“What’s the matter?” enquired his master. “The wood on which the picture is painted is perfectly rotten. I am afraid to touch it in case it should fall to pieces.” This was found to be the case. The picture of Gervase Lord Ethalwood was in such a decayed state that the panel on which that marvellous man had been painted was like touchwood, which had been so worm-eaten that it threatened to tumble to pieces. “I dare not touch it, my lord,” said Mr. Jakyl, in evident concern. “The only wonder is that it should have hung so long in its position. How long has it been painted, my lord?” “More than three centuries. What do you propose to do? Send up to London. Telegraph at once to a frame-maker to come immediately. I would not have the painting injured by unskilful treatment, not on any account.” “Send to London?” repeated the butler. “Of course, that will be the best plan.” A bright idea occurred to the butler, who said in a half apologetic tone, “We have a very clever young man from London working in the neighbourhood, who, I think, would be able to make a good job of it.” “What is he, and who is he?” “He’s in the picture line, my lord and is very clever, so I’m told. His name is Peace.” “Do you think he is a skilful workman?” “Oh dear me, there’s no question about that.” “Very well. Send for him at once; there will be no harm in hearing what he says. Send for him, Jakyl.” And with these words Lord Ethalwood returned to his laboratory. Peace, who was at work at his shop in Dennet’s-lane, was surprised to receive a message from the Hall, commanding his immediate attendance, upon a matter of urgent business. He put on his best attire and presented himself at Broxbridge. He was at once taken into the picture-gallery by the prudent and well-behaved Mr. Jakyl. Mr. Peace made a careful examination of the picture. “It’s all to pieces,” he observed to the butler, “and if you attempt to move it it will crumble into dust. I never saw anything so gone. The wood on which it is painted is literally powder. It will require all my skill to make a job of it.” “Do you think you can restore it? Don’t undertake it unless you see your way clear, for I must tell you frankly that his lordship sets more store by this than anything else in the whole establishment.” “If I can’t do it, nobody can,” returned Peace; “but don’t let me get you into trouble. If you have no confidence in me send to London.” “I will consult his lordship,” observed the butler, proceeding at once to the laboratory. He returned with his master. “Well,” said the latter, addressing himself to Peace, “how about this picture? Can anything be done with it? I don’t mind the price――only I want it made sound.” “And it is no easy task, my lord,” answered our hero, “seeing that it is so old and decayed; but I will do my best with it.” “Tell me how you intend to proceed with your work?”