For some reason it thrilled and touched its
hearers in a way that they could not account for. The majority
present at once realized that she was not, and never could become,
a great singer. But within the compass of her voice, she could
pronounce sacred words in a manner that send them home to the hears
of the listeners like rays that could both cheer and melt.
At last she rose from the piano, remarking that there were other
musicians present; and no amount of persuasion could induce her to
remain there any longer.
"Perhaps you gentlemen play," she said, turning to the young men
who were about to depart. "A man's touch and leadership is so much
more decisive and vigorous than a lady's!"
"Mr. Van Berg plays very well indeed, considering his youth and
diffidence!" remarked Stanton.
"And he has been taking advantage of a defenceless woman all this
time! Mr. Van Berg, if you do not wish to lose your character
utterly, you must take my place at the piano."
"I admit," he replied, "that I have taken more pleasure than you
will believe in your in your contribution to our evening's enjoyment,
but rather than lose your good opinion I will attempt to play or
sing anything you dictate, even though I put every one in the parlor
to flight, with their fingers in their ears.
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