eyes of hers, whose power is so indescribable--green, but as are
precious stones, or deep unfathomable mountain lakes.

She observes my confusion, which has even made me discourteous, for
I have remained seated and still have my cap on my head.

She smiles roguishly.

Finally I rise and bow to her. She comes closer, and bursts out into
a loud, almost childlike laughter. I stammer, as only a little
dilettante or great big donkey can do on such an occasion.

Thus our acquaintance began.

The divinity asks for my name, and mentions her own.

Her name is Wanda von Dunajew.

And she is actually my Venus.

"But madame, what put the idea into your head?"

"The little picture in one of your books--"

"I had forgotten about it."

"The curious notes on its back--"

"Why curious?"