"Indeed! I congratulate you," said Mr. Arnold, cordially. "Do you think of taking their advice?"
"I do. I shall sail for Rome very soon now, and study there a year or two," said Leslie, his features beaming with pleasure. "I believe I shall succeed in my ambition. I feel within myself the promptings of genius, and I know that my persistent labor will conquer fame and fortune."
The elder man regarded him with some surprise. He had never seen him so enthusiastic on any subject before, even that of his beloved art.
"You seem very sanguine and determined," he observed with a smile.
"I am determined," answered Leslie, gravely. "I mean to conquer success. You remember the hackneyed quotation:
"'In the proud lexicon of youth which fate reserves to a bright manhood,
There is no such a word as Fail!'"
"I did not know you had such a towering ambition, Dane," said the millionaire, with a smile.
"My ambition is no higher than my hopes, Mr. Arnold, for I have come here this evening to ask you for the hand of Miss Vere when I shall be in a position worthy of that high honor!"
"Sir!"