey Constantino as I ask you? Yes, and I greatly admire him. He teaches God's truth. Why can't you not rest content with his teaching, then, instead of going to look for better bread than wheaten? Heaven knows where. When I return to the city next week I will explain all to thee. I hope so. In the meantime, adios. He strode on a pace or two, then turned back to say, Thou and I, Carlos, we will stand together against the world. End of Chapter 17 Chapter 18 of The Spanish Brothers by Deborah Alcock. This is a LibriVox recording. A LibriVox recording is in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Chapter 18. The Aged Monk I will not boast a martyr's might to leave my home without a sigh. The dwelling of my past delight, the shelter where I hope to die. Anon. Much was Carlos strengthened by the result of his interview with Don Juan. The thing that he greatly feared, his beloved brother's wrath and scorn had not come upon him. Juan had shown instead a moderation, a candor and a willingness to listen, which, while it really amazed him, inspired him with the happiest hopes. With a glad heart, he repeated this almost exalting words. The Lord is my strength and my shield. My heart hath trusted in him, and I am helped. Therefore my heart dances for joy, and in my song will I praise him. He soon perceived that the chapter was over, for figures robed in white and brown were moving here and there amongst the trees. He entered the house, and without happening to meet anyone, made his way to the deserted chapter room. Its sole remaining occupant was a very aged monk, the oldest member of the community. He was seated at the table, his face buried in his hands, and his frail, worn frame, quivering as if with sobs. Carlos went up to him and asked gently, Father, what ills you? The old man slowly raised his head and gazed at him with sad, tired eyes, which had washed the course of more than eighty years. My son, he said, If I weep, it is for joy. Carlos wondered, for he saw no joy on the wrinkled brow or in the tearful face, but he merely asked, What have the brethren resolved? To await God's providence here, for I used to be his holy name for that. And the old man bowed his silver head and wept once more. To Carlos also the determination was a cause for deep gratitude. He had all along regarded the proposed flight of the brethren with extreme dread, as an almost certain means of wakening the suspicions of the Holy Office, and as exposing all who shared their faith to destruction. It was no light matter and now at least postponed, always provided that the respite was purchased by no sacrifice of principle. Thank God, reiterated the old monk, For here I have lived, and here I will die and be buried beside the holy brethren of other days in the chapel of Don Alonso the Good. My son, I came hither as tripling as thou art. No, younger, younger. I could not know how many years ago, one year is so like another year is no telling. I could tell by looking at the great book, only my eyes are too dim to read it. They have grown dim very fast of late. When Dr. Gideas used to visit us, I could read my breviary with the youngest of them all. But no matter how many years, they were many enough to change a blooming black-haired boy into an old man doddering on the gravespring. And I should go forth now to the world beyond the gate. I had to look upon strange faces and to live amongst strange men or to die amongst them, for without I would come full soon. No, no, Senor Don Carlos. Here I duck the cowl, here I lived, and here I will die and be buried. God and the saints helping me. Yet for the truth's sake, my father, would you not be willing to make even this sacrifice and to go forth in your old age into exile? Brother and Muslimes go. So, I suppose, must die. But they are not going, Saint Jerome be praised. The old man repeated. Going or staying, the presence of him whom they serve and for whom they witness will be with them. It may be, it may be for all I know. But in my young days, so many fine words were not in use. We sang our matins, our complains, our respours. We said the holy mass in all our offices. But you did not have those days back again, would you, my father? You did not then know the glorious gospel of the grace of God. Gospel? Gospel? We always wrote the gospel for the day. I know my bravery, young sir, just as well as another. And on festival days, someone always preached from the gospel. When freight and mingle preached plenty of great folks used to come out from the city to year. But in his time, as for the grace of all is now, but they are forgotten in all of them. So will we in a few years to come. Carlos reproached himself for having named the gospel instead of him whose words and work are the burden of the gospel story. For even to that dull ear, heavy with age, the name of Jesus was sweet and that dull mind, drowsy with the slumber of a long lifetime, had half-awake at least to the consciousness of his love. Dear father. He said gently. I know you are well acquainted with the gospels. You remember what our blessed Lord saith of those who confess him before man, how he will not be ashamed to confess them before his father in heaven. And moreover, is it not a joy for us to show in any way he points out to us our love to him who loved us and gave himself for us? Yes. Yes, we love him. I only wish to do what is right and what is pleasing in his sight. Afterwards, Carlos talked over the events of the day with the younger and more intelligent brethren, especially with his teacher Fray Cristobal and his particular friend, Fray Fernando. He could but admire the spirit that guided their deliberations and feel increased thankfulness for the decision at which they had arrived. The peace which the whole community of Spanish Protestants then enjoined, perilous and unstable as it was, stood at the mercy of every individual belonging to the community. The unexplained flight of any obscure member of Lasada's congregation would have been sufficient to give the alarm and let loose the bloodhounds of persecution upon the church, how much more the abandonment of a wealthy and honorable religious house by the greater part of its inmates. The sword hung over their heads suspended by a single hair, which a hasty or unconscious movement, a word, a breath even, might suffice to break. End of Chapter 18 Chapter 19 and the Spanish Brothers This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org Chapter 19 Truth and Freedom Man is greater than you thought him, the bondage of long slumber he will break, his just and ancient rights he will reclaim, with Nero and Bure Cyrus he will rank. The Name of Philip Shiller was given to the lot of Don Juan Alvarez to experience such bewilderment as that which his brother's disclosure occasioned him. That brother, whom he had always regarded as the embodiment of goodness and piety who was rendered illustrious in his eyes by all sorts of academic honors and sanctified by the shadow of the coming priesthood had actually confessed himself to be what he had been taught to hold in deepest, deadliest abomination, a Lutheran heretic. But on the other hand, from the wise, pious and in every way unexceptionable manner Lose had spoken, Juan could not help hoping that what, probably through some unaccountable aberration of mind he himself persisted in styling Lutheranism might prove in the end some very harmless and orthodox kind of devotion. Perhaps, eventually his brother might found some new and holy order of monks and friars or even, he was so clever, he might take the lead in reformation of the church which, there is no use in an honest man's denying, was sorely needed. Still he could not help admitting that the common knife had sometimes expressed himself with nearly as much apparent orthodoxy and he was undoubtedly a confirmed heretic, a Huguenot. But if the wrecked election of this man who for monks had been his guest rather than his prisoner, served from one point of view to increase his difficulties from another it helped to clear away the most formidable of them. Don one had never been religious but he had always been hotly orthodox as became a Castilian gentleman of pierced blood and heir to all the traditions of an ancient house, foremost for generations in the great conflict with the Infidel. He had been want to look upon the Catholic faith as a thing bound up irrevocably with the nightly honor, the stainless fame, the noble pride of his race and consequently with all that was dearest to his heart. Heresy he regarded as something unspeakably mean and degrading. It was associated in his mind with Jews and Meurs. K. Tiffs, beggarly fellows. All of them vulgar and unclean some of them the hereditary enemies of his race. Heretics were Muslims, Infidels, such as My Sid Delighted and hewing down with his good sword Tizona For God and our Lady's Honor. Heretics kept the Passover with mysterious unhealed right into which it would be best not to inquire Heretics killed and perhaps ate Christian children. They sped upon the cross. They had to wear ugly yellow sand bonitos at Otto's Defe and to sum up all in one word they Smelled of the fire. To give full weight to the last illusion it must be remembered that in the eyes of Don Juan and his contemporaries death by fire had no hallowed or ennobling associations to veil its horrors. The burning pile was to him what the cross was to our forefathers and what the givet is to us only far more disgraceful as it was not so much his conscience as his honor and his pride that were