To listen to you makes a man feel very humble." She laughed.

"The voice is a mere gift, for which no one deserves credit, although, of course, it can be improved." "If so, what of the accompaniment ?" "That is different; that comes from the heart and hard work.

Do you know that when I was under my old master out in Denmark, who in his time was one of the finest of violinists in the north of Europe, I often played for five and sang for two hours a day?
Also, I have never let the thing drop; it has been the consolation and amusement of a somewhat lonely life.

So, by this time, I ought to understand my art, although there remains much to be learnt." "Understand it! Why, you could make a fortune on the stage." "A living, perhaps, if my voice will bear the continual strain.

I daresay that some time I shall drift there--for the living--not because I like the trade or have any wish for popular success.