“How can I help?”

“My husband thinks that I’m too impulsive and I sometimes let passion get in the way of good buying sense. I hate to admit it, but he’s right to a degree. Therefore I’ve decided that if I’m going to do this right then I need someone that I can trust implicitly; someone with knowledge, expertise and experience that can guide my buying decisions and make good recommendations. I want to build an extensive collection most of which will be showcased in my homes and offices all over the world but eventually I do want to hone it down to a private collection that will be part of the legacy that I leave behind.”

“Will your daughter be involved in this endeavor?”

“No. Helena has absolutely no interest in art. She thinks the idea is fruitless. Perhaps someday she will give me grandchildren that can appreciate it but for now I need someone I can entrust.”

“Peggy, nothing would bring me greater pleasure than to preserve the Peabody legacy for future generations. I hope you will give me the chance to prove that I am the person that you are looking for. “

“I’m beginning to think that maybe you are Bette Porter.”

“I’ll make you a deal Peggy. I’m so sure that you will be pleased with my recommendations that I will make the first one right now. If you decide to purchase it I will forego my commission.”

“We haven’t even talked about compensation yet Bette.”

“It doesn’t matter. We’ll consider this a free trial offer. Neither one of us is obligated to make any commitments right now. I just have a feeling about this piece and I want to share it with you.”

“OK fine. There is no harm in looking. What is this piece? Who’s the artist?”

“Patience Peggy; first you have to close your eyes.”

“That’s a bit childish don’t you think?”

Peggy chided Bette but she was amused at her enthusiasm. The more time she spent with her the more enamored she became of the confident young woman.

“I promise you this is the way you’ll want to experience it. Now please close your eyes and no peeking. I’ll let you know when you can open them.”

“Fine” Peggy obediently closed her eyes tightly while Bette walked into an adjoining room to get the artwork. She returned and stood in front of the skeptical woman.