arrayed against the new faith. But unconsciously to himself opposition had been silently undermined by his intercourse with the sword around nine. It would probably have been fatal to him that his first specimen of a Protestant been a humble Mjöltyr. Fortunately the new opinions had come to him represented by a noble and gallant knight who an open battle or a tilting field for bore his own advantage who was as careful of his pun donor as any Castilian gentlemen and who scarcely yielded even to himself in all those marks of good breeding which to say the truth Don Juan Alvarez de Santillanos y Manalla valued far more than any abstract dogmas of faith. This circumstance produced a willingness on his part to give fair play to his brother's convictions. When Carlos returned to Seville, which he did about a week after the meeting of the chapter, he was overjoyed to find Juan ready to hear all he had to say with patience and candor. Moreover, the young soldier was greatly attracted by the preaching of Frey Constantino whom he pronounced in language broad from the camp. Using these favorable dispositions to the best advantage, Carlos repeated to him passages from the New Testament and with deep and prayerful earnestness explained and enforced the truth they taught, taking care of course not to unnecessarily shock his prejudices. And as time passed on, it became every day more and more apparent that Don Juan was receiving the new ideas and that with far less difficulty and conflict than Carlos himself had done for with him the reformed faith had only prejudices not convictions to contend against. These ones broken down, the rest was easy and then it came to him so naturally to follow the guidance of Carlos and all that pertained to thinking. Unmeasured was the joy of the affectionate brother when at last he found that he might safely venture to introduce him privately to La Sada as a promising inquirer. In the meantime their outward life passed on smoothly and happily with much feasting and rejoicing Juan was betrothed to Donia Beatriz. He loved her devotedly since boyhood he loved her now more than ever but his love was a deep lifelong passion no sudden delirium of the fancy so that it did not render him oblivious of every other tie and callous to every other impression. It rather stimulated and at the same time softened his whole nature. It made him not less but more sensitive to all the exciting and ennobling influences which were being brought to bear upon him. In Donia Beatriz Carlos perceived a change that surprised him while at the same time it made more evident than ever how great would have been his own mistake had he accepted the passive gratitude of a child towards one who noticed and flattered her for the true deep love of a woman's heart. Donia Beatriz was a passive child no longer now. On the betrothal day a proud and beautiful woman leaned on the arm of his handsome brother and looked around her upon the assembled family queen like an air and mean. Her cheek rivaling the crimson of the Damasque rose her large dark eye beaming with passionate exulting joy. Carlos compared her thought to the fair carved alabaster lamp that stood in the inlaid center table of his aunt's state receiving room. Love had wrought in her the change which light within always did in that revealing its hidden transparency clarifying its pale cold whiteness with tint so warmly beautiful that the clouds of evening might have envied them. The betrothal of Donia Sancha to Don Valtran Vivares quickly followed. Don Balthazar also succeeded in obtaining the desired government appointment and henceforth enjoyed much to his satisfaction the honors and emoluments of an empleado. To crown the family good fortune Donia Ines rejoiced in the birth of a son in air while even Don Consalvo not to be left out acknowledged some improvement in his health which he attributed to the judicious treatment of Lasada. The mind of an intelligent man can scarcely be deeply exercised upon one great subject without the result making itself felt throughout the whole range of his occupations. Lasada's patients could not fail to benefit by his habits of independent thought and searching investigation and his freedom from vulgar prejudices. This freedom so rare in his nation led him occasionally but very cautiously even to hazard the adoption of a few remedies which were not altogether possible in the most day of Spania. The physician deserved less credit for his treatment of Juan's wounded arm which nature healed almost as soon as her beneficent operation ceased to be retarded by ignorant and blundering leech craft. Don won was heard occasionally to utter aspirations for their full restoration of his cousin Consalvo's health. More hardy in their expression than charitable in their motive. I would give one of my fingers he could ride a horse and handle a sword or at least a good foil with the bearing and language to the Carlos but what can a man do with a thing like that save let him alone for very shame. Yet he is dastard enough to presume on such toleration and to strike those whom his own infirmities hinder from returning the blow. If he could ride a horse or handle a sword brother I think you would find a marvelous change for the better in his bearing and language. That bitterness what is it after all but the fruit of pain or of what is even worse than pain repressed force and energy. He would be in the great world doing and daring and behold he is chained to a narrow room or at best toils with difficulty a few hundred paces. No wonder that the strong winds bound in their caverns moan and shriek piteously at times. When I hear them I feel far too much compassion to think of anger and I would give one of my fingers nay I would give my right hand he added with a smile that he shared our blessed hope one my brother. The most unlikely person of all our acquaintance is to become a convert. So say not I. Do you know that he has given money? He that has so little more than once to send your custoble for the poor? That is nothing said one. He was ever free-handed. Do not remember in our childhood how he would strike us upon the least provocation yet insist on our sharing his sweet meats and his toys and even sometimes fighting us for refusing them? Well the others knew the value of a duke before they knew their Angelus and would sell and barter their small possessions like Dutch merchants. Which you spared not to call them bearing yourself in the quarrels that naturally ensued with undaunted prowess while I too often disgraced you by tearful entreaties for peace at all costs. Ha ha. Returned Carlos laughing. But my brother he resumed more gravely. I often ask myself are we doing all that is possible in our present circumstances to share with others the treasure we have found? I trust it will soon be open to them all. Said Juan who had now come just far enough to grasp strongly his right to think and judge for himself and with it the idea of emancipation from the control of a proud and domineering priesthood. Great is truth and shall prevail. Certainly in the end. So that two mortal eyes looks like defeat may come first. I think my learned brother so much wiser than I upon many subjects fails to read well the signs of the times. Whose words sayeth when ye see the fig tree put forth her buds know ye that summer is nigh even at the door everywhere the fig trees are budding now. Still the frosts may return. Hold thy peace too, desponding brother. Thou shouldst have learned another lesson yesterday when thou and I watched the eager thousands as they hung breathless on the lips of our fray Constantino. Are not those thousands really for us and for truth and freedom? No doubt Christ has his own amongst them. You always think of individuals, Carlos, rather than of our country. You forget we are sons of Spain, Castilian nobles. Of course we rejoice when even one man here and there is one for the truth. But our Spain our glorious land, first and fairest of all the earth our land of conquerors whose arms reach to the ends of the world one hand taming the infidels in his African stronghold while the other crowns her with the gold and jewels of the far west. She who has led the nations in the path of discovery, whose fleets gem the ocean, whose armies rule the land shall she not also lead the way to the great city of God and bring in the good coming time when we all know him from the least to the greatest when they shall know the truth and the truth shall make them free. Carlos, my brother, I do not dare doubt it. It was not often that Don Juan expressed himself in such lengthened and energetic, not to say grand eloquent manner, but his love for Spain was a passion and to extol her or to plead her cause words were never lacking with him. In reply to this outburst of enthusiasm Carlos only said gently, Amen and the Lord establish it in his time. Don Juan looked healing at him. I thought you had faith Carlos? He said. Faith? Carlos repeated inquiringly. Such faith? Said Juan. As I have. Faith in truth and freedom. And he rang out the sonorous words. Verdad y libertad. As if he thought, as indeed he did, that they had but to go forth through a submissive rejoicing world. Conquering and to conquer. I have faith in Christ. Carlos answered quietly. And in those two brief phrases each unconsciously revealed to the other the very depths of his soul and told the secret of his history. End of Chapter 19 Chapter 20 of The Spanish Brothers by Deborah Alcock This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Chapter 