The discreet Kadiga did all in her power to soothe their sorrow.
"Take comfort, my children," said she, "this is nothing when you are
used to it. This is the way of the world. Ah! when you are as old as I
am, you will know how to value these men. I'll warrant these cavaliers
have their loves among the Spanish beauties of Cordova and Seville,
and will soon be serenading under their balconies, and thinking no
more of the Moorish beauties in the Alhambra. Take comfort, therefore,
my children, and drive them from your hearts."
The comforting words of the discreet Kadiga only redoubled the
distress of the three princesses, and for two days they continued
inconsolable. On the morning of the third, the good old woman
entered their apartment, all ruffling with indignation.
"Who would have believed such insolence in mortal man!" exclaimed
she, as soon as she could find words to express herself; "but I am
rightly served for having connived at this deception of your worthy
father. Never talk more to me of your Spanish cavaliers."
"Why, what has happened, good Kadiga?" exclaimed the princesses in
breathless anxiety.
"What has happened?- treason has happened! or what is almost as bad,
treason has been proposed; and to me, the most faithful of subjects,
the trustiest of duennas! Yes, my children, the Spanish cavaliers have
dared to tamper with me, that I should persuade you to fly with them
to Cordova, and become their wives!"
Here the excellent old woman covered her face with her hands, and
gave way to a violent burst of grief and indignation.
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