Eastern people they were; from the accredited center of art and literature; members of the inner circle of the elect.

They happened to be spending the season on the Coast, and she had taken advantage of the opportunity to advance the painter's interests.

It was very fortunate that her portrait was to be finished in time for them to see it.
The artist was sorry, he said, but, while it would not be necessary for her to come to the studio again, the picture was not yet finished, and he could not permit its being exhibited until he was ready to sign the canvas.
"But I may see it ?" she asked, as he laid aside his palette and brushes, and announced that he was through.
With a quick hand, he drew the curtain.

"Not yet; please--not until I am ready." "Oh!" she cried with a charming air of submitting to one whose wish is law, "How mean of you! I know it is splendid! Are you satisfied?
Is it better than the other?
Is it like me ?" "I am sure that it is much better than the other," he replied.

"It is as like you as I can make it." "And is it as beautiful as the other ?" "It is beautiful--as you are beautiful," he answered.
"I shall tell them all about it, to-morrow night--even if I haven't seen it.