always very nice. But they weren't sure, for they understand French
hardly at all--they may have been mistaken. But if the conversation
were coarse it would be very unpleasant for me; the students would
know that I understood... Then there's the model, there's that to be
got over. But Elsie and Cissy say that the model's nothing; no more
than a statue.'

'The model is undraped?'

'Oh, yes.'

'Really Mildred---'

'That's the disadvantage of being a girl. Prejudice closes the
opportunity of study to one.'

Mrs. Fargus did not speak for a long time. At last she said:

'Of course, Mildred, you must consult your own feeling; if it's the
custom, if it's necessary--Your vocation is of course everything.'

Then it was Mildred's turn to pause before answering. At last she
said:

'It does seem rather--well, disgusting, but if it is necessary for
one's art. In a way I'd as soon work in the ladies' studio.'

'I daresay you derive just as much advantage.'

'Do you think so? It's from the students round one that one learns,