The Rathdrum tribune. (Rathdrum, Idaho) 1903-1963, 1905-09-01
AURORA'S MODEL

garrett, but under Aurora's magic IL
was transformed into decidedly at
troctiye studio. Tapestry hangings
concealed the ugly outlines Of unplaned
studding; wide divans, Uttered with
comfortable cushions, suggested luxu-
rious repose; a curiously carved cab!-
net stood near one Of the windows, and
quaint brasses, candlesticks. tenders
and copper kettles were everywhere.
There were orderly disorder and rest
full chaos.
Under the wide north light sat Auro'
IA before m easel, her hair bristling
with an imposing array Of scalpels anu
brushes. On the canvas before her
IN autumn landscape was slowly com.
ing into being. The landscape was not
developing satisfactorily, and the seal
pels were being pressed into service
quite as much rs were the brushes.
The door opened, and Paul Radford
entered. He stood apologetically by
the door, smiling blandly at the girl
before the easel.
Hello, Aurora!" said he, with a
meekness becoming an intruder.
Come in and shut the door,. said
Aurora. "You must sit down and be
very quiet. This is my busy day."
Radford tossed his coat and bat
upon divan, thrust his hands into his
pockets and strobe over to the easel.
"Jove, Aurora, that's stunning ma
rine!" he observed.
"It's not a marine" said she testify;
otis landscape, autumn"
"Ohr' said he. Isn't that water in
the foreground
"That." said Aurora, scrapiDg an
overdonc cloud zealously, will DC n
COW when it's finished
Il beg the cows pardon, I'm sure"
said Radford. II hope it's to be a red
COW. Aurora. I'm very partial to red
cows
please sit down. she snapped i'm.
patiently. You'll find some maya
zines somewhere about" she ended
vaguely.
Sorry, but / haven't time to lool,
for Them" he said. Besides, came
here this afternoon to offer myself as
a model"
"A model for what:' she asked.
"Indolence:"
"a model Of SORROW said he.
you don't look your part particu-
larly," she remarked.
I'm consumed with it." he declared
gloomily.
How sad.' she said mockingly.
Radford retired to divan in the
corner and settled comfortably on a
pile of cushions.
If you could transfer my sorrow to
canvas, your name would be made"
he said.
"Since when has this affection de-
scended upon your" she asked.
Since Tuesday afternoon at 400"
'Pshaw" said Aurora, her eyes fixed
on the landscape.
Its no 'psha wing matter with me-
said he. Your sixth refusal has filled
me with gloom
Perhaps seventh might hearten
you Bit" she suggested maliciously
'There'll probably be seventh be.
fore leave" he returned respondent
".
Aurora laughed; then she turned
about in her chair and regarded him
gravely.
Paul, why on earth can't you bt
sensible" she asked. why can't 70,
be good friends with me without-oh
spelling it ALP
My dear Aurora" he explained sol
emmy, III Providence had intended
men to be sensible in your presence
he would never have given you thai
chin and those lips and
'Bosh" said Aurora, coloring q bit
Radford deserted the diyan anl
came over to the easel. He stood 70,
a time looking down ut the cir
thoughtfully.
I'll make n compact with you," he
said Mt length. Tell me for the sew,
enth time that you won't. marry me-
and I'll see to 1t that it is the last"
And we'll be friends ever after?''
she said lightly.
mo, we won't be friends" he said,
except in name"
She shrugged her shoulders, but said
nothing.
Listen, Aurora. Just say NO once
more. and I'll take myself off. won't
trouble you after that. I'll leave YOU
to your landscapes-and-and-thef fell
low who Is luckier than IT,
She looked up. His face was very
grave. 1t was unlike him to be seri.
Gus. She felt trifle alarmed.
Now. Aurora" he said quietly. "te,,
me for the seventh time, and ri 90"
Aurora made pretense of retouch.
Ing the cloud.
I am waiting" he said patiently.
stlli she said nothing. Radford nick.
Ell up his hat and coat. Then he again
look his stand by the easel.
Are you going?" she said weakly.
AS soon as you tell me-" said he.
Aurora lzfs