“Did she actively dislike them?”
Kitty straightened up and regarded him. “I don’t catch your meaning?”
“My meaning is clear.” Mitchell spoke slowly, deliberately. “Did your aunt actively dislike Major Leigh Wallace because of his relationship?”
“His relationship?” echoed Kitty in bewilderment. “He is no relation.”
“I beg pardon,” with a sarcastic smile. “I happen to know that Leigh Wallace is your cousin.”
“Then your knowledge is greater than mine.” Kitty curbed her quick temper with an effort and added more quietly, “Whoever told you that was misinformed.”
“I think not.” Mitchell consulted his notebook before continuing. “Colonel Marcus Holt of San Francisco, was your uncle, was he not?”
“Yes. My mother, Louise Holt, was his sister.” Kitty slipped her arms out of her coat which she had kept on for warmth. The fire was drawing nicely and for the first time she was conscious of the heat it generated. “What prompts your interest in old Colonel Holt? I assure you he died long before Aunt Susan.” There was a touch of mockery in her voice and Mitchell smiled grimly.
“I am coming to my point,” he said. “Holt’s nephew is Major Leigh Wallace.”
Kitty sat bolt upright with such suddenness that Mouchette nearly lost her balance. With an offended air, the cat jumped to the floor and crept under the nearest chair.