But what could he say?
He remembered Conrad Lagrange's counsel when James Rutlidge had seen the girl at their camp.

What could he say that would not injure Sibyl Andres?
To cover his embarrassment, he forced a laugh and answered lightly, "Really, I am not good at confessions." "Nor I at playing the part of confessor," she laughed with him.

"But, just the same, you might tell me what you think of yourself.

Aren't you just a little ashamed ?" The artist had moved to a position in front of her portrait; and, as he looked upon the painted lie, his answer came.

"Rather let me tell you what I think of _you_, Mrs.Taine.And let me tell you in the language I know best.