Page:Stanwood Pier--The ancient grudge.djvu/300

Rh "Well, I don't want to come into conflict with Lydia," Marion said. "But the drawing is enough to make one scream—to say nothing of the composition."

"He will probably improve," Floyd urged.

"He's not the kind that improves," she answered.

"Are n't you rather—positive?"

"You think I'm hard on people; I know I have that reputation. I dare say I see their faults generally. I'm sure I see Stewart's—as a painter. It seems to me almost a duty for his friends to organize a rescue league."

"And you hate ethical girls!"

"I'm not ethical; I just have a regard for art," she declared spiritedly.—"There's your grandfather; I hope he won't set the fashion by liking the pictures."

Colonel Halket had just entered the room; his tall figure, lean brown face and white hair showed above the group by the doorway, where he stood for a moment looking round for the painter. Then, as he saw Stewart and caught his eye, he threw his head back with the restrained smile of recognition which he bestowed on acquaintances in large gatherings. Also he moved toward Stewart with a leading citizen's majesty; and at once the path seemed to be made clear for him, even those who had been talking busily with backs turned, receiving some mysterious intimation of his approach and moving respectfully to one side. It would have been a greater man than Stewart who could have awaited hardily Colonel Halket's advance and pretended to be unconscious of it; Stewart attempted nothing so daring, but came forward at once, with outstretched hand. Indeed he was flattered by Colonel Halket's presence, even though he did not expect the manufacturer to approve of the message contained in the pictures. Marion and Floyd, who were standing near by, heard him offer to conduct his distinguished visitor on a tour of the room.

"No, thank you," Colonel Halket replied. "I must not claim so much of your attention. I will examine the pic-