VANCE.--"Dates from Michael Angelo, if not from Zeuxis! Common
individuals trace their pedigree from their own fathers! the children of
Art from Art's founders!"

Oh, Vance, Vance, you are certainly drunk! If that comes from dining
with fine people at the Star and Garter, you would be a happier man and
as good a painter if your toddy were never sipped save in honeysuckle
arbours.

"But," said Lionel, bewildered, and striving to turn his friend's
thoughts, "what has all this to do with Mr. Darrell?"

VANCE.--"Mr. Darrell might have been one of the first men in the kingdom.
Lady Selina Vipout says so, and she is related, I believe, to every
member in the Cabinet. Mr. Darrell can push you in life, and make your
fortune, without any great trouble on your own part. Bless your stars,
and rejoice that you are not a painter!"

Lionel flung his arm round the artist's broad breast. "Vance, you are
cruel!" It was his turn to console the painter, as the painter had three
nights before /a propos/ of the same Mr. Darrell consoled him. Vance
gradually sobered down, and the young men walked forth in the moonlight.
And the eternal stars had the same kind looks for Vance as they had
vouchsafed to Lionel.

"When do you start?" asked the painter, as they mounted the stairs to
bed.

"To-morrow evening. I miss the early train, for I must call first and