gesture. The features thus disclosed were unimportant, apart from the
domelike forehead, which might well belong to the most learned man of
his learned age; but Fra Paolo's face owed its distinction to the rare
impression it gave the beholder of invincible calm and self-mastery,
with a certain mysterious hint of power and a promise of unswervingness.
His gaze held no suggestion of concealment; yet for the deeper thoughts
that move the spirit of man, to those who knew him well his mild blue
eyes remained inscrutable, while his courtesy to all made one forget
that his words were few, and that of himself he had revealed nothing.

"It is well," he said, "to _know_ that we know. Serve faithfully the God
who gave the gift and take no counsel from men who know not."

Then he stood silent for a while before the picture, as if he would
learn its meaning, the artist watching anxiously, not guessing his
thought.

"The pious wish hath made the offering noble," he said at length, in
quiet, measured tones. "And for the face, it is holy--of the beauty that
God permits--yet I pretend no criticism, since Art is not of mine
understanding. I will not take the honor of the gift away from the
giver, though I had meant it otherwise."

After Fra Paolo had left the studio the Veronese was still studying his
picture, pleased and serious, feeling that this man, who was not an
artist, had comprehended the deepest mood in which he had ever
approached his art, when Marina entered.

"Fra Paolo hath found our offering worthy," he said very gravely; and
suddenly remembering that Marina had come for the last time, "Benedetto