You will probably believe it, some day--if you do not now.

That is, you will believe it if you have the soul and the intelligence of an artist--if you have not--it will not matter--and you will be happy in your success." As the novelist finished speaking, the two men arrived at the hotel steps, where they halted, with that indecision of chance acquaintances who have no plans beyond the passing moment, yet who, in mutual interest, would extend the time of their brief companionship.

While they stood there, each hesitating to make the advance, a big touring car rolled up the driveway, and stopped under the full light of the veranda.

Aaron King recognized the lady of the observation car platform, with her two traveling companions and the heavy-faced man who had met them at the depot.

As the party greeted the novelist and he returned their salutation, the artist turned away to find again the chair, where, an hour before, the strange character who was to play so large a part in his life and work had found him.