The Spanish Novelists a Series of Tales from the Earliest Period to the Close of the Seventeenth Century Volume 3 (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1832 edition. Excerpt: ...until it be decided who is the real owner, --I mean among ourselves, --of this iuestimable ring. We must have an umpire; and I declare, if there is not our friend, the Count, walking there with his party; let us call him aside, and we will abide by what he says." "I know him," replied the cashier's wife, " and I for one am content; he loves justice, and I am convinced he will decide for me." " No, for me, I am convinced," interrupted the third lady, " if we can only escape the eye of my jealous husband, for the Count is young, and that alone would drive him mad." While thus engaged, the king made his appearance; and there was a general rush, in which the three husbands joined, to see him come through the gate. The ladies 'availed themselves of the opportunity to catch the Count's attention; and they.drew him aside. The important affair was referred to him; the diamond placed in his hands; and they all insisted upon having his opinion to whom of right it belonged. Now, the Count having wit at will, and being something of a wag, at once replied, " Really, ladies, you allow short time for judgment; and I suspect I should show very little, were I_ to attempt to decide against any of the fair appellants in a case like this. But since you are pleased to confide in me, I am pleased to enjoin and decree as follows; that whichsoever of you, within the space of the next six weeks, shall succeed in playing off upon her husband the most clever and ingenious trick (always having due regard to his honour), she shall possess the diamond, and in the moan time it shall remain in my hands. But I perceive the gentlemen coming this way, therefore each of you exert your skill, and...