Kenyon's genius, unconsciously wrought upon by Hilda's influence, took a more delicate character than heretofore.

He modelled, among other things, a beautiful little statue of maidenhood gathering a snowdrop.

It was never put into marble, however, because the sculptor soon recognized it as one of those fragile creations which are true only to the moment that produces them, and are wronged if we try to imprison their airy excellence in a permanent material.
On her part, Hilda returned to her customary Occupations with a fresh love for them, and yet with a deeper look into the heart of things; such as those necessarily acquire who have passed from picture galleries into dungeon gloom, and thence come back to the picture gallery again.

It is questionable whether she was ever so perfect a copyist thenceforth.

She could not yield herself up to the painter so unreservedly as in times past; her character had developed a sturdier quality, which made her less pliable to the influence of other minds.