The Impudent Comedian & Others (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1896. Excerpt: ... The Capture of the Duke I "As all hearts are captivated by the most charming Mistress Barry, so it is my hope that all souls will be captivated by her picture," cried Sir Godfrey, bowing low between his palette which he held in one hand and his sheaf of brushes which he held in the other. His pronunciation of the word charming--he said "sharmink"--had a suggestion of his native Liibeck about it; but his courtliness was beyond suspicion. None of his distinguished sitters could complain of his having failed to represent them on his canvases with dignity and refinement, whatever their candid friends might think of the accuracy of the portraitures. "I only ask to be painted as I am, Sir 1 Godfrey," said Mrs. Barry, when she had risen after her courtesy in acknowledgment of Sir Godfrey's gallant compliment. "As you are, madam? Ah, your ladyship is the most exacting of my sitters. As you are? Ah, my dear lady, you must modify your conditions; my art has its limitations." "Your art, but not your arts, sir. I protest that I am overwhelmed by the latter, as I am lost in admiration of the former," said the actress, adopting a pose which she knew the painter would appreciate. "Alas, Sir Godfrey," she added, "you do not well to talk to an actress of the limitations of art. What a paltry aim has our art compared with yours I have had cravings after immortality--that is why I am here to-day." "'T is surely, then, the future of the painter that you have had at heart, my dear madam; you come with immortality shining in your face." "Nay, sir; Sir Godfrey Kneller will live forevermore in his long line of legitimate monarchs--ay, and others, perhaps not quite--" "For God's sake, Mistress Barry These are dangerous days; pray remember that I am the queen's limner." Sir Godf...