Page:The Novels and Tales of Henry James, Volume 1 (New York, Charles Scribner's Sons, 1907).djvu/68

 down and work. Athens might help you, but for the present I should n't recommend Benares."

"It will be time to arrange details when I begin to pack my trunk," Hudson remarked.

"If you mean to turn sculptor the sooner you pack your trunk the better."

"Oh, but I 'm a practical man! What 's the small est sum per annum on which one can keep alive the sacred fire?"

"What 's the largest sum at your disposal?" Rowland returned.

Roderick stroked his light moustache, gave it a twist, and then announced, as with due importance, "Three hundred dollars."

"The money question could be arranged," said Rowland. "There are ways, you know, of raising money."

"'Know?' How should I know? I never yet discovered one."

"One of them consists," said Rowland, "in having a friend with a good deal more than he wants and in not being too proud to accept a part of it."

Roderick stared a moment and his face flushed. "Do you mean—do you mean—?" He stammered, he panted; he was greatly excited.

Rowland got up, blushing a little, and Roderick sprang to his feet. "In three words, if it 's in you really to go in for sculpture, you ought to get to Rome and study the antique. To get to Rome you need money. I 'm fond of fine statues and busts, but unfortunately I can't make them myself. I have to order them from those who know how. I order a 34