g," said Morris decidedly. "I'll
have to be a clerk, and stick to business."

"You'll make more money in the end that way, Morris, even if your name
isn't printed in capitals."

They retired into a small room adjoining the stage, to prepare for their
appearance.

The professor rubbed his hands in glee.

"Did you see what a house we have, Mr. de Gray?"

"Yes, professor."

"I think there'll be a hundred dollars over and above expenses."

"That will be splendid!" said Philip, naturally elated.

"The firm of Riccaboeca and De Gray is starting swimmingly."

"So it is. I hope it will continue so."

"Here is the program, Mr. de Gray. You will observe that I appear first,
in my famous soliloquy. You will follow, with the 'Carnival of Venice.'
Do you feel agitated?"

"Oh, no. I am so used to playing that I shall not feel at all bashful."

"That is well."

"I would like to be on the stage, professor, to hear you."

"Certainly. I have anticipated your desire, and provided an extra
chair."

The time came, and Professor Riccabocca stepped upon the stage, his
manner full of dignity, and advanced to the desk. Philip took a chair a
little to the rear.

Their entrance was greeted by hearty applause. The professor made a
stately bow, and a brief introductory speech, in which he said several
things about Philip and himself which rather astonished our hero. Then
he began to recite the soliloquy.

Probably it was never before so amazingly recited. Professor
Riccabocca's gestures, facial contortions, and inflections were very
remarkable. Philip almost suspected that he was essaying a burlesque
role.

The mature portion of the audience were evidently puzzled, but the small
boys were delighted, and with some of the young men, stamped vigorously
at the close.

Professor Riccabocea bowed modestly, and said:

"Gentlemen and ladies, you will now have the pleasure of listening to
the young and talented Philip de Gray, the wonderful boy-musician, in
his unrivaled rendition of the 'Carnival of Venice.'"

Philip rose, coloring a little with shame a I this high-flown
introduction, and came forward.

All applauded heartily, for sympathy is always felt for a young
performer, especially when he has a manly bearing and an attractive
face, such as our hero possessed.

Philip was determined to do his best. Indeed, after being advertised and
announced as a boy wonder, he felt that he could not do otherwise.

He commenced, and