A picture to interest me, must produce the same effect upon my mind as if the object represented was really there.

This is the reason, perhaps, why I feel less pleasure in examining those pictures by the ancient masters, though portrayed with matchless skill, which represent the heathen deities.

With Jupiter, Mars and Venus, I can feel little sympathy, while the truthful and spirited delineations of Wilkie and Gainsborough, which have beep familiar from childhood, strike home to the heart." Before Miss Lee could reply, Theophilus Moncton walked to the table at which we were talking.

He stared at me, without deigning a word of recognition, and shook hands cordially with Miss Lee and her aunt.
"Happy to see you here, Catherine--was afraid you would be too much fatigued, after dancing all night, to give us a look in this evening.
Been admiring my prints?
Splendid collection, ain't they?
By-the-by, Mr.Geoffrey, I would thank you to be more careful in handling them.
Persons unaccustomed to fine drawings, are apt to injure them by rough treatment." A contemptuous glance was my reply, which was returned by a sidelong withering glare of hate.
"That picture, on the opposite side of the room," continued my tormentor, anxious to divert Miss Lee's attention from me, "is a fine portrait, by Sir Thomas Lawrence.

You are an admirer of his style; let us examine the picture nearer; I want to have your opinion of it." They crossed the room.