“Ah! just so,” said Mr. Fairlie. “I wish I felt strong enough to go into that part of the arrangement⁠—but I don’t. The ladies who profit by your kind services, Mr. Hartright, must settle, and decide, and so on, for themselves. My niece is fond of your charming art. She knows just enough about it to be conscious of her own sad defects. Please take pains with her. Yes. Is there anything else? No. We quite understand each other⁠—don’t we? I have no right to detain you any longer from your delightful pursuit⁠—have I? So pleasant to have settled everything⁠—such a sensible relief to have done business. Do you mind ringing for Louis to carry the portfolio to your own room?”

“I will carry it there myself, Mr. Fairlie, if you will allow me.”