20 The First Drop of a Thunder Shower Closed doorways that are folded and prayed against in vain. E. B. Browning Meanwhile the happy weeks glided on noiselessly and rapidly. They brought full occupation for head and heart as well as varied and intense enjoyment. Don Juan's constant intercourse with Donia Beatriz was not the less delightful because already he sought to imbue her mind with the truths which he himself was learning every day to love better. He thought her an apt and hopeful pupil but under the circumstances he was scarcely the best possible judge. Carlos was not so well satisfied with her attainment. He advised reserve and caution in imparting their secrets to her. Lest through inadvertence she might betray them to her aunt and cousins. Juan considered this a mark of his constitutional timidity. Yet he so far attended to his warnings that Donia Beatriz was strongly impressed with the necessity of keeping the religious conversations a profound secret. While her sensibilities were not shocked by the way he mentioned of words so odious as heresy or Lutheranism. But there could be no doubt as to Juan's own progress under the instructions of his brother and of Lozada and Freia Cassiodoro. He began earlong to accompany Carlos to the meetings of the Protestants who welcomed the new acquisition to their ranks with affectionate enthusiasm. All were attracted by Don Juan's warmth and candor of disposition and by his free, joyous, hopeful temperament. Though he was not beloved by any previously as Carlos was by the few who really knew him, such as Lozada, Don Juan Ponce de Leon, and the young monk, Freia Fernando. Partly through the influence of his religious friends and partly through the brilliant reputation he had brought from Alcala, Carlos now obtained a lectureship at the College of Doctrine of which the provost, Fernando de San Juan, was a decided Anzealous Lutheran. This appointment was an honourable one considered in no way derogatory to a social position as full as tending to convince his uncle that he was doing something, not idly dreaming his time away. Occupations of another kind opened out before him also. Amongst the many sincere and anxious inquirers who were troubled with perplexities concerning the relations of the old faith and the new were some who turned to him with an instinctive feeling that he could help them. This was just the work that best suited his abilities and his temperament to sympathise, to counsel, to aid in conflict only that man can do who has known conflict himself was God's special gift to him and he who goes through the world speaking whenever he can a word and season to the weary will seldom be without some weary one to listen to him. Upon one subject and only one the brother still differed Juan saw the future robed in the glowing hues borrowed from his own ardent hopeful spirit. In his eyes the spains were already one for truth and freedom as he loved to say he anticipated nothing less than a glorious regeneration of Christendom in which his beloved country would lead the van and there were many amongst Losada's congregation who shared these bright and beautiful if delusive dreams and the enthusiasm which had given them birth and in its turn was nourished by them. Again there were others who rejoiced with much trembling over the good tidings which often reached them of the spread of the faith in distant parts of the country and who welcomed each neo-fight to their ranks as if they were adorning a victim for the sacrifice. They could not forget that name of terror the Holy Inquisition and from certain ominous indications they thought the sleeping monster was beginning to stir in his den. Else why had new and severe decrees against heresy been recently obtained from Rome and above all why had the Bishop of Tarragona Gonzales de Muna Braga already known as a relentless persecutor of Jews and Moors been appointed vice inquisitor general still on the whole hope and confidence predominated and strange, nay, incredible as it may appear to us beneath the very shadow of the Triana the Lutherans continued to hold their meetings almost with open doors. One evening Don Juan escorted Donia Beatriz to some festivity from which he could not very well excuse himself Waltz Carlos attended a reunion for prayer and mutiful edification at the usual place the house of Donia Isabella de Bena Don Juan returned at a late hour but in high spirits going at once to the room where his brother sat awaiting him he threw off his cloak and stood before him a gay handsome figure in his doublet of crimson satin his gold chain and well used sword now worn for ornament with its embossed scabbard and embroidered belt I never saw Donia Beatriz look so charming he began eagerly Don Miguel de Santa Cruz was there but he could not get so much as a single dance with her and looked ready to die for envy but saved me from the impertinence of Luis Rotello I shall have to cane him one of these days if no milder measures will teach him his place in station he, the son of a simple hidalgo to dare lift his eyes to Donia Beatriz de la Veia the cative's presumption but thou art not listening brother what is wrong with thee? No wonder he asked the face of Carlos was pale and the deep mournful eyes looked as if tears had been lately there a great sorrow, brother mine he answered in a low voice my sorrow too then tell me what is it asked Juan his tone and manner changed in a moment Juliano is taken Juliano the milleteer who brought the books and gave you that testament the man who put into my hands this precious book to which I owe my joy now and my hope for eternity said Carlos his lips trembling I then me but perhaps it is not true too true a smith to whom he showed a copy of the book betrayed him God forgive him if there be forgiveness for such it may have been a month ago but we only heard it now and he lies there there who told you all were talking of it at the meeting when I entered it is the sorrow of all but I doubt if any have such cause to sorrow as I for he is my father in the fifth one and now he added after a long sad pause I shall never tell him what he has done for me at least on this side of the grave there's no hope for him said Juan mournfully as one that mused hope only in the great mercy of God even those dreadful dungeon walls cannot shut him out no thank God but the prolonged the bitter the horrible suffering I've been trying to contemplate to picture it but I cannot I dare not and what I dare not think of he must endure he is a peasant you're a noble that makes some difference said Don Juan with whom the tie of brotherhood in Christ not yet a face all earthly distinction but Carlos he questioned suddenly with a look of alarm does not he know everything everything Carlos answered quietly one word from his lips in the pile is kindled for us all but that word will never be spoken tonight not one heart amongst us trembled for ourselves we only wept for him you trust him then so completely it is much to say they in whose hands he is are cruel as fiends no doubt they will hush with a look of such exceeding pain that Juan was effectually silenced there are things we cannot speak of safe to God in prayer my brother prayed for him that he for whom he has risk so much may sustain him and if it may be shorten his agony surely more than two or three may join in that prayer but my brother he added after a pause be not so downcast do you not know that every great cause must have its martyr when was a victory won and no brave man left dead on the field a city stormed and none fallen in the breach perhaps to that poor peasant may be given the glory the great glory of being honored throughout all time as the sainted martyr whose death will be a grand lot truly worth suffering for and Juan's dark eye kindled and his cheek glowed with enthusiasm Carlos was silent dost thou not think so my brother I think that Christ is worth suffering for said Carlos at last that nothing short of his personal presence realized by faith can avail to bring any man victorious through such fearful trials may that may he be with his faithful servant now when all human help and comfort are far away End of Chapter 20 Chapter 21 of the Spanish Brothers by Deborah Alcock This is a LibriVox recording All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Chapter 21 by the Guadalquivir There dwells my father Sidlis and at rest where the fierce murderer can no more pursue Shiller Next Sunday evening the brothers attended the quiet service in Dona Isabella's upper room It was more solemn than usual because of the deep shadow that rested on the hearts of all the band assembled there But Losada's convoys spoke wise and loving words about life and death and about him who being the Lord of life has conquered death for all who trust him True incense offered on the golden altar standing before the mercy seat which only the veil still dropped between hights from the eyes of the worshippers C. Exodus 30 verse 6 But in such hours many array from the glory within shines through that veil Do not let us return home yet, brother said Carlos when they had parted with their friends The night is fine Wither shall we bend our steps Carlos named a favorite walk Carlos named a favorite walk through some olive yards on the bank at the river and one set his face towards one of the city gates Why take such a circuit? said Carlos showing a disposition to turn in an opposite direction This is far the shorter way True, but it is less pleasant Carlos looked at him gratefully My brother