well. They are quite willing to fawn upon me now when I have met with
some success. But one time when I was poor and struggling they treated
me like a dog. I suppose Mrs. Featson, Mrs. Juatty, Mrs. Merden, and
other women of their set were there."

"Oh, yes, and they were most insistent. But how do you know of them?"
and the manager looked astonished. "I thought that you were an entire
stranger here."

"So I am, in a way," and a slight smile overspread the woman's face.
"But I know those women to my sorrow. Some day, perhaps, I may be able
to tell you more, but not to-night. Are you ready to go now?"

"Just a moment, Miss Royanna," and the manager motioned her not to
rise. "There are two little boys outside, who are very anxious to see
you."

"Boys! to see me?"

"Yes. They came from the country, and will not leave, so they say,
until they see you."

"What do they want?"

"I do not know. But I am acquainted with one of the little chaps, as I
met him this summer. I have a good story to tell you when you get
rested. Shall I bring them in? They will not keep you long."

"Yes, let them come," was the reply. "I love boys; there is no
pretence about them."