CHAPTER XIX

WHAT IS THE MATTER WITH HIM?


The sun was just tingeing the eastern horizon with light when Dennis
sprang from his bed on the following morning. He vowed that Miss Ludolph
should never have cause to complain of him again; for, great as was
the luxury of being awakened by such exquisite music, it was one that
he could not afford.

It must be confessed that he gave a little more care than usual that
morning to his toilet; but his resources were very limited. Still, as
nature had done so much for him, he could not complain. By half-past
six his duties in the store were accomplished, and brushed and furbished
up as far as possible, he stood outside the door awaiting his fair
task-mistress. Sometimes he wondered at the strange fascination she
exercised over him, but generally ended by ascribing it to her beauty
and love of art.

A little after the time appointed she appeared with her father, and
seemed pleased at Dennis's readiness for work.

"I shall not have to sing you awake this morning," she said, "and I
am glad, for I am in a mood for business."

She was attired in a close-fitting walking-dress that set off her