"Oh, I was only thinking aloud," replied the painter, laughing, "but it is best if I talk the matter over with you. I will sooner reach a decision."
"I do not understand," stammered Spero.
"I believe you; but do you know that we are both in the same boat?"
"How so?"
"Oh, I do not wish to pry into your secrets, but hope that you will listen quietly to my confession and then give me your opinion."
"A confession? Have you any debts? You know very well—"
"That your purse is open to me I know, but I want to make a loan with your heart."
"Speak quickly; what is the matter?"
"It is about the solution of a problem which has already brought many a man to the brink of despair."