93

CHAPTER   VL

FATHER  STAFFORD  KEEPS  VIGIL.

Dinner that evening at the Manor was not a
very brilliant affair. Stafford did not appear,
pleading that it was a Friday, and a strict fast
for him. Kate was distinctly out of temper,
and treated the company in general, and
Eugene in particular, with frigidity. Every¬
body felt that the situation was somewhat
strained, and in consequence the pleasant flow
of personal talk that marks parties of friends
was dried up at its source. The discussion of
general topics was found to be a relief.

" The utter uselessness of such a class as
Ayre represents," said Morewood emphatically,
taking up a conversation that had started no
one quite knew how, "must strike every sen¬
sible man."

"At least they buy pictures," said Eugene*

"On the contrary. They now sell old
masters, and empty the pockets of would-be
buvers."

" They are very ornamental," remarked
Claudia.

" In some cases, undoubtedly," said More-
wood.