Mildred laughed.

'I often wonder what will become of me. I've changed a good deal in
the last two years. I've had a great deal of trouble.'

'I'm sorry you're so depressed. I know what it is. That wretched
painting, we give ourselves to it heart and soul, and it deceives us
as you deceive your lovers.'

'So it does. I had not thought of it like that. Yes, I've been
deceived just as I have deceived others. But you, Elsie, you've not
been deceived, you can do something. If I could do what you do. You
had a picture in the Salon. Cissy had a picture in the Salon.'

'That doesn't mean much. What we do doesn't amount to much.'

'But do you think that I shall ever do as much?'

Elsie did not think so, and the doubt caused her to hesitate. Mildred
perceived the hesitation and said:

'Oh, there's no necessity for you to lie. I know the truth well
enough. I have resolved to give up painting. I have given it up.'

You've given up painting! Do you really mean it?'

'Yes, I feel that I must. When I got your letter I was nearly dead
with weariness and disappointment--what a relief your letter was--what
a relief to be here!'