"It wasn't quite as bad as this, though."
"You never told us," accused Ruth.
"No, I didn't want to worry you. It passed over, and I'm sure this
will."
Mr. DeVere spoke little the next morning. Perhaps he did not want
his daughters to know how very hoarse his voice was. He left for the
doctor's before going to the theater, and most anxiously did the
girls await his return.
"There he is!" exclaimed Ruth at length, late that afternoon.
"But he's earlier than usual!" said Alice. "I wonder----"
Mr. DeVere fairly staggered into the room. His face was white as he
sank into a chair Alice pushed forward.
"Daddy!" exclaimed the girls.
He shook his head mournfully.
"It--it's no use!" he said, and they could barely make out his words.
"My voice failed completely. I--I had to give up the rehearsal," and
he covered his face with his hands.
CHAPTER V
REPLACED
For a few moments the two girls said nothing. They simply stood
there, looking at their father, who was bowed with grief. It was
something new for him--a strange role, for usually he was so jolly
and happy--going about reciting odd snatches from the plays in which
he had taken part.
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