Harlequin and Columbine by Booth Tarkington
page 71 of 101 (70%)
page 71 of 101 (70%)
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never was, on sea or land."
It had its blessing for him. From that moment, if he had known it, this play, which was being born of so many parents, was certain of "success," of "popularity," and of what quality of renown such things may bring. And he who was to be called its author stood there a Made Man, unless some accident befell. Miss Ellsling spoke and came forward, another actor with her. The scene was over. There was a clearing of throats; everybody moved. The stage-carpenter and his assistant went away blinking, like men roused from deep sleep. The routine of rehearsal resumed its place; and old Tinker, who had not stirred a muscle, rubbed the back of his neck suddenly, and came up the aisle to Canby. "Good business!" he cried. "Did you see that little run off the stage she made when Miss Ellsling came on? And you saw what he can do when he wants to!" "He?" Canby echoed. "He?" "Played for the scene instead of himself. Oh, he can do it! He's an old hand--got too many tricks in the bag to let her get the piece away from him--but he's found a girl that can play with him at last, and he'll use every value she's got. He knows good property when he sees it. She's got a pretty good box of tricks herself; stock's the way to learn 'em, but it's apt to take the bloom off. It hasn't taken off any of hers, the darlin'! What do you think, Mr. Canby?" |
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