But, to his surprise, Clara opposed the idea.

The Steinbech, she explained, was an instrument for artists.

It would be a sacrilege for a beginner to touch it.

Jonah persisted, but the shopman agreed with Clara that the celebrated Ropp at eighty guineas would meet his wants.

A long discussion followed, and Jonah listened while Clara tried to beat the salesman down below catalogue price for cash.