daring scheme of decoration and the profusion of expensive nicknacks
scattered about the room; these last were eloquent of Mrs Hamilton's
ability to satisfy any whim, however costly it might be. The walls
were panelled in white; white curtains were drawn across the
windows; black bearskins covered the floor; the furniture was dark,
formal, much of it carved; here and there on the white panelling of
the walls were black Wedgwood plaques; black Wedgwood china stood
audaciously upon and inside cabinets. A large grand piano and the
cheerful blaze of a wood fire mitigated the severity of the room.

"How beautiful!" exclaimed Mavis.

"You like it?"

"It's the loveliest room I've ever been in."

"It's your home if we hit it off."

"Do you think we shall?"

"Up to now I don't see any reason why we shouldn't."

Mavis again breathed thanks to Heaven for having so generously
answered her prayer. She felt how she would like to tell of her
experience to any who denied the efficacy of personal supplication
to God.

"Shall I play to you?" asked Mavis, after they had talked for some
minutes.