Pagina 273 van 490

"Oh, anywhere. Here: this will do. I don't want to have it hung

up. Just lean it against the wall. Thanks."

"Might one look at the work of art, sir?"

Dorian started. "It would not interest you, Mr. Hubbard," he

said, keeping his eye on the man. He felt ready to leap upon him

and fling him to the ground if he dared to lift the gorgeous

hanging that concealed the secret of his life. "I shan't trouble

you any more now. I am much obliged for your kindness in coming

round."

"Not at all, not at all, Mr. Gray. Ever ready to do anything for

you, sir." And Mr. Hubbard tramped downstairs, followed by the

assistant, who glanced back at Dorian with a look of shy wonder

in his rough uncomely face. He had never seen any one so

marvellous.

When the sound of their footsteps had died away, Dorian locked

the door and put the key in his pocket. He felt safe now. No one

would ever look upon the horrible thing. No eye but his would

ever see his shame.