Taquisara, (Volume 1)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1896. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER VI. Bosio shook his head, and a long silence followed. Once or twice he roused himself, stirred the cup of chocolate which the waiter had set before him, and sipped a teaspoonful of it absently. The corner where the two men sat together was quiet, but from the front of the cafe came the continual clatter of plates and glasses, the echo of feet, and the ring of voices; for it was just midday, and the place was full of its habitual frequenters. If we were in church, said Bosio at last, and if you were in a confessional-- He stopped, and glanced at his companion without completing the sentence. You would make a confession? There are churches near, said Don Teodoro. I am ready. Will you come? Bosio hesitated. No, he said at last. I could tell you nothing without betraying others. Betraying! Is it a crime that you have on your conscience? The priest's voice was low and troubled. Many crimes, answered Bosio. The crimps that must come, and that I cannot prevent by living, nor hinder by dying. Again there was silence during several minutes. You may trust me as a friend, even if, as a priest, you could not confess all the circumstances to me, said Don Teodoro, after the long pause. I do not wish you to make confidences to me, unless you are impelled to do so. But you are in that frame of mind, my dear Bosio, in which a man will sooner or later unburden himself to some one. You might do worse than choose me. I am your friend, I am old, and I know that I am discreet. I am extraordinarily discreet. It may seem strange that I should say so myself, but my own life has taught me that I am to be trusted with secrets. Yes, replied Bosio. You must have heard strange things sometimes under the seal of confession. I have known of strange th...