allowed to display not only their energy but their intelligence.
The stage became a cheery workshop, where ambition flourished
and kindness was the rule. For thus did the starry happiness
that glowed within the beatific bosom of the little "ingenue"
make Arcady around her.

At four o'clock Talbot Potter stepped to the front of the stage
and lifted his hand benevolently. "That will do for to-day," he
said, facing the company. "Ladies and gentlemen, I thank you. I
have never had a better rehearsal, and I think it is only your
due to say you have pleased me very much, indeed. I cannot tell
you how much. I feel strongly assured of our success in this
play. Again I thank you. Ladies and gentlemen"--he waved his
hand in dismissal--"till to-morrow morning."

"By Joles!" old Carson Tinker muttered. "I never knew anything
like it!"

"Oh--ah--Packer," called the star, as the actors moved toward
the doors. "Packer, ask Miss--Malone to wait a moment. I want--
I'd like to go over a little business in the next act before
tomorrow."

"Yes, Mr. Potter?" It was she who answered, turning eagerly to
him.

"In a moment, Miss Malone." He spoke to the stage-manager in a
low tone, and the latter came down into the auditorium, where
Canby and Tinker had remained in their seats.