"Had we not better ask Mr. Dana to pilot us? I am uncertain of the exact locality of this same studio." Mr. Dana could not go; he was waiting upon a country customer with a memorandum as long as his arm; but he conducted the ladies into the counting-room. Charley was there, at a tall desk, buried in ledgers and filed bills; and so business-like, that Ida hung back upon the threshold--a fear, of which she was ashamed, as he extended both hands to her, thanked them for their visit, and offered to escort them. He unlocked his bachelor's pantry of crackers, cheese and choice Madeira, hospitality which they civilly declined. Mr. Dana left the counter "to hope that he should see Miss Ida at dinner;" a courtesy which was a a sign of esteem and favor from one of his reticent disposition. Lynn's studio was a small, but exquisitely appointed room. It was a minute before the eyes, used to the out-door light, could penetrate the claro-obscuro of its twilight. Ida knew Lynn by his voice, and pressure of her hand, then a taller figure was developed to her vision, and she recognised Mr. Lacy. "Are you engaged, Mr. Holmes?" asked Mrs. Dana. "No, madam; Mr. Lacy has just concluded a sitting--the last. Your coming is opportune, you can criticise his portrait." The voice was unanimous. It was a masterly painting, and faithful to life. "A personable individual too, Morton--considering--" said Charley. "Did you have it painted for a sign-board? 'Morton Lacy, attorney at law,--For recommendations, see heading of this article.' What a multitude of lady-clients you would have!" "It is for a lady who will not part with it, even to procure me a press of clients--for my mother," returned Mr. Lacy. "She will feel herself to be under great obligations to you, Mr. Holmes, for so truthful a transcript of her 'absent boy.'" Ida looked at the original instead of the picture. It was, then, the handsomer of the two. With a complimentary observation of the workmanship, he dismissed the subject, and directed Ida to a genuine Claude, Lynn's pride and boast. She slipped her case into Mrs. Dana's hand, and followed him. Lynn presently approached. "It would be an idle form to say that I am honoured by your application," said he. "Your heart will tell you how I esteem this proof of your friendship. It is a sacred trust, and as such I will fulfil it." "I feared you would discourage me," replied Ida. "Is it not difficult to take a picture, the size of life, from a miniature?" "It requires care, and a just regard to proportions; but I have an assurance of success in my willingness to attempt the work. I hope--I _know_ I shall not fail. Now, what shall I do to entertain you? I am so unused to morning calls from ladies--and such ladies! that I am at a loss how to bear my honors." "Where are those long-promised portfolios?" said Ida. "We could not desire a more acceptable treat."