I have enough income to keep me going;
but I want some real employment.
Denham.
Quite right. (_Rises, and puts log of wood on fire, then stands with
tongs in his hand and looks at her; puts down tongs._) Well, until
you get something that suits you, I wish you would give me some
sittings. I'll give you the regular model's wages--a shilling an
hour--no, I'll give you two--two shillings an hour--there!
Mrs. Tremaine.
Thank you, it is a generous offer. I have sat before without the
shillings, and will again with pleasure--if you will promise to talk
to me?
Denham.
I won't promise, but I shall talk all the same. So you have sat
before?
Mrs. Tremaine.
Yes, artists seem to like painting me; I don't know why. I don't
profess to be a beauty.
Denham.
Of course no woman is beautiful; but some women have the art of
persuading you that they are. You have this art.
Mrs. Tremaine.
(_laughing_) Really you are very polite. Am I to take that as a
compliment?
Denham.
No, as sincere praise. I am never polite to people I like, and I
like you.
Mrs. Tremaine.
Thanks. I like to be liked; and I can forgive your want of
politeness, if you are never more brutally rude than you have been.
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