"As soon as I have one painted."
Robert paused for a moment. After all, why should he interfere? His mother had transferred her love and allegiance to another husband, and his father's face would be a silent reproach to her.
"Did my mother authorize this removal?" he asked.
"Certainly."
"Then I have only one request to make, that the portrait be hung up in my chamber. I still revere the memory of my father."
"I have no objections. You can take it up to your room when you please."
The portrait was taken down, and Robert received it. He at once carried it upstairs. His heart swelled within him, and a look of bitterness came over his young face.
"I can't stand it long," he said to himself. "The sight of that man fills me with indignation and disgust. I would as soon see a serpent."
As yet, however, there had been no open outbreak, but it was to come very soon.
"May I ask a favor of you, James?" said his wife at the breakfast table.