For Gloriani he professed a superb contempt, and, having been once to look at his wares, never crossed his threshold again.

The only one of the fraternity for whom by his own admission he cared a straw was little Singleton; but he expressed his regard only in a kind of sublime hilarity whenever he encountered this humble genius, and quite forgot his existence in the intervals.

He had never been to see him, but Singleton edged his way, from time to time, timidly, into Roderick's studio, and agreed with characteristic modesty that brilliant fellows like the sculptor might consent to receive homage, but could hardly be expected to render it.

Roderick never exactly accepted homage, and apparently did not quite observe whether poor Singleton spoke in admiration or in blame.

Roderick's taste as to companions was singularly capricious.