The whole party were quiet enough now; for they were struck dumb with astonishment. The sign-painter held his breath, glared with his eyes, frantically clasped his hands together, and fell down on his knees before the great French painter.
“Forgive me!” he exclaimed, “forgive me for my audacious ignorance.”
David laughed heartily; and, taking his hand, shook it with fraternal cordiality.
By this time the news of the discovery had spread; the tavern was crowded with persons anxious to drink the health of their celebrated visitor; and the good old man, standing in the middle of the room, pledged them heartily. In the midst of the merry-making, the sign-painter’s daughter, the pretty Susette, threw her arms round her benefactor’s neck.
TO —— ——.
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BY MRS. JULIA C. R. DORR.
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Look thou upon me with approving eyes,