would spare my weakness He said But it needs not Twice of late when you were engaged with Dona Beatrice I went along further and to the Prado San Sebastian So they passed through the puerta de Triana and having crossed the bridge of boats leisurely took their way beneath the walls of the Grimold castle As they did so both prayed in silence for one who was pining in his dungeons Don Juan whose interest in the fate of Juliano was naturally far less intense than his brothers was the first to break that silence He remarked that the Dominican convent adjoining the Triana looked nearly as gloomy as the inquisitorial prison itself I think it looks like all other convents returned Carlos with indifference They were soon in the shadow of the dark ghosts like olive trees The moon was young and gave but little light but the large clear stars looked down through the southern air like lamps of fire Hanging not so much in the sky as from it Were those bright watchers charged with a message from the land very far off which seemed so near to them in the high places They ruled the night Carlos drank in the spirit of the scene in silence But this did not please his less meditative brother What art thou pondering? He asked They that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars forever and ever Art thou still thinking of the prisoner in the Triana? Of him and also of another very dear to both of us of whom I have foretold of whom I have for some time been purposing to speak to thee What if thou and I have been like children seeking for a star on earth while all the time it was shining above us in God's glorious heaven? Knowest thou not of old little brother that when thy parables begin I am left behind at once? I pray thee, let the stars alone and speak the language of earth What was the task to which thou and I vowed ourselves in childhood, brother? One looked at him keenly through the dim light I sometimes feared thou hast forgotten He said No danger of that But I had a reason, I think a good and sufficient one for not speaking to thee until well and fully assured of thy sympathy My sympathy? In ought that concern the dream the passion of my life of both our young lives Carlos, how couldest thou even doubt this? Listen to doubt at first whether a gleam of light which has been shed upon our father's fate would be regarded by his son as a blessing or a curse Do not keep a man in suspense, brother Speak at once in heaven's name I doubt no longer now It will be to thee one as to me a joy exceeding great to think that our venerated father read God's word for himself and knew his truth and honored it as we have learned to do Now, God be thanked Cried Juan, pausing in his walk and clasping his hands together This indeed is joyful news but speak, brother, how do you know it? Are you certain? Or is it only dream, hope, conjecture? Carlos told him in detail first the hint dropped by Lozada today say so then the story of Dolores lastly what he had heard at San Isodro about Don Rodrigo de Valerre As he proceeded with his narrative he welded the scattered links to the origin of evidence Juan, all eagerness, could hardly wait till he came to the end Why did you not speak to Lozada? He interrupted at last Stay, brother, hear me out The best is to come I have done so lately but until assured how thou wouldst regard the matter I cared not to ask questions the answers to which might wound thy heart You are in no doubt now What heard you from Sr. Cristobal? He was a genius named the Conde de Nuerra as one of those who befriended Don Rodrigo and that he had been present when that brave and faithful teacher privately expounded the epistle to the Romans There! Juan exclaimed with a start There is the origin of my second and favorite name Rodrigo Brother, brother, these are the best tidings I have heard for years And uncovering his head he uttered fervent and solemn words to which Carlos added a heartfelt Amen Then, brother, you think we are justified in taking this joy to our hearts? Without doubt cried the sanguine Don Juan and it follows that his crime was what in our eyes constitutes the truest glory the profession of a pure faith said Juan with decision leaping at once to the conclusion Carlos had reached by a far slower path and those mystic words inscribed upon the window the delight and wonder of our childhood Ah, repeated Juan El Dorado Yo he trovalo But what they have to do with the manner I see not yet You see not Surely the knowledge of God in Christ the kingdom of heaven opened up to us is the true El Dorado the golden country which enriches those who find it forevermore That's all very good Said Juan with the air of a man not quite satisfied I doubt not that was our father's meaning Carlos continued I doubt it though Up to that point I follow you Carlos but there we part something in the new world I think my father must have found A lengthened debate followed in which Carlos discovered rather to his surprise that Juan still clung to his early faith in a literal land of gold the more thoughtful and speculative brother sought in vain to reason him out of that belief nor was he much more successful when he came to state his own settled conviction that they should never see her father's face on earth not the slightest doubt remained on his own mind that on account of his attachment to the reformed faith the Conde de Nuerra had been in the phraseology of the time quietly put out of the way but whether this had been done during the voyage or on the wild unknown shores of the new world he believed his children would never know on this point however no argument availed with Juan he seemed determined not to believe in his father's death he confessed indeed that his heart bounded in the thought that he had been a sufferer in the cause of truth and freedom he suffered exile and the loss of all things but I see not wherefore he may not after all be living still somewhere in that vast wonderful new world I am content to think Carlos replied that all these years he has been at rest with the dead in Christ and that we shall see his face first with Christ when he appears in his glory but I am not content we must learn something more we shall never learn more how can we? that is so like thee little brother ever desponding ever turned easily from thy purpose well be it so said Carlos Meekly would I determine that I do said Juan at least I will make my uncle speak out he continued I have ever suspected that he knows something asked Carlos do all thou canst and God prosper thee he added with great earnestness remember the necessities of our present position and for the sake of our friends as well as our own lives use due prudence and caution fear not my two prudent brother the best and dearest brother in the world he added kindly if he had but a little more courage thus conversing they hastily retraced their steps to the city the hour being already late quiet weeks passed on after this unmarked by any event of importance winter had now given place to spring the time of the singing of birds was come in spite of numerous and heavy anxieties and of one sorrow that pressed more or less upon all it was still springtime in many a brave and hopeful heart amongst the adherents of the new faith and Seville certainly it was springtime with Don Juan Alvarez one Sunday a letter arrived by a special messenger from New Era containing the unwelcome tidings that the old and faithful servant of the house Diego Montes was dying it was his last wish to resign his stewardship him to the hands of his young master seniored on Juan Juan could not hesitate I will go tomorrow morning he said to Carlos but rest assured I will return hither as soon as possible the days are too precious to be lost together they prepared once more to Donia Isabella's house Don Juan told the friends they met there of his intended departure and ere they separated many a hand warmly grasped his and many a voice spoke kindly the for his journey it needs not formal leave takings senoras and my brethren said Juan my absence will be very short not next Sunday indeed but possibly in a fortnight and certainly this day month I shall meet you all here again said Losada gravely and so they parted end of chapter 21 chapter 22 of the Spanish brothers by Debra Alcock this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org chapter 22 the flood gates opened and they feared as they entered into the cloud for the first stage of Don Juan's journey Carlos accompanied him they spent the time in animated talk chiefly about Nuerra Carlos sending kind messages to the dying man to Dolores and indeed to all the household remember brother he said to give Dolores the little books I put into the alforas especially the confession of a sinner I shall remember everything even to bring the back tidings of all the sick folk in the village now Carlos here we agreed to part no, not one step further they clasped each other's hands it's not like a long parting said Juan no, bye con Dios my Roy que de con Dios brother and he rode off followed by his servant Carlos watched him wistfully would he turn for a last look he did turn taking off his velvet Montero he gaily bowed farewell that's allowing Carlos to gaze once more upon his dark handsome resolute features keen sparkling eyes and curling black hair whilst Juan saw a scholar's face thoughtful refined sensitive a broad pale forehead from which the breeze had blown the waving fair hair fair to a southern eye though really a bright soft brown and lips that kept the old sweetness of expression