Page:Caroline Lockhart--The full of the Moon.djvu/144

 short of one hundred in the shade, Doña Marianna's solemn countenance was framed in her best blanket-shawl, which fact at once proclaimed it a visit of import.

When she had settled herself on her heels, with her back braced comfortably against the wall, in preference to the chair which Nan offered her, she introduced the topics which were always discussed as a matter of form before the real object of a visit was disclosed.

"Muy viento," said the Doña Marianna profoundly as she produced a tobacco sack from the capacious pocket of her vivid green skirt.

"Yes, much wind," Nan agreed with equal profundity.

"Muy caliente." Doña Marianna twisted a cigarette with immense gravity.

"Very hot," Nan assented.

"Muchas moscas." The caller wagged her head.

"Many flies," Nan assented to the deplorable fact.

The demands of local etiquette having been satisfied, the visitor paused impressively and