lma ridiculed
these compositions, mocking at the sentimentalism of the words, and
declaring that the airs were mere popular tinkle; but people not
inferior to her in judgment liked the music, which certainly had a
sweetness and pathos not easy to resist. The wonder was how such a man
as Felix Dymes could give birth to such tender melody. The vivacity of
his greeting when of a sudden he recognised Alma, contrasted markedly
with Cyrus Redgrave's ill-concealed embarrassment in the like
situation. Dymes had an easy conscience, and in the chat that followed
he went so far as to joke about his ill-luck some four years ago.

'You didn't think much of me. But I'm going ahead, you know. You have
to admit I'm going ahead.'

Prosperity was manifest in his look and voice. He had made no advance
in refinement, and evidently thought himself above the necessity of
affecting suave manners; his features seemed to grow even coarser; his
self-assertion was persistent to the point of grotesque conceit.

'Is your husband musical?' he asked.

'Not particularly.'

'Well, there's something to be said for that. One doesn't always want
to be talking shop.--I can't help looking at you; you've altered in a
queer sort of way. You were awfully fetching, you know, in those days.'

'You were awfully impertinent,' replied Alma, with a laugh. 'And I
don't see that you've altered at all in that respect.'

'Do you play still?'

'A good deal better than I used to.'

'Really? If it's true, why don't you come out? I always believed in
you--I did really. There's no better proof of it than what I said at
Munich; you were the only girl that could have brought me to that, you
know; it was quite against my principles. Have you heard of Ada
Wellington?--a girl I'm going to bring out next spring--a pianist; and
she'll make a hit. I should like you to know her.'

'How do you mean you are going to bring her out?'

'Do all the business for her, you know; run the show. Not as a
speculation; I don't want to make anything out of it, more than
expenses. I know her 'people; they're very badly off, and I shall be
glad if I can do them a good turn. There's nothing between us; just
friends, that's all. If ever you come out, put the business into my
hands, will you?'

'I won't promise,' replied Alma, 'until I see how you succeed with Miss
Wellington.'

'Shall it be an understanding? If I float Ada, you'll let me have a try
with you?'

'We'll talk of it, Mr.