It was always with extreme reluctance that Kate, ever broached any subject, connected with the realities of their position, in the presence of her grandfather, now that all the necessary changes had been made; and to this natural difficulty, was added the awkwardness of introducing important queries, apropos to nothing. At last, taking advantage of a pause in the Colonel's eloquence, of which Mr. Langley seemed inclined to avail himself, to depart, she plunged boldly, because desperately, into the subject uppermost in her thoughts. "I am most anxious to lose no time in endeavouring to get pupils. Mr. Winter mentioned to you, I suppose?" "Yes;" said Langley, turning to her with more of complacency, than his manner had hitherto exhibited, his painter's eye, probably caught by her expressive countenance, and graceful figure. "Yes, he mentioned your intention--and I--that is, I hope you will not disapprove; I told some friends of mine, professors of music, and they wish to hear you play; and then they will be able to judge how far they can forward your views." "Thank you," cried Kate, glancing nervously at the Colonel, to whose high and usually pale forehead the color rose at this proposed exhibition of his refined, noble, and graceful grandchild; "you are most kind to have anticipated my arrival; but," she added, covering her face playfully with her hands, "I never shall have courage for such an exhibition, such an ordeal!" "But if they never hear you perform, how can they recommend you?" asked Langley, in a matter-of-fact tone. "I did but jest," replied Kate, "and am ready to do whatever you may recommend." "Of course, if it is repugnant to Miss Vernon, however friendly and judicious your suggestion, Mr. Langley, I cannot permit her," began the Colonel, in disturbed accents. "Dearest grandpapa, this matter is between Mr. Langley and myself--you may listen--but are not to interfere. Am I not right, Mr. Langley?" He bowed, startled into silent admiration, by the extreme beauty of her smile. "I am silenced," said the Colonel. "Winter mentioned," resumed Langley, after a moment's pause, "that you were a pupil of Hermann's; I would advise your renewing your acquaintance with him; he is one of the first masters, in the fashionable world, at present." "I fully intend writing to him to-morrow, and--" "Why not to-day?" interposed Langley, with increasing warmth. "And merely ask him to appoint an interview--be sure you see him--writing is of little use--besides he has a daughter--I mean two--amiable girls, I am told--indeed I know one of them. Miss Vernon," addressing the Colonel, "can, therefore, call on him with perfect propriety, for he could never otherwise see her, his time is so much occupied." The Colonel, again reddening to the roots of his hair, made a silent inclination of his head, too much overcome at the idea of Kate's being compelled to call on any man, to be able to infringe upon her injunction.