“It is not always an advantage--this universal celebrity,” replied Gervase. “Nor is it true that any celebrity is actually universal. Perhaps the only living person that is universally known, by name at least, is Zola. Mankind are at one in their appreciation of vice.” “I cannot altogether agree with you there,” said Dr. Dean slowly, keeping his gaze fixed on the artist’s bold, proud features with singular curiosity. “The French Academy, I presume, are individually as appreciative of human weaknesses as most men; but taken collectively, some spirit higher and stronger than their own keeps them unanimous in their rejection of the notorious Realist who sacrifices all the canons of art and beauty to the discussion of topics unmentionable in decent society.” Gervase laughed idly. “Oh, he will get in some day, you may be sure,” he answered. “There is no spirit higher and stronger than the spirit of naturalism in man; and in time, when a few prejudices have died away and mawkish sentiment has been worn threadbare, Zola will be enrolled as the first of the French Academicians, with even more honors than if he had succeeded in the beginning. That is the way of all those ‘select’ bodies. As Napoleon said, ‘_Le monde vient a celui qui sait attendre._’” The little Doctor’s countenance now showed the most lively and eager interest. “You quite believe that, Monsieur Gervase? You are entirely sure of what you said just now?” “What did I say? I forget!” smiled Gervase, lighting a cigarette and beginning to smoke it leisurely. “You said, ‘There is no spirit higher or stronger than the spirit of naturalism in man.’ Are you positive on this point?” “Why, of course! Most entirely positive!” And the great painter looked amused as he gave the reply. “Naturalism is Nature, or the things appertaining to Nature, and there is nothing higher or stronger than Nature everywhere and anywhere.” “How about God?” inquired Dr. Dean with a curious air, as if he were propounding a remarkable conundrum. “God!” Gervase laughed loudly. “_Pardon!_ Are you a clergyman?” “By no means!” and the Doctor gave a little bow and deprecating smile. “I am not in any way connected with the Church. I am a doctor of laws and literature,--a humble student of philosophy and science generally …” “Philosophy! Science!” interrupted Gervase. “And you ask about God! _Parbleu!_ Science and philosophy have progressed beyond Him!” “Exactly!” and Dr. Dean rubbed his hands together pleasantly. “That is your opinion? Yes, I thought so! Science and philosophy, to put it comprehensively, have beaten poor God on His own ground! Ha! ha! ha! Very good--very good! And humorous as well! Ha! ha!”