To-night I write to Cadiz, for he may
have fled there down the river. One thing I have discovered, however.
The Senora Isabella was caught by the watch, and being recognised as
having escaped from a convent, she was handed over to the executories of
the Holy Office, that her case may be investigated, or in other words,
should her fault be proved, to death.'
'Can she be rescued?'
'Impossible. Had she followed my counsel she would never have been
taken.'
'Can she be communicated with?'
'No. Twenty years ago it might have been managed, now the Office is
stricter and purer. Gold has no power there. We shall never see or hear
of her again, unless, indeed, it is at the hour of her death, when,
should she choose to speak with me, the indulgence may possibly be
granted to her, though I doubt it. But it is not likely that she will
wish to do so. Should she succeed in hiding her disgrace, she may
escape; but it is not probable. Do not look so sad, nephew, religion
must have its sacrifices. Perchance it is better for her to die thus
than to live for many years dead in life. She can die but once. May her
blood lie heavy on de Garcia's head!'
'Amen!' I answered.
CHAPTER IX
THOMAS BECOMES RICH
For many months we heard no more of de Garcia or of Isabella de
Siguenza. Both had vanished leaving no sign, and we searched for them in
vain.
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