Upon the walls of the studio various labours of his life, in heavy gilt frames, contemplated him and the violets.
At last Pennoyer burst impetuously in upon him.

"Hi, Billie! come over and---- What's the matter ?" Hawker had hastily placed the violets in the envelope and hurried it to his pocket.

"Nothing," he answered.
"Why, I thought--" said Pennoyer, "I thought you looked rather rattled.
Didn't you have--I thought I saw something in your hand." "Nothing, I tell you!" cried Hawker.
"Er--oh, I beg your pardon," said Pennoyer.

"Why, I was going to tell you that Splutter is over in our place, and she wants to see you." "Wants to see me?
What for ?" demanded Hawker.

"Why don't she come over here, then ?" "I'm sure I don't know," replied Pennoyer.