''And where shall I find Pepito?'
''At a tavern near the Barrier del Nino Perdido. But you will not, if you please, inform him of my address. For—well, it is an unpleasant matter to mention—but this Pepito seems to be—'
''Desperately in love with you.'
''I hardly meant that—but his attentions are too oppressive to be quite agreeable.'
''I fully understand you, madame. May I inquire if you have had any tidings of Mr. Percival?'
''Do not, I beg, Mr. Rideau, allude to that painful topic—all feelings of resentment are hushed in the grave.'
''What! have you heard of his assassination?'
'' Yes; the news reached me yesterday; I read it in the newspaper.'
'I shortly afterward took my leave—the last words of my new copartner being:
''At five, then, at the Hotel de las Diligencias. Be sure you are punctual.'