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Foxglove Manor, Volume II (of III)
Foxglove Manor, Volume II (of III) / A Novel
CHAPTER XIV. BAPTISTO STAYS AT HOME
As Haldane sat in his study, the evening previous to the morning fixed for his journey to London, Baptisto entered quickly and stood before the desk at which his master was busily writing.
“Can I speak to you, senor?” Haldane looked and nodded.
“What is it, Baptisto?”
“You have arranged that I shall go with you to-morrow, but I have had during the last few days an attack of my old vertigo. Can you possibly dispense with my attendance, senor?” Haldane stared in surprise at the Spaniards face, which was inscrutable as usual.
“Do you mean to say you wish to remain at home?”
“Certainly, senor.”
“Why? because you are ill? On the contrary, you look in excellent health. No; it is impossible. I cannot get along without you.”
And Haldane returned to his papers as if the matter was ended.
Baptisto, however, did not budge, but remained in the same position, with his dark eyes fixed upon his master.
“Do me this favour, senor. I am really indisposed, and must beg to remain.”