CHAPTER IX.
THE SNARE On the following morning, when Castell returned, Margaret told him of the visit of d'Aguilar, and of all that had passed between them, told him also that he was acquainted with their secret, since he had spoken of her as half a Jew.
"I know it, I know it," answered her father, who was much disturbed and very angry, "for yesterday he threatened me also.

But let that go, I can take my chance; now I would learn who brought this man into my house when I was absent, and without my leave." "I fear that it was Betty," said Margaret, "who swears that she thought she did no wrong." "Send for her," said Castell.

Presently Betty came, and, being questioned, told a long story.
She said she was standing by the side door, taking the air, when Senor d'Aguilar appeared, and, having greeted her, without more words walked into the house, saying that he had an appointment with the master.
"With me ?" broke in Castell.

"I was absent." "I did not know that you were absent, for I was out when you rode away in the afternoon, and no one had spoken of it to me, so, thinking that he was your friend, I let him in, and let him out again afterwards.

That is all I have to say." "Then I have to say that you are a hussy and a liar, and that, in one way or the other, this Spaniard has bribed you," answered Castell fiercely.