Chapters 19-23 Summary

Having just moved to Paris, Crabbe pays a visit to the tiny apartment/ studio of Dirk Stroeve. Dirk is delighted to see his old friend, and happily introduces his wife, Blanche. It is obvious that Dirk is head over heels in love with his wife, and also that he has spoken glowingly of Crabbe. Dirk chides him for not calling and getting his help in moving. Dirk shows Crabbe his recent work, and Crabbe sees that Dirk is still painting the same sentimental Italian scenes as always. The paintings of peasants in the streets are very charming and pretty, though terribly vulgar. Blanche raves about how good they are. To change the subject, Crabbe asks Dirk if he knows Charles Strickland. Dirk is surprised to hear that Crabbe knows the man, and says that Strickland is certainly an artistic genius. Dirk...