though whether from the mainly fringe that graced them or from some actual change the weakness which had marred them once had ceased to be apparent now another moment and both had turned their horses' heads Carlos, when he reached the city made a circuit to avoid one of the very frequent processions of the host since as time passed on he felt ever more and more disinclined to the absolutely necessary prostration afterwards he called upon Lozada to inquire the exact address of a person whom he had asked him to visit he found him engaged in the character of position and sat down in the patio to await his leisure ear long Dr. Cristobal passed through politely accompanying to the gate a canon of the cathedral for whose ailments he had just been prescribing the church men who was evidently on the best terms of this position was showing his good nature and affability by giving him the current news of the city to which Lozada listened courteously with a grave quiet smile and when necessary an appropriate question or comment only one item made any impression upon Carlos it related to a pleasant estate by the seaside which Muna Braga had just purchased disappointing thereby a relative of the cannons who desired to possess it but could not command the very large price readily offered by the inquisitor at last the visitor was gone in a moment the smile had faded from the physician's care-worn face turning to Carlos with a strangely altered look he said the monks of San Isidoro have fled fled? repeated Carlos in blank dismay yes no fewer than twelve of them have abandoned the monastery how did you hear it? one of the lay brethren came in this morning to inform me they held another solemn chapter in which it was determined that each one should follow the guidance of his own conscience those therefore to whom it seemed best to go have gone the rest remain for some moments they looked at each other in silence so fearful was the peril in which this rash act involved them all that it almost seemed as if they had heard a sentence of death the voice of Carlos faltered as he asked at last have Frey Cristobal or Frey Fernando gone? no they are both amongst those more generous if not more wise who have chosen to remain and take what God will send them here stay here is a letter from Frey Cristobal which the lay brother brought me it will tell you as much as I know myself Carlos read it carefully it seems that the consciences of those who fled would not allow them any longer to conform even outwardly to the rules of their order moreover from the signs of the times they believe that a storm is about to burst upon the company of the faithful God granted may prove themselves from its violence Losada answered with a slight emphasis on themselves and for us God help us Carlos almost moaned the paper falling from his trembling hand what should we do be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might return Losada bravely no other strength remains for us but God grant none of us in the city may be so of the brethren the flight of one might be the ruin of all and those noble devoted men who remain at San Isolro are in God's hands as we are I will ride out and visit them especially Frey Fernando excuse me senor don Carlos but you will do nothing of the kind that were to court suspicion I will bear any message you choose to send and you well though sadly the physician has occasion to go he said he is a very useful personage who often covers with his amble cloak the dogmatizing heretic Carlos recognized the official phraseology of the holy office he repressed a shutter but could not had the look of terror that dilated his large blue eyes the older man, the more experienced Christian could compassionate the youth face to face with death spoke kind words of counsel and comfort to Carlos he cautioned him strongly against losing his self-possession and thereby running needlessly into danger especially would I urge upon you senor don Carlos he said the duty of avoiding unnecessary risk for already you are useful to us and should God spare your life you will still be more so if I fall I will seek of it my beloved friend it will be as God pleases said the pastor calmly but I need not remind you other stand in like peril with me especially for a cassadorio and Don Juan Ponce de Leon the noblest heads the likeliest too far Carlos murmured then must younger soldiers step forth from the ranks and take up the standards dropped from their hands Don Carlos Arvarez we have high hopes of you your quiet words reach the heart for you speak that which you know and testify that which you have seen and the good gifts of mind that God has given you enable you to speak with the greater acceptance he may have much work for you in his harvest field but whether he should call you to work or to suffer shrink not but be strong and of good courage I am not afraid neither be thou dismayed for the Lord thy God is with thee with or so ever thou goest I will try to trust him and may he make his strength perfect in my weakness said Carlos but for the present he added give me any lowly work to do whereby I may aid you or lighten your cares my loved friend and teacher Lucidic gladly gave him instructions to visit certain secret inquirers and persons in distress and perplexity of mind he passed the next two or three days in these administrations and in constant prayer especially for the remaining monks of San Isodro whose sore peril pressed heavily on his heart he saw it as much as possible to shut out other thoughts or when they would force an entrance to cast their burden which otherwise would have been intolerable upon him who would surely hear for his own church his few sheep in the wilderness one morning he remained late in his chamber writing a letter to his brother and then went forth intending to visit Lasada as it was a fast day and he kept the church fast rigorously it happened that he had not previously met any of his uncle's family the entrance to the physician's house did not present its usual cheerful appearance the gate was shut and bolted and there was no sign of patients passing in or out Carlos became alarmed it was long before he obtained an answer to his repeated calls however someone inside cried out Kianas! Carlos gave his name well known to all the household then the door was half opened and a mulatto serving lad showed a terrified face behind it where is Senor Cristóbal? gone Senor gone? with her the answer was a furtive fright and whisper last night the algos hills of the holy office and the door was shut and bolted in his face he stood rooted to the spot speechless and motionless in a trance of horror at last he was startled by feeling someone grasped his arm without ceremony indeed rather roughly are you moonstruck Cacindon Carlos? asked the voice of Gonzalo at least you might have had the courtesy to offer me the aid of your arm without putting me to the shame of requesting it miserable cripple that I am and he gave vent to a torrent of curses upon his own infirmities using expressions profane and blasphemous enough to make Carlos shiver with pain yet that very pain did him real service it roused him from a stupor as sharp anguish sometimes brings back a patient from a swoon he said pardon me my cousin I did not see you but I hear you now with sorrow Gonzalo did no answer except his usual short bitter laugh whither do you wish to go? home, I am tired they walked along in silence at last Gonzalo asked abruptly what news? the news that is in everyone's mouth today indeed the city as well and I run mad with holy horror and no wonder their reverences, their lords inquisitors have just discovered a community of abominable Lutherans a very vipers nest in our midst it is said the wretches have actually dared to carry on their worship somewhere in the town ah no Marvel you look horror-stricken my pious cousin you could never have dreamed after everything was possible could you? after one quick keen glance he did not look again in his cousin's face but he might have felt the beating of his cousin's heart against his arm I am told that nearly two hundred persons have been arrested already two hundred gasps to Carlos and the arrests are going on still who is taken? Carlos forced his trembling lips to ask Los Aga, most a pity a good physician though a bad Christian a good physician and a good Christian too! said Carlos in the voice of one who tries to speak calmly in terrible bodily pain an opinion you would do more wisely to keep to yourself if a reprobate such as I may presume to counsel so learned in pious a personage who else? one you would never guess Don Juan Ponce de Leon of all men think of the count of Balin's son being dastigrated also the master of the college of doctrine San Juan and a number of Jeremiah Fryes from San Isodro those are all I know are the gentlemen's taking account of there are some beggarly trades folk such as Medell de Spinoza the embroiderer and Luis de Brasho from whom your brother bought that beautiful book of the gospels he gave a Dona Beatriz but if only such cattle were concerned in it no one would care some fools there be to unconservo continued after a pause who have run to the Triana and informed against themselves thinking thereby to get off more easily fools again I say for their paints and he emphasises words by pressure of the arm on which he was leaning at length they reach the door of Don Manuel's house thanks for your aid second salvo now that I remember it Don Carlos I hear also that we had a grand procession on Tuesday with Banis