But the plans they made to include him for a New Year's Eve home party remained uncertain as far as he was concerned.

He was vague--could not promise--he himself knew not why.

And they ceased to press him.
"You're growing thin and white," said Lily.

"I believe you're getting painter's colic." "House painters acquire that," he said, smiling.

"I'm not a member of their union yet." "Well, you must use as much white lead as they do on those enormous canvases of yours.