He had given her his time and his powers.

He had spoken to her of Art, housekeeping, technique, teacups, the abuse of pickles as a stimulant,--that was rude,--sable hair-brushes,--he had given her the best in her stock,--she used them daily; he had given her advice that she profited by, and now and again--a look.

Such a look! The look of a beaten hound waiting for the word to crawl to his mistress's feet.

In return she had given him nothing whatever, except--here she brushed her mouth against the open-work sleeve f her nightgown--the privilege of kissing her once.

And on the mouth, too.