"Indeed, it is; but I don't seem to recognize the artist's name, Is he well known?"
"I don't think he had much reputation till this year; but the two pictures he is exhibiting here now have been much admired. He has now become quite a celebrated man."
"Then he has another picture in the academy!"
"He has, and I believe it is the best of the two. If you will allow me I will find out for you where it is. They say it is quite one of the pictures of the year."
She hesitated a little before she made a reply.
"It is very kind of you—I should very much like to see it. But I must not trouble you."
"Please don't imagine it will be any trouble to me. Besides I am anxious to see the picture myself. I used to know the artist very well."
"Oh! that must be very interesting for you. I have often thought how nice it must be to know the authors and painters of the books and pictures we admire."
"I am afraid you would be very often disappointed in them," he said, laughing. "I see from the catalogue that the picture is in the next room. Would you like to go there now?"