There was a hasty conference between the manager of the
company and the treasurer of the same.
"The play will have to open on time," said the manager.
"Yes, we've had a big advance sale," replied the treasurer.
"And DeVere can't do it."
"No. I'll have to put his understudy in until we can cast someone
else. I'll tell him."
The actor must have guessed what was coming, for he was washing off
his make-up in the dressing-room when the manager entered.
"I'm awfully sorry about this, DeVere," began Mr. Cross. "But I'm
afraid you won't be able to go on Monday night."
"No, Mr. Cross, I myself am of the same opinion. My voice has failed
me utterly."
"And yet--and yet--you understand how it is. We must open on time."
"Yes, I know. The show must go on--the show must go on."'
"And the only way----"
"Is to replace me. I know. You can't help it, Mr. Cross. I know just
how it is. It isn't your fault--it's my misfortune. I thank you for
your patience. You'll have to--to replace me. It's the only thing to
do. And yet," he added so softly that the manager did not hear "what
am I to do? What are my daughters to do?"
CHAPTER VI
A NEW PROPOSITION
There was no need for Ruth and Alice to ask their father what had
happened.
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