The Vicissitudes of Bessie Fairfax by [pseud.] Holme Lee
page 98 of 528 (18%)
page 98 of 528 (18%)
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with his respects. Lady Latimer and Mrs. Wiley, who were still
interesting themselves in her affairs, were with Mrs. Carnegie at the time, giving her some instructions in Bessie's behalf. Mrs. Carnegie was rather bothered than helped by their counsels, but she did not discourage them, because of the advantage to Bessie of having their countenance and example. Bessie, sitting apart at the farther side of the round table, untied the string and unfolded the silver paper. Then there was a blush, a smile, a cry of pleasure. At what? At a picture of herself that little Christie had painted, and begged to make an offering of. It was handed round for the inspection of the company. "A slight thing," said Mrs. Wiley with a negligent glance. "Young Christie fishes with sprats to catch whales, as Askew told him yesterday. He brought his portfolio and a drawing of the church to show, but we did not buy anything. We are afraid that he will turn out a sad, idle fellow, going dawdling about instead of keeping to his trade. His father is much grieved." "This is sketchy, but full of spirit," said Lady Latimer, holding the drawing at arm's length to admire. "It is life itself! We must hear what your father says to it, Bessie," Mrs. Carnegie added in a pleased voice. "If her father does not buy it, I will. It is a charming little picture," said my lady. Bessie was gratified, but she hoped her father would not let anybody else possess it. |
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