As the family was small, several of the bedrooms had never been used; they were twelve in number, and an artist friend of the sisters had suggested that each chamber should bear the name of a month of the year.

By a happy conceit which had greatly delighted them, he had with his own hand not only illuminated the name, but had with exquisite taste painted a spray of flowers that were typical of each month.

For example, over Elizabeth's door--June--hung a lovely cluster of crimson and white roses; while Dinah, who had appropriated September, had a cluster of blackberries and traveller's joy.
When Malcolm had taken possession of the guest-room--April--he had gazed admiringly at a festoon of pink apple-blossoms over his door, but when he had praised the novel adornment with his wonted enthusiasm, the sisters modestly disclaimed all credit.
"It was not our idea," observed Elizabeth regretfully; "neither Dinah nor I had the genius to evolve it.

It was our friend, Mr.Leon Power.
You will know his name; his 'Andromache' was so much talked about last year.'" "Of course, every one knows Leon Power," returned Malcolm quickly.

"A friend of mine, Mr.Keston, quite swears by him." "We know Mr.Keston's pictures well," observed Dinah in her placid way.
"I hear he is to have Mr.Logan's house for the summer, and then we shall have the pleasure of making his acquaintance.