naturalism in man; and in time, when a few prejudices have died
away and mawkish sentiment has been worn threadbare, Zola will be
enrolled as the first of the French Academicians, with even more
honors than if he had succeeded in the beginning. That is the way
of all those 'select' bodies. As Napoleon said, 'Le monde vient a
celui qui sait attendre.'"

The little Doctor's countenance now showed the most lively and
eager interest.

"You quite believe that, Monsieur Gervase? You are entirely sure
of what you said just now?"

"What did I say? I forget!" smiled Gervase, lighting a cigarette
and beginning to smoke it leisurely.

"You said, 'There is no spirit higher or stronger than the spirit
of naturalism in man.' Are you positive on this point?"

"Why, of course! Most entirely positive!" And the great painter
looked amused as he gave the reply. "Naturalism is Nature, or the
things appertaining to Nature, and there is nothing higher or
stronger than Nature everywhere and anywhere."

"How about God?" inquired Dr. Dean with a curious air, as if he
were propounding a remarkable conundrum.

"God!" Gervase laughed loudly. "Pardon! Are you a clergyman?"

"By no means!" and the Doctor gave a little bow and deprecating