Page:Neith Boyce--The bond.djvu/191

 IFFICULTIES had thickened upon them this winter. They had a larger flat, in a more salubrious (and expensive) neighbourhood, and three servants. The baby had made this difference, with the result that they felt poor. Teresa, with a pang, had given up her bachelor rooms, for the work she was now able to do did not justify her in keeping them. But the rent of Basil's studio was high, and he had not sold anything lately, except the work he had done for Mrs. Perry. His book of drawings had been published, with a definite, but not a money success. The publishers had wanted to call it "The City Toilers," and by including mainly types of honest misery, to give it a sentimental air of pity. But Basil called it "City Types," and put into it what he considered his best work, irrespective of subject. The result could not please the sentimental public, but it pleased Basil, and also Teresa, who desired that his artistic ability should be recognised. But it did not bring in much money. For the first time in his life Basil felt the pressure of money needs. The demands of his household seemed to grow steadily, and his income was comparatively a fixed quantity.