WHITEWASH
He struck a few preliminary chords, got up, whirled the piano-stool, and began to play Viennese waltzes of languorous swing.
Victoria, thus selected as object of the serenade, became embarrassed and uncomfortable, but Mr. Red was delighted that his companion should be thus singled out. In defiance of the feelings of the "sensitives," he whispered:
"It's an open secret that Herr Balder always dedicates his work to the most beautiful woman present. You should feel flattered."
It was on Victoria's tongue to call the custom a piece of impertinence, but she reflected upon the Romans and their habits and the duties of visitors at that capital. The humor of it struck her, and despite her efforts, she smiled, a lapse that had the effect of doubling the attentions of the genius, who fairly made love to his keyboard proxy.
At the conclusion of the performance there was no applause, "Just as there should be no prizes in such a gathering," Mr. Red explained; but from various corners affected souls rushed forward to present their appreciations.
The little pianist bowed stiffly, with a gentle,
