nt, and that his friend Lucas was recognized as a rising
Dab at it. That at least is how he retailed the argument afterwards.

At the conclusion of these arrangements he again drew the artist aside.

"Would you like a check immediately," he inquired, "or upon delivery of
the pictures?"

With considerable animation Lucas assured him there was no hurry at all.

"There is a distinction between punctuality and hurry," replied Mr.
Walkingshaw. "I recommend it to your notice, Vernon. As to the date of
payment, I suggest by the first post after the delivery of the pictures.
Does that satisfy you?"

"Quite," said the painter, with a subdued air.

"Strenuous work, patience, and the cultivation of business habits are
the recommendations I make to you, my dear fellow--as I would to any
other young man. They have been, if I may say so, the secret of any
little success I may have achieved myself. Good-by, Vernon, good-by!"

He departed thus upon a note of austere benevolence, leaving behind him
a grateful yet chastened artist.

"Well, Frank," said he, as they drove back together, "that young fellow
has managed to sell one or two pictures, I'm glad to find."

His eyes twinkled merrily as he spoke, but before his son had time to
reply the senior partner spoke again.

"I only hope he keeps it up," was his addendum.

For a young man, Frank had remarkable discretion (apart from his one
lamentable lapse). He dutifully agreed with this sentiment, and then
proceeded to congratulate his parent on the taste with which he had
selected his pictures and the excellence of the investment he had made.
Mr. Walkingshaw appeared gratified by his approval.

"I don't throw my money away, Frank," he said complacently. "By the way,
what's the cab fare?"

"One and six," said Frank.

In the temporary absence of the senior partner, Mr. Walkingshaw handed
the man half a crown, and entered the hotel humming a romantic melody.

As he crossed the hall a deferential attendant approached with a
telegram.

"Hullo!" said he, "a wire. I wonder who the deuce this is from."

CHAPTER VI

It is a lamentable fact, remarked upon even by popular politicians, that
the very measures which give the highest satisfaction to some people
produce the profoundest depression in others. And it is worth adding
that it is not always the most original reflections which have procured
for their authors the widest reputation (though, if one wanted to quote
an a