There was genuine emotion in his voice, and his sweeping gesture suited the mood of vehemence. Nancy, having seen that the two or three other people on the platform were not within hearing, gave an answer of which the frankness surprised even herself.
‘Portraits for the Academy cost a great deal, you know.’
‘I know. But that’s what I’m working for. There are not many men down yonder,’ he pointed over the City, ‘have a better head for money-making than I have.’
‘Well, prove it,’ replied Nancy, and laughed as the wind caught her breath.
‘How long will you give me?’
She made no answer, but walked to the side whence she could look westward. Crewe followed close, his features still set in the hungry look, his eyes never moving from her warm cheek and full lips.
‘What it must be,’ she said, ‘to have about twenty thousand a year!’
The man of business gave a gasp. In the same moment he had to clutch at his hat, lest it should be blown away.
‘Twenty thousand a year?’ he echoed. ‘Well, it isn’t impossible. Men get beyond that, and a good deal beyond it. But it’s a large order.’
‘Of course it is. But what was it you said? The most beautiful girl in all London? That’s a large order, too, isn’t it? How much is she worth?’