and crosses in honour of our lady and of our holy patronesses Justina and Rufina to beg pardon for the sin and scandal so long permitted in the midst of our most catholic city you my pious cousin licentiate of theology and all but consecrated priest you will carry a taper no doubt Carlos would faint have left the question unanswered but consalvo meant to have an answer he repeated laying his hand on his arm and looking him in the face though with a smile it would be very credible to the family for one of us to appear seriously I advise you to do it then Carlos said quietly no and crossed the patio to the staircase which led to his own apartment consalvo stood watching him and mentally retracting at his last word the verdict formerly pronounced against him as a coward not half a man end of chapter 22 chapter 23 of the Spanish brothers by Deborah Alcock this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org chapter 23 the reign of terror those shining millions around these stand for the sake of him at thy right hand think of the souls he died for here thus wandering in darkness in doubt and fear the powers of darkness are all abroad they own no saviour and they fear no god and we are trembling in dumb dismay O turn not thou by face away hog it was late in the evening when Carlos emerged from his chamber how the intervening hours had passed he never told anyone but this much is certain he contended with and overcame a wild almost uncontrollable impulse to seek refuge in flight his reason told him that this would be to rush upon certain destruction so sedulously guarded were all the ways of egress and so watchful and complete in every city and village of the land was the inquisitorial organization not to speak of the hermene dad or brotherhood a kind of civil police always ready to cooperate with the ecclesiastical authorities still if he could not be saved one might and should this thought was growing gradually clearer and stronger in his bewildered brain and aching heart while he knelt in his chamber finding a relief in the attitude of prayer though few and broken were the words of prayer that passed his trembling lips indeed the burden of his cry was this Lord have mercy on us Christ have mercy on us thou that carest for us forsake us not in our bitter need for thine is the kingdom even yet thou reignest this was all he could find to plead either on his own behalf or on that of his imprisoned brethren though for them his heart was wrung with unutterable anguish once and again did he repeat thine is the kingdom and the power thine oh father thine oh lord and savior thou canst deliver us it was well for him that he had won to save he rose at last and added to the letter previously written to his brother a few lines of most earnest and treaty that he would on no account return to Seville but then recollecting his own position he marveled greatly at his simplicity in purposing to send such a letter by the king's post an institution which strange to say Spain possessed it an earlier period than of the other country in Europe if he should fall under suspicion his letter would be liable to detention in examination and might thus be the means of involving Lawn in the very peril from which he sought to deliver him a better plan soon occurred to him that he might carry it out he descended late in the evening to the cool marble paved court or patio in the center of which the fountain ever murmured and glistened some of them in gorgeous bloom as he had hoped one solitary lamp burned like a star in a remote corner and its light illumined the form of a young girl seated in a low chair before an inlaid ebony table riding busily Donya Beatrice had excused herself from accompanying the family on an evening visit that she might devote herself in undisturbed solitude to the composition of her first love letter indeed her first letter of any kind for sure as he intended his absence to be one had stipulated for this consolation and induced her to promise it and she knew that the king's post went northwards the next day passing by Nouara on his way to the towns of La Mancha so engrossing was her occupation that she did not hear the step of Carlos he drew near and stirred behind her pearls, golden agne and a scarlet flower or two were twined in her glossy raven hair and the lamp shed a subdued radiant over her fine features which glowed through her delicate olive with the rosy light of joy an exquisite though not very costly perfume that Carlos and other days always associated with her presence still continued a favorite with her and filled the place around with fragrance it brought back his memory to the past to that wild thing yet enchanting dream the brief romance of his life but there was no time now even for a dream within a dream there was only time to thank God from the depths of his soul in this wide world there was no heart that would break for him Don Beatriz he said gently she started and half turned a bright flush mounting to her cheek you are riding to my brother and how know you that, senor Don Carlos asked the young lady with a little innocent affectation but Carlos, standing face to face with terrible realities pushed aside her pretty arts as one hastening to secure a dying man with the wild roses that impeded his path I most earnestly request of you senor to convey to him a message from me and wherefore can you not write to him yourself, senor license sheet is it possible senor that you know not what has happened vaya vaya Don Carlos you startle one do you mean these horrible arrests Carlos found that a few strong plain words were absolutely necessary in order to make Beatriz understand his brother's peril to Don Juan's extracts from scripture and the arguments and exhortations founded thereon, conscious and deep that these were secrets which should be jealously guarded, yet unconscious that they were what the church and the world branded as heresy consequently, although she heard of the arrest of Lissada and his friends with bag regret and apprehension, she was far from distinctly associating the crime for which they suffered, with the name dearest to her heart she was still very young and she had not that much and she blindly followed him she loved without caring to ask whether he was going himself or whether he was leading her when at last Carlos made her comprehend that it was for reading the scriptures and talking of justification by faith alone that Lissada was thrown into the dungeons of the Triana, a thrilling cry of anguish broke from her lips hush senora said Carlos and for once his voice was stern if even your little black foot page heard that cry it might ruin all but Beatrix was unused to self-control another cry followed and there were symptoms of hysterical tears and laughter Carlos tried a more potent spell hush senora he repeated we must be strong and silent if we are to save Don Juan she looked piteously up at him repeating save Don Juan yes senora, listen to me you at least are a good Catholic you have not compromised yourself in any way you say you're Angelus you make your vows you bring flowers to our ladies shrine you are safe she turned around and faced him her cheek dyed crimson and her eyes flashing I am safe, is that all you have to say who cares for that, what is my life worth patience dear senora your safety aids in securing his listen, you are writing to him tell him of the arrests for here of them he must use the language about heresy which will occur to you but which, God help me I could not use then pass from the subject write ought else that comes to your mind but before closing your letter say that I am well in mind and body and would be heartily recommended to him and that I most earnestly request of him for our common good and the better arrangement of our affairs not to return to Seville but to remain at Nuera he will understand that lay your own commands upon him your commands remember senora to the same effect I will do all that but here come my aunts and cousins it was true already the porter had opened for them they glue me out our gate and now the guilt and filigree and inner door was thrown open also and the returning family party filled the court they were talking together not quite so gaily as usual dania santa soons her near to Beatrix and began to rally her upon her occupation threatening playfully to carry away and read the unfinished letter no one addressed a word to Carlos but that might have been mere accident it was however scarcely accidental that his aunt as she passed him on her way to an inner room drew her mantilla closer around her less as deep lace fringe might touch his clothing shortly afterwards dania santa dropped her fan according to custom Carlos stooped for it and handed it to her with a bow the young lady took it mechanically but almost immediately dropped it again with a look of scorn as if polluted by his touch its delicate carved ivory the work of moorish hands laying fragments on the marble floor and from that moment Carlos knew that he was under the ban that he stood alone amidst his uncle's household a suspected and degraded man it was not wonderful to see with the monks of San Zodro his friendship with Don Juan Ponce de Leon and with the physician Lozada were all well known facts moreover had he not taught at the college of doctrine under the direct patronage of Fernando de San Juan another of the victims and there were other indications of his tendencies which could scarcely escape notice once the suspicions of those who lived under the same roof with him