human
Ah, what! Don Luis turned courtier! exclaimed the latter.
gpt
Well, it is one of the characters of life a gentleman ought to play, though I cannot say it is much to my taste. I cannot stand all the buckram and bowing a man has to go through, though I played my part pretty well to-day, and received all sorts of compliments for sinking the Rover; besides which, I expect to get something about as substantial, in the shape of a cross of some order or other, which, the chances are, I see the next day worn by the escudeiro of my Lord Marquis of Marialva or Tavora. But no matter! it will be intended as an honour, and I may boast how I won it, which few others can do: however, here have I been running on about my own affairs, and quite forgetting to ask you about yours. Tell me first, when did you come to Lisbon, for I have been inquiring for you, and heard that you were not even expected.
human
I arrived only yesterday, and remain but till my cousin Theresa's marriage takes place.
gpt
Ah! a sore subject that, I fear; but if you are the man I take you for, you will soon recover from that trifling wound; but I will not talk about it. I was wishing to see you, to deliver a message from Senhor Mendez, who desires to have some conversation with you. He has not yet recovered from his injuries, and begs you will visit him.
human
I will gladly do so, if you tell me where I may find him,
gpt
I will take you with me to-night, for I do not venture to visit him by day, for reasons I will explain some time to you,
human
I cannot go till late; for I have a visit to pay at the palace of the Marchioness of Corcunda, to deliver some jewels I recovered from some robbers in an extraordinary way to a young lady, who will be anxious to hear of their safety,
gpt
What! another young lady in the case? I thought you had foresworn womankind for ever,
human
I have seen Donna Clara but once, and am only performing an act of common courtesy,
gpt
Is she very lovely? asked his friend.
human
She is perfection, answered Don Luis.
gpt
That fully accounts for it, said the Captain.
human
I thought it would be so. Eternal wretchedness--no comfort but in the grave! Ha! ha!