mona lisa painting

adventitious, to atone for the lack of mere personal attractiveness,
that, in looking at him, one inevitably shared the indifference,
and, even in a blind, imperfect sense, put faith in the confidence.
'I am disposed to be gregarious and communicative tonight,' he
repeated, 'and that is why I sent for you: the fire and the chandelier
were not sufficient company for me; nor would Pilot have been, for
none of these can talk. Adele is a degree better, but still farbelow the mark; Mrs. Fairfax ditto; you, I am persuaded, can suit me
if you will: you puzzled me the first evening I invited you down here.
I have almost forgotten you since: other ideas have driven yours
from my head; but to-night I am resolved to be at ease; to dismiss
what importunes, and recall what pleases. It would please me now to
draw you out- to learn more of you- therefore speak.'
Instead of speaking, I smiled; and not a very complacent or
submissive smile either.
'Speak,' he urged.
'What about, sir?'