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 at length wandered back to the work-room to see a portfolio of Dick's water-colours; but Mrs. Peyton remained seated behind the urn, listening to the interchange of talk through the open door while she tried to coördinate her impressions.

She saw that Miss Verney was sincerely interested in Dick's work: it was the nature of her interest that remained in doubt. As if to solve this doubt, the girl presently reappeared alone on the threshold, and discovering Mrs. Peyton, advanced toward her with a smile.

&quot;Are you tired of hearing us praise Mr. Peyton's things?&quot; she asked, dropping into a low chair beside her hostess. &quot;Unintelligent admiration must be a bore to people who know, and Mr. Darrow tells me you are almost as learned as your son.&quot;

Mrs. Peyton returned the smile, but evaded the question. &quot;I should be sorry to think your admiration unintelligent,&quot; she