"
"I fancy I know about that," said Jennings quickly, then
added, "You are fond of perfumes?"
"What a strange question," laughed Mrs. Herne. "Yes, I am.
Do you like this scent. It is called Hikui, and was given to
me by a dear friend who received it from a Japanese attache."
"From a friend or relative?"
Mrs. Herne frowned. "What do you mean by that?"
Jennings shrugged his shoulders. "Oh, nothing. Only you are
very like a lady called Senora Gredos."
"Maraquito," said Mrs. Herne unexpectedly. "Of course I am.
Her father was my brother."
"You are then her aunt?"
"Naturally. But the fact is, I do not proclaim the
relationship, as I do not approve of Maraquito's gambling. Of
course the poor thing is confined to her couch and must have
something to amuse her. All the same, gambling on a large
scale is against my principles. But, if asked, I do not
disown the relationship. Now you understand why I am like
Maraquito."
"I understand," hesitated Jennings, "you belong to a Spanish
family?"
"Spanish Jews. I am a Jewess, so is Maraquito."
"Do you speak Spanish?"
"Yes. Do you wish to speak it with me?"
"Unfortunately I do not know the language," said Jennings,
profoundly regretting the fact. "And your niece?"
"She does not speak it. She was brought up in England."
"In that case she should ask you if her name is masculine or
feminine, Mrs. Herne?"
The old lady started. "I should like to know what you mean?"
"Senora Gredos' Christian name should be Maraquita, not
Maraquito!"
"Really.
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