k alike, to such an extent that I became apprehensive
lest so much attention would detract from the merit of his new work. But
though I feared from what was whispered concerning him that his
temperament and habits were still mercurial, he had evidently studied to
some purpose; for his pictures, the _abandon_ of which would have
shocked Mr. Spence more than ever, became instantly the vogue, and
brought him speedy fame and fortune. For both of these he persisted in
considering himself indebted to me. I never ventured to run the risk of
wounding his sensibilities by offering him anything for the portrait,
although in a merchantable sense its value was excessive.

I have not spoken of my Aunt Agnes; but up to this time there was little
to be said of her. She kept up the even tenor of her ways, which
included a repellent air toward me for long after my father's death. She
might have forgotten and forgiven the past, but in my choice of Aunt
Helen as a companion I had added insult to injury. There was no open
breach of course, but our relations were not cordial. I tried at times
to ameliorate the situation by sending her presents, and trying to let
her see when we met that I was still studious and anxious to lead a
sober life. But all in vain. She was resolute in the belief that to have
refused an offer of marriage from such a man as Mr. Spence was
inconsistent with a serious desire for self-improvement. She doubtless
was abetted in this view by Miss Kingsley, who continued to be intimate
at her house despite her increasing appropriation of Mr. Spence. The
philosopher was said to be more and more under her thrall every day, as
I was informed by Mr. Fleisch whom I invited to several of my
receptions. He told me he was himself no longer in harmony with Mr.
Spence, or rather that the master could not afford to pay him a
sufficient salary to warrant him in devoting his entire time to the
doctrine of Moderation. His condensed music had not sold, and he had
been forced, in order to support his wife and child (for he was married
now), to adopt the old system of composition, and to give music lessons.
This had caused a coolness on the part of Mr. Spence, who, as Mr.
Fleisch expressed it, wished to have all or none. But though he was no
longer the chief disciple, he held the master in the profoundest regard
and affection. He assured me, with tears in his eyes, that nothing but
the stress of absolute want could have induced him to sacrif