The servants had opened the folding-doors into the drawing-room.
"You seem to have some beautiful things here," said the Count, standing and looking round the exquisite little study.
"A few trifles, Count Golm, such as a man likes to have round him."
"But that is a Vautier," said the Count, stopping before a picture. "Do you call that a trifle?"
"Only from its size. I have a larger picture of his in the next room. And this little Scheurenberg ought to please you; at least, it is very much praised by connoisseurs."
"Charming--quite charming!" said the Count. "And this exquisite water-colour--Passini, of course?
"The office of showman is easy with Count Golm," said Philip to the Councillor.
"It runs a little in my family," said the Count. "My great-grandfather was a celebrated collector, also my father. You must some day come and see my small gallery at Golm."
"I only wish that you would give me an opportunity!"
"Is an invitation opportunity enough?"