Grace.

"I consider that a compliment," replied Nora, laughing. "Hippy says
awfully funny things."

"Look at our little Anne," said Jessica. "She is actually dreaming. Tell
us about it, dear."

"I was thinking of the play," said Anne dreamily. "I do so want a part,
if only a little one."

"You'll be chosen for Rosalind, see if you aren't," predicted Grace.

"Oh, no," said Anne. "Some one else will be sure to get that. Besides,
I'm too short."

"But, Anne, you've had stage experience," said Jessica. "You ought to
get it."

"Not in a Shakespearian play," replied Anne, shaking her head. "I might
not do well at all with that kind of part."

"Never fear, you'll be the star before you know it," said Nora.

By Friday, there was nothing on the school horizon save the cherished
play. Before school, at recess, and even in classes it was the topic of
the hour. To the eager girls the day seemed particularly long, and a
heartfelt sigh went up when the dismissal gong rang.

As the four chums hurried toward the gymnasium, Anne suddenly caught
Grace by the arm with a faint gasp of surprise. Glancing quickly down at
her friend to ascertain the cause of Anne's sudden agitation, Grace saw
her friend's eyes following the figure of a tall, distinguished-looking
man who was just disappearing down the corridor leading to the
gymnasium.

"What's the matter, Anne?" asked Grace. "Do you know that man?"

"No," replied Anne, "but I know who he is."

"He must be a remarkable person, considering the way you gasped and
clutched me," laughed Grace.

"That man is Everett Southard, the great Shakespearian actor," said Anne
almost reverently. "I saw him in 'Hamlet' and his acting is wonderful."

"No wonder you were surprised," said Grace.

"It fairly takes my breath. I've seen ever so many pictures of him and
read magazine articles about him. What do you suppose he is doing in
Oakdale, and at the High School--of all places?"

"Time will tell," said Nora. Then she suddenly clasped her hands. "O
girls, I know! He's here for the try-out!"

"Why of course he is," exclaimed Grace. "Now I remember Miss Tebbs
showed me a magazine picture of him one day last year, and told me that
she had known him since childhood. Besides, he is playing a three-night
engagement in Albany. I read it in the paper last night. It's as plain
as can be. Miss Tebbs has asked him to run up here and pick out the
cast."

"Good gracious," said Jessica. "I shall re