unequalled powers in his art."

After a short pause, he proceeded to designate some of the most
prominent points of excellence in the painting; and being a
connoisseur in these matters, the assembly were highly entertained
by his well-chosen remarks, and his subject being one to call forth
all his admiration, he was unusually eloquent. Indeed, his remarks
were so in unison with the appreciation of all who were present
there and heard his voice, that he seemed to carry them along with
him, and to infuse fresh enthusiasm among those who had already
expressed so much admiration of the picture.

There was another pause, the duke evidently awaiting an answer to
his query as to the authorship of the piece. Yet there was no answer
given, nor was there any perceptible movement among the group of
artists, who were assembled together in one corner of the gorgeous
apartment, and upon whom all eyes were turned. But they also stared
at one another, wondering who could be the man. Many of them had
been liberal enough to express a feeling of delight and admiration,
in beholding, as they said, so noble a production of modern times,
and by a living artist. There were those, among them who really
loved the art they followed, and thus were constrained to
acknowledge their admiration.

"I hope," again repeated the duke to the assembly, "if there is any
one present who can inform us as to the authorship of this masterly
effort of genius, he will do so at once, and confer a personal favor
upon us."

There was a slight movement perceptible among the group of artists