“Well enough, perhaps, for that, sir.”
“Then, let’s begin at once.”
“Have you selected an air, sir?”
“Well—er—yes,” faltered the great fellow. “I have—er—chosen two—duets. Here they are.”
He handed the music, and Dick took it up, glancing at each piece in turn; while the young officer looked warm and uncomfortable, watching his visitor uneasily.
“‘Flow on, thou Shining River;’ ‘Oh, Happy, Happy Fair!’” read Dick. “Both beautiful melodies;” and, taking the former, he crossed to the piano and ran through the melody, and then the accompaniment, with plenty of expression; while the lieutenant sat upon his chair with his eyes glistening from excitement.
“Now this piece,” he cried; and Dick ran through the second.
“Why, Smithson,” cried the lieutenant, “you are a wonderful musician! I—I’m afraid that you will be ready to laugh at me.”
“Oh, no, sir. Now, then—I suppose your flute is of the right pitch?”
“I—er—think so.”