Oh, I am happier now!
Denham.
Happier?
Mrs. Tremaine.
Yes. You don't know what an oasis this studio has been to me. I
shall be sorry to go back to the desert.
Denham.
Well, I never had a better model. I have learnt a lot since I began
to paint you.
Mrs. Tremaine.
I am so glad if I have been of any use. Have you ever painted
Constance?
Denham.
I have tried; but she's a fidgety sitter, and always looks like an
incarnation of despair. (_He approaches her._) May I arrange these
folds a little?
Mrs. Tremaine.
Certainly.
Denham.
(_arranging skirt of dress_) That will do. The fan so--head a
_little_ more to the left--so. (_He goes back, and paints in silence
again._) This is coming splendidly. I dare not do much more to the
head.
Mrs. Tremaine.
Can you finish it to-day?
Denham.
As much as I can finish anything. (_Paints again in silence._) I
wish Constance had some of your reposeful quality. I can't think
what ails her. She gets more irritable and pessimistic every day.
Mrs. Tremaine.
Perhaps you irritate her.
Denham.
I? But, good heavens!--(_Stops painting, and looks at her.
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