"What is the largest sum at your disposal?"

Roderick stroked his light moustache, gave it a twist, and then
announced with mock pomposity: "Three hundred dollars!"

"The money question could be arranged," said Rowland. "There are ways of
raising money."

"I should like to know a few! I never yet discovered one."

"One consists," said Rowland, "in having a friend with a good deal more
than he wants, and not being too proud to accept a part of it."

Roderick stared a moment and his face flushed. "Do you mean--do you
mean?".... he stammered. He was greatly excited.

Rowland got up, blushing a little, and Roderick sprang to his feet. "In
three words, if you are to be a sculptor, you ought to go to Rome and
study the antique. To go to Rome you need money. I 'm fond of fine
statues, but unfortunately I can't make them myself. I have to order
them. I order a dozen from you, to be executed at your convenience. To
help you, I pay you in advance."

Roderick pushed off his hat and wiped his forehead, still gazing at his
companion. "You believe in me!" he cried at last.

"Allow me to explain," said Rowland. "I believe in you, if you are
prepared to work and to wait, and to struggle, and to exercise a great
many virtues. And then, I 'm afraid to say it, lest I should disturb
you more than I should help you. You must decide for yourself. I simply