Orlando_ to her
_Rosalind_. Then the contrast between her acting and that of her amateur
company need not be so conspicuous. He also proposed that she secure the
assistance of a professional stage manager to assist in the training of
her players.

In the beginning of their discussion concerning the production of "As
You Like It," Mrs. Burton had announced as insurmountable the obstacle
that the cast required a greater number of men than of women characters.
It appeared that the girls already had considered this fact and were
prepared with a proposal.

Peggy and Bettina had talked the matter over quietly with Lieutenant
Carson on the night of their dance, begging him not to speak of it if
nothing came of their idea. But they were thus able to report that
Lieutenant Carson believed his commanding officer would permit a few of
the soldiers to act with them in "As You Like It," provided the
rehearsals did not interfere with their army work.

Later, when the performance became an actual possibility, Lieutenant
Carson inquired among his soldier companions until he discovered the men
who had some past dramatic experience and would also be acceptable in a
social way.

Besides the soldiers Mrs. Burton later on invited Felipe Morris and
Merton Anderson to become members of her cast.

Merton Anderson declined. No one knew the reason for his refusal except
Sally Ashton, who, as a matter of fact, had begged him not to take part.
Personally she did not approve of the outdoor play and had no idea of
making the effort necessary to portray the least important character.
Therefore Sally did not wish her latest admirer to become involved in
an interest which would separate him from her society.

Felipe Morris appeared delighted to take part, and it was his aid which
Mrs. Burton desired. She was confident that he would be able to act with
unusual grace and self-assurance for a novice, and at least he possessed
good looks and a naturally artistic temperament.

Moreover, Mrs. Burton and Felipe's father had become good friends, so
that she believed that Mr. Morris would be pleased to have Felipe drawn
into an intimate association with certain of the soldiers of the
National Guard, trusting that they might influence him. Personally Mrs.
Burton thought the one thing necessary was to entice Felipe away from
his music and his indolent dreaming into the world of real men where he
would awaken to his duty.

She knew of his friendship with