"Did I like his voice?" he asked.
"Very much." I was not fond of pampering that susceptible vanity
of his; but for once, and from motives of expediency, I would e'en
soothe and stimulate it.
"Then, Jane, you must play the accompaniment."
"Very well, sir, I will try."
I did try, but was presently swept off the stool and denominated "a
little bungler." Being pushed unceremoniously to one side -- which
was precisely what I wished -- he usurped my place, and proceeded
to accompany himself: for he could play as well as sing. I hied
me to the window-recess. And while I sat there and looked out on
the still trees and dim lawn, to a sweet air was sung in mellow
tones the following strain:-
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