a word of
encouragement."

"Albrecht and the others are asses," ejaculated Winston, with sudden
indignation. "They imagine they are actors because they prance and
bellow on a stage, and they sneer at any one who is not in their class.
But I can tell you this, Miss Norvell, the manager considers you a
treasure; he said as much to me."

She stood before him, the glare of the stage glinting in her hair, her
hands clasped, her dark eyes eagerly reading his face as though these
unexpected words of appreciation had yielded her renewed courage, like
a glass of wine.

"Really, is that true? Oh, I am so glad. I thought, perhaps, they
were only making fun of me out in front, although I have always tried
so hard to do my very best. You have given me a new hope that I may
indeed master the art. Was that my cue?"

She stepped quickly backward, listening to the voices droning on the
stage, but there remained still a moment of liberty, and she glanced
uncertainly about at Winston.

"Am I to thank you for giving me such immaculate dressing-rooms of
late?" she questioned, just a little archly.

"I certainly wielded the broom."

"It was thoughtful of you," and her clear voice hesitated an instant.
"Was--was it you, also, who placed those flowers upon my trunk last
evening?"

He bowed, feeling slightly embarrassed by the swift returning restraint
in her manner.

"They were most beautiful. Where did you get them?"

"From Denver; they were forwarded by express, and I am only too glad if
they brought you pleasure."

"Miracle of miracles! A stage-hand ordering roses from Denver! It
must have cost you a week's salary."

He smiled:

"And, alas, the salary has not even been paid."

Her eyes were uplifted to his face, yet fell as suddenly, shadowed
behind the long lashes.

"I thank you very much," she said, her voice trembling, "only please
don't do it again; I would rather not have you."

Before he could frame a satisfactory answer to so unexpected a
prohibition she had stepped forth upon the stage.

This brief interview did not prove as prolific of results as Winston
confidently expected. Miss Norvell evidently considered such casual
conversation no foundation for future friendship, and although she
greeted him when they again met, much as she acknowledged
acquaintanceship with the others of the troupe, there remained a quiet
reserve about her manner, which effectually barred all thought of
possible familiarit