“Very little, sir, since there is no opposition to fear from the opposite party. In the course of a few days——”
“But he has got to decide to-day,” said Helen.
“If he is sure of a sale, however, he will wait for the money,” suggested the lawyer.
“But there is one thing,” said Helen. “I don’t want Herbert to know just at first that it is we who have bought his picture.”
“Leave that to me,” said Mr. Sharp. “I can tell him that I have a commission from a friend to purchase for him, without mentioning names, you know.”
“Yes, that will be just the thing,” said Helen, well satisfied. “Will you go in now?”
“By all means, if you desire it.”
“And I want to go with you,” said Helen. “I want to see how delighted he will look when he finds his picture is bought. Only please don’t tell him just yet that we are rich, papa and I.”
“Be assured, my dear Miss Ford, I will respect your wishes,” said Mr. Sharp, bowing. “Indeed, I honor you for your kind and generous desire to assist your struggling friends.”
“I think, Mr. Sharp,” said Mr. Ford, quietly, “that I will authorize you to pay Mr. Coleman two hundred dollars for his picture, and to order of him another at the same price, the subject to be entirely of his own selection. Do you approve, Helen?”