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. 1856 Excerpt: ...cheating, so I left the picture manufactory, and commenced the sale of prints on my own account.' "' Do you think there is any chance of selling this landscape?' inquired Paul. 'I will take fifteen dollars for it.' "' Why, Talbot, you are foolish, it is worth at least fifty.' "' Ah. no one would give me so large a sum for a picture; fifty dollars that would almost take me to Italy.' "' Well, well, my dear fellow, it is said Providence helps those who help themselves, and you are sure to be helped in some way or other. I was thinking about you this morning, and wrote a note of introduction to Mr. C, who is a great patron of the Fine Arts. I have told him of your desire to go abroad, and how you are situated--' "' Nay, nay, my kind friend, ' interrupted Paul, 'this looks too much like begging a favor; remember I cannot sacrifice my independence, even to secure the accomplishment of my most ardent wishes.' "' You are wrong, Talbot, you do not solicit him for aid; he has a taste for art, and if he gives you money, you return an equivalent in your picture, so that the obligation is mutual.' "Paul was persuaded, and, bearing his friend's letter, bent his way to a fine-looking house, a long way from his own abode. Upon ringing the bell, he was informed by the servant that the family were at dinner. Leaving the letter with the waiter, he desired him to hand it to Mr. C, and say that Mr. Talbot would call to-morrow evening. The next evening Mr. C. was engaged, and on the next, when Paul was ushered into the drawing-room, and his name announced, he received a stately and patronizing bow from a short, stout gentleman, who stood with his back to the fire, conversing with three or four more who were seated near him. "' Take a seat...