The Baronet's butler, who had entered a few minutes previously to ask whether we wanted any more wine, and was lingering about under pretence of smoothing the cloth and of arranging the decanters, now joined in the conversation with the freedom of an old and faithful servant.
"I beg your pardon, Sir Hugh, but are you talking of Mr. Vasari's picture?"
"That is exactly what we are doing, Fruin."
The white-haired old man shook his head.
"Why, what have you got to say about it Fruin?" asked his master with considerable surprise.
The old servant shook his head once more.
"You hate ghost stories, Sir Hugh. That's why I've never spoken to you about these goings on."
"These goings on! Heavens! what's the man talking about? Let's have your ghost story, Fruin, and I'll suspend my criticism and laughter till—you are out of the room," he added aside.
"There's something very queer about that picture."