CHAPTER XV.
A New Affection The growth of a relationship between Cowperwood and Rita Sohlberg was fostered quite accidentally by Aileen, who took a foolishly sentimental interest in Harold which yet was not based on anything of real meaning.
She liked him because he was a superlatively gracious, flattering, emotional man where women--pretty women--were concerned.

She had some idea she could send him pupils, and, anyhow, it was nice to call at the Sohlberg studio.

Her social life was dull enough as it was.

So she went, and Cowperwood, mindful of Mrs.Sohlberg, came also.

Shrewd to the point of destruction, he encouraged Aileen in her interest in them.
He suggested that she invite them to dinner, that they give a musical at which Sohlberg could play and be paid.