"Maybe it isn't a bad idea at that. I'll see. Thanks anyway. Guess I'd better stack these paintings in Herold's room—lucky he left or there'd be no space."
"Why not hang up a few? Someone might see them and want to buy. I'll be bringing people in because I'll have to throw some parties."
"That's an idea—though I'm kind of sick of seeing them. I have an idea for an entirely new kind of show for my next. I'll show that s.o.b. Genlis whether I'm limited. I'll have to send back Ma's 'Hepaticas.' I wrote her her painting made a big hit."
This was the right moment, Semy thought, and he walked over and took the small painting in his hands. "It sure did. If it were for sale I'd scrape the price together to buy it myself," he said reverently.
Why was it everyone picked out a small basket of watery flowers? Clem thought irritably. He owed Semy a painting but Ma would be upset not to get her damn flowers. He forced a smile. "Get out! You know I wouldn't let you buy a painting, but I'll give you one of the others if you want one."
"That's certainly generous of you, Clem. I'd like one some day when I have a good place to hang it. I was thinking of something else though when I mentioned wanting the 'Hepaticas.' To be frank, I owe Horta Cornwallis something for introducing me to Biggens and I've been looking around for a present I can afford. I don't want to give her just anything but something she really wants. The only thing I can offer is this—she talks about your 'Hepaticas' all the time."
"Ma would be disappointed if I didn't return it. You know that."
"Oh, I know, I know," Semy said, adding self-commiseratingly, "it's tough though because I can't afford a brooch from Tiffany's. What with sending money home to Ruth and having to get evening clothes and a couple of suits I'm strapped. Yet when people do things for you, you have to do something impressive in return."
"Perhaps Mrs. Cornwallis would like another, more important, painting?" Clem said uncomfortably.
Semy sighed, placed the "Hepaticas" carefully on the table and said apologetically, "No, I couldn't let you do that. Thanks just the same. I only thought that since this is a little water color, maybe you could make another for your mother. Forget it—I shouldn't have asked."
