ward, in pleasant
contemplation, when he heard a gentle cough--as of one who wished to
attract attention. Looking up he observed close at hand, a tall man,
dressed in black, with long hair, which fell over his shirt collar and
shoulders.

He wore a broad collar and black satin necktie, and his hair was parted
in the middle. His appearance was certainly peculiar, and excited our
hero's curiosity.

"My young friend," he said, "you have chosen a pleasant resting-place
beneath this umbrageous monarch of the grove." "Yes, sir," answered
Philip, wondering whether the stranger was a poet.

"May I also recline beneath it?" asked the newcomer.

"Certainly, sir. It is large enough to shelter us both."

"Quite true; but I did not wish to intrude upon your meditations."

"My meditations are not of much account," answered Philip, laughing.

"I see you are modest. Am I right in supposing that yonder case contains
a violin?"

"Yes, sir."

"Then you are a musician?"

"A little of one," replied Philip.

"May I ask--excuse my curiosity--if you play professionally?"

"Perhaps he may help me to an engagement," thought our hero, and he said
readily, "I do."

"Indeed!" said the stranger, appearing pleased. "What style of music do
you play?"

"For each of the last two evenings I have played for dancing-parties."

"Alone?"

"Yes."

"You do not confine yourself to dancing-music?"

"Oh, no! I prefer other kinds; but dancing-tunes seem most in demand,
and I have my living to make." The stranger seemed still more gratified.

"I am delighted to have met you, Mr.---- Ahem!" he paused, and looked
inquiringly at Philip.

"Gray."

"Mr. Gray, I believe Providence has brought us together. I see you are
surprised."

Philip certainly did look puzzled, as he well might.

"I must explain myself more clearly. I am Professor Lorenzo Riccabocca,
the famous elocutionist and dramatic reader."

Philip bowed.

"Doubtless you have heard of me?" said the professor inquiringly.

"I have never lived in large places," answered Philip, in some
embarrassment, "or no doubt your name would be familiar to me."

"To be sure, that must make a difference. For years," said the
professor, "I have given dramatic readings to crowded houses, and
everywhere my merits have been conceded by the educated and refined."

Philip could not help wondering how it happened in that case that the
professor should look so seedy. A genius appreciated so highly