Uncle Marcos

Uncle Marcos' nieces and nephews were thrilled by his visits.

Each time Uncle Marcos had visited his sister Nivea’s home, he had stayed for several months, to the immense joy of his nieces and nephews, particularly Clara, caus- ing a storm in which the sharp lines of domestic order blurred.

His brother-in-law often found him to be embarrassing.

Severo del Valle’s brother-in-law playing the organ and selling little sawdust balls with a moth-eaten parrot, for the sheer pleasure of proving that even in the best of families there could be good reason for embarrassment.

Nivea enjoyed her brother's visits, but sometimes found them too extensive.

One night he left with- out saying goodbye, leaving behind his trunks, his books, his weapons, his boots, and all his belongings. Severo, and even Nivea herself, breathed a sigh of relief. His visit had gone on too long.