were awakened for a while he stood silent watching his uncle's countenance and marking the frown that contracted his brow whenever his eye turned towards him but when Don Manuel passed into a smaller saloon that opened upon the court Carlos followed him boldly they stood face to face but could scarcely see each other the room was darkness safe for a few struggling moonbeams senor my uncle said Carlos I feel my presence here is displeasing to you Don Manuel paused before replying nephew he said at length the saint's grant you have been no worse a moment of strong emotion will sometimes bring out in a man's face characteristic liniments of his family in calmer seasons not traceable there thus it is with features of the soul it was not the gentle timid Don Carlos who spoke now it was Alvarez de Santillano Siminaya there was both pride and courage in his tone if it has been my misfortune to offend my honoured uncle to whom I owe so many benefits I am sorry though I cannot charge myself with any fault but I should be faulty indeed where I too prolong my stay in a house where I am no longer what thanks to your kindness senor my uncle I have ever been hitherto a welcome guest having spoken thus he turned to go stay young fool cried Don Manuel who thought the better of him for his proud words they raised him in his estimation from a mark for his scorn to a legitimate object for his indignation I never spoke your father's voice but I tell you for all that you shall not quit the shelter of my roof I thank you you may spare the pains I ask you not for I prefer to remain in ignorance to what perilous and foolhardy lengths your intimacy with heretics may have gone without being a qualificator of heresy myself I can tell that you smell of the fire an indeed young man were you anything less than Alvarez I would hardly scorch my own fingers to hold you out of it the devil to whom in spite of all your fair appearances I fear you belong might take care of his own but since truth is the daughter of God you shall have it for my lips and the plain truth is that I have no desire to hear every cursed dog in Seville barking at me and mine nor to see our ancient and honorable name dragged through the mire and filth I have never disgraced that name have I not said that I desire no protestations from you whatever my private opinion may be it stands upon our family honor to hold that yours is still unstained therefore not from love as I tell you plainly but from motives that may per chance prove stronger in the end I and mine extend to you our protection I am a good Catholic a faithful son of mother church I freely confess I am no hero of the faith to offer up upon its shrine those that bear my own name I pretend not to such heights of sanctity not I and Don Manuel struck to shoulders I entreat of you, senor my uncle to allow me to explain Don Manuel waved his hand with a forbidding gesture none of thy explanations for me he said I am no silly cock to scratch till I find the knife the secret had best to be let alone this I will say however that of all the contemptible follies of these evil times this last one of heresy is the worst if a man will lose his soul in the name of common sense let him lose it for fine houses broad lands, a duke's title and archbishop's coffers or something else good at least in this world but to give it all up and to gain nothing save fire here and fire again after it is sheer blank idiocy I have gained something said Carlos firmly I have gained a treasure worth more than all I risk more than life itself what? is there really a meaning in this madness have you and your friends a secret? Don Manuel asked in a gentler voice and not without curiosity for he was the child of his age and then Carlos told him that the heretics had made the discovery of the philosopher's stone he would have seen nothing worthy of disbelief in the statement he would only have asked him for proofs the knowledge of God and Christ began Carlos eagerly gives me joy and peace is that all? cried Don Manuel with an oath fooled that I was to imagine for half an idle minute that there might be some grain of common sense still left in your crazy brain but since it is only a question of words and names and mystical doctrines I have the honor to wish you good evening Señor Don Carlos only I command you as you value your life and prefer a residence beneath my roof to a dungeon in the Triana to keep your insanity within bounds and to conduct yourself so as to avert suspicion on these conditions we will shelter you eventually if it can be done with safety we may even ship you out of the spains to some foreign country where heretics, rogues and thieves are permitted to go at large so saying he left the room Carlos was stunk to the quick by his contempt but remembered at last that it was a fragment of the true cross really the first that had fallen to his lot given to him to wear in honor of his master sleep would not visit his eyes that night the next day was the Sabbath a day he had been want to welcome and enjoy but never again should the Reformed Church of Seville meet in the upper room which had been the scene of so much happy intercourse the next reunion was appointed for another place a house not made with hands eternal in the heavens Donny, Isabella, de Bena and Lozada were in the dungeons of the Triana Frey Casio D'Oro de Reina singularly fortunate has exceeded in making his estate Frey Constantino on the other hand had been among the first arrested but Carlos went as usual to the cathedral where that eloquent voice would never again be heard a heavy silent gloom like that with proceeds of thunderstorm seemed to fill the crowded aisles yet it was there that the first gleam of comfort reached the breaking heart of Carlos it came to him through the familiar words of the Latin service, love from childhood he said afterwards the trembling child of one of the victims whose desolated home he dared to visit for myself horror took hold of me I dared not to think I scarce dared to pray save in broken words that were only like cries of pain the first thing that helped me was that grand verse in the tedium chanted by the sweet childish voices of the cathedral choir to the victo mortis aculeo a peruesti credentibus regna cuelorum think dear friends not death alone but its sting its sharpness for us and our beloved he has overcome and they and we in him the gates of the kingdom of heaven stand open open by his hands and neither men nor fiends can shut them again such words as these did Carlos take opportunity to speak to many of the bereaved ones from whom the desire of their eyes had been taken by a stroke far more bitter than death this ministry of love did not greatly increase his own peril since the less he deviated from his ordinary habits of life the less suspicions he was likely to awaken but had it been otherwise he was not now in a position to calculate perhaps he was to a new heaven at all events he had already ventured too much for Christ's sake not to be willing at his call to venture a little more meanwhile the isolation of his position and his uncle's house grew overpowering no one reproached him no one taunted him he often longed for some bitter word I though it were a curse to break the oppressive silence every eye looked upon him with hatred and scorn every hand shrank from the slightest most accidental contact with his almost he came to consider himself what all others considered him polluted, degraded, under the ban once and again would he have stopped escape by flight from an atmosphere in which it seemed more and more impossible to breathe but flight meant arrest and arrest beside its overwhelming terrors for himself meant the danger of betraying one his uncle and his uncle's family scorned and hate him had promised to save him if they could and so far he trusted them End of Chapter 23 Chapter 24 of the Spanish Brothers by Deborah Alcock This is a LibriVox recording All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Chapter 24 A Gleam of Light It is a weary task to school the heart ear years or grease to obtain its fiery throbbing into that still and passive fortitude which is but learned from suffering humans Shortly afterwards, the sun and air of Donia Ines was baptized with the usual amount of ceremony and rejoicing After the event, the family and friends partook of a merienda of fruit confectionery and wine in the patio of Don Garcia's house Much against his inclination, Carlos was obliged to be present as his absence would have occasioned remark and inquiry When the guests were beginning to disperse the hostess drew near the spot where he stood near to the fountain, admiring or seeming to admire a pure white azalea in glorious bloom In good sooth, cousin Don Carlos She said You forget old friends very easily but I suppose it is because you were going so soon to take orders Everyone knows how learned and pious you are and no doubt you're right to win yourself in good time from the concerns and amusements of this unprofitable world No word of this little speech was lost upon one of the neatest gossips in Seville a lady of rank who stood near leaning on the arm of Losada's former patient the wealthy cannon and this was what the speaker, in her good nature probably intended Carlos raced to her face eyes beaming with gratitude for the friendly notice No change of state, senora can ever make me forget the kindness of my fair cousin He responded with a bow You cousin's little daughter in a place near affections but with you, as with all the rest I presume