And here I am in London again, after God knows how many years.

No matter.
We will enjoy ourselves to-day; and when we go to Madam Gallilee's to-morrow, we will tell a little lie, and say we only arrived on the evening that has not yet come." The duenna's sense of humour was so tickled by this prospective view of the little lie, that she leaned back in her chair and laughed.

Carmina's rare smile showed itself faintly.

The terrible first interview with the unknown aunt still oppressed her.

She took up a newspaper in despair.
"Oh, my old dear!" she said, "let us get out of this dreadful room, and be reminded of Italy!" Teresa lifted her ugly hands in bewilderment.
"Reminded of Italy--in London ?" "Is there no Italian music in London ?" Carmina asked suggestively.
The duenna's bright eyes answered this in their own language.