They were standing, as usual, on each side of the low fence at the end of the garden.
"What's wrong, little star? How have I offended you?"
"I wonder that you trouble to come here at all, Don Stanislas. It's more than a week since I you."
"I have been so busy. My new duties: they have made me, you know—"
"Throw that bone to some other dog," interrupted Mariquita, abruptly. "I am to be no longer deceived by your pretended duties. I know the truth: you prefer some other girl."
"Mariquita!" protested McKay.
"I have heard all. Do not try to deny it. She is tall and fair; one of your compatriots. You were seen together."
"Where, pray? Who has told you this nonsense?"
"At Waterport. Benito saw you."
McKay laughed merrily.