the boy is everything As for my poor little Ines her small person is a small account in the world now It is well she has her mother Nothing would give me greater pleasure than to renew my acquaintance with Donia Ines if I may be permitted so to do This was evidently what the mother desired Go to the right then, amigo mio She said promptly indicating the place by a quick movement of her fan And I will send the child to you Carlos obeyed and for a considerable time paced up and down a cool spacious apartment only separated from the court by marble pillars between which costly hangings were suspended being a Spaniard and dwelling among Spaniards he was neither surprised nor disconcerted by the long delay At last, however, he began to suspect that his cousin had forgotten him but this was not the case first a painted ivory ball rolled in over the smooth floor and the hanging was hastily pushed aside and the little Donia Ines bound a gaily into the room in search of her toy She was a merry healthy child about two years old and really very pretty though her infantine charms were not set off to advantage by the miniature nuns had in which she was dressed an account of a vow made by her mother to our Lady of Carmel during the serious illness for which Carlos had summoned La Sada to her aid She was followed almost immediately not by the grave elderly nurse who usually waited on her but by a girl of about sixteen rather a beauty whose quick dark eyes was stowed from beneath their long lashes bashful but evidently admiring glances on the hands of young noblemen Carlos ever fond of children and enjoying the momentary relief from the painful tension of his daily life stooped for the ball and held it just allowing its bright red to appear through his fingers as the child was not in the least shy he was soon engaged in a game with her looking up in the midst of it he saw that the mother had come in silently and was watching him with searching anxious eyes that brought back in a moment all his troubles he allowed the ball to slide to the ground and then with a touch of his foot sent it rolling into one of the farthest quarters of the spacious hall the child ran gleefully after it while the mother and the attendant exchanged glances You may take the noble child away, Juanita said the former Juanita let off her charge without again allowing her to approach Carlos thus rendering a necessary the ceremony ever farewell was this the mother's contrivance lest by spell of word or gesture or even by a kiss the heretic might pollute or endanger the innocent babe when they were alone together Donia Inés was the first to speak I do not think you can be so wicked after all since you love children and play with them still she said in a low half frightened tone God bless you for those words senora answered Carlos with a trembling limp he was learning to steal himself to scorn Carlos tested his self-control more severely Amigo Mio she resumed drawing nearer and speaking more rapidly I cannot quite forget the past it is very wrong I know and I'm weak hey to me if it be true you really are that dreadful thing I do not have to care to name I ought to have the courage to stand by and see you perish but my kinsfolk said Carlos do not intend me to perish and for the protection they afford me they were expected from them less they might well have done for me but I would do God I could show them and you that I am not the foul dishonored thing they deem me if it had only been something respectable said Donia Inés with a sort of rife such as some youthful irregularity or stabbing or slaying somebody but what use in words I would say I counsel you to look to your own safety do you not know my brothers I think I do senora that an alvarez dempaniaya should be defamed of heresy would be more than a disgrace it would be a serious injury to them there be more ways than one of avoiding misfortune Carlos looked inquiringly at her something in her half averted face and the quick shrug of her shoulders prompted him to ask do you think they mean me mischief daggers are sharp to cut knots said the lady playing with her fan with so many ghastlier terrors had the mind of Carlos grandfamiliar that this one came to him in the guise of a relief so the sharpness of death for him might mean no more than a daggers thrust after all one moment here the next in his saviour's present who that knew odd of the tender mercies of the holy office could do less than thank God on his bended knees for the prospect of such a fate it is not death that I fear he answered looking at her steadily may as well live nay you would better live for you may repent may save your unhappy soul I shall pray for you I thank you dear and kind senora but through the grace of God my soul is saved already I believe in Jesus Christ hush for heaven's sake Dunya Inez interrupted dropping her fan and putting her fingers in her ears hush or ere I'm aware I shall have listened to some dreadful heresy the saints help me how should I know just where the good catholic words end and the wicked ones begin I might be caught in the web of the evil one and then neither saint nor angel no, nor even our lady herself could deliver me but listen to me Don Carlos for at all events I would save your life I will listen gratefully to odd from your lips I know that you dare not attempt flight from the city at present but if you could lie concealed in some safe and quiet place within it till this storm is blown over you might then steal away unobserved Don Garcia says that now there's such a keen search made after the Lutherans that every man who cannot give a good account of himself is like to be taken from one of the accursed sect but that cannot last forever in six months or so the panic will be passed and those six months you may spend in safety hidden away in the lodging of my lavender you are kind peace and listen I have arranged the whole matter once you're there I will see that you lack nothing it is in the Morero a house hidden in a very labyrinth of lanes a chamber in the house which a man would need to look for very particularly ere he found it how shall I succeed in finding it you notice the pretty girl who led in my little Ines peep the lavender's son is ready to die for the love of her she will describe you to him and engage his assistance in the adventure telling him the story I have told her that you wish to conceal yourself for a season having stabbed your rival in a love affair oh don't you Ines I almost a priest well well do not look so horror-stricken Amiga Mia what could I do I did not give them a hint of the truth or both my hands full of double-due cats but not have tempted them to stir in the affair so I thought no shame of inventing a crime for you that would win their interest in sympathy and dispose them to aid you passing strange said Carlos that I only sinned against the law of God in the life of my neighbor they would gladly help me to escape did they dream that I read his words in my own tongue they would give me up to death Juanita is a good little Christian remarked on your Ines and peep also is a very honest lad but perhaps he may find some sympathy with the old crown of a lavender who's of moreish blood and it is whispered knows more of Mohammed than she does of her breviary Carlos disclaimed all connection to the followers of the false prophet how should I know the difference said Donia Ines I thought it was all the same heresy in heresy but I was about to say peep is a gallant lad a regular maho his hand knows its way either amongst the strings of a guitar or on the hilt of a dagger he's often served caballeros who were out of night serenading their ladies and he will go equipped as if for such an adventure you also bind a guitar on your shoulder you could use one in old times and to good purpose too if you've not forgotten all Christian accomplishments together bribled Sancho to leave the gates open and sally forth tomorrow night when the clock strikes the midnight hour peep will wait for you in the calais de candalejo until one tomorrow night I would have named tonight but peep has a dance to attend moreover I knew not whether I could arrange this interview in sufficient time to prepare you now cousin she added anxiously I'm not feeling it I understand everything senora my cousin from my heart I thank you for the noble effort to save me whether in its result it shall prove successful or no already it is successful in giving me hope and strength and renewing my faith in old familiar kindness hush let's step as dong Garcia's it is best you should go only one word more senora will my generous cousin add to her goodness by giving my brother when it can be done with safety a hint of how it has fared with me yes that she'll be cared for now adios I kiss your feet senora she hastily extended her hand upon which she pressed a kiss of friendship and gratitude God bless you cousin he said fair condios she responded she added mentally she stirred and watched the retreating figure with tears in her bright eyes and in her heart a memory that went back to old times when she used to intercede with her rough brothers for the delicate and shrinking child he was younger as well as frailer than all the rest he was ever gentle and good and fit to be a holy priest she thought he hated me for the strange sad change yet after all I cannot see that he's so greatly changed playing with the child talking with me he's just the same Carlos of old the devil is very cunning thank god and our lady keep us from his wiles end of chapter 24