at the outset, was far from
perfect condition. Her high notes, which had never been developed
properly, were almost bad. But she acquitted herself admirably from
the standpoint of showing what her possibilities were. And Moldini,
unkempt, almost unclean, but as natural and simple and human a soul as
ever paid the penalties of poverty and obscurity and friendlessness for
being natural and simple and human, exactly suited her peculiar
temperament. She knew that he liked her, that he believed in her; she
knew that he was as sympathetic toward her as her own self, that there
was no meanness anywhere in him. So she sang like a bird--a bird that
was not too well in soul or in body, but still a bird out in the
sunshine, with the airs of spring cheering his breast and its foliage
gladdening his eyes. He kept her at it for nearly an hour. She saw
that he was pleased, that he had thought out some plan and was bursting
to tell her, but had forbidden himself to speak of it. He said:

"You say you have no money?"

"No, but I shall get it."

"You may have to pay high for it--yes?"

She colored, but did not flinch. "At worst, it will be--unpleasant,
but that's all."

"Wait one--two days--until you hear from me. I may--I do not say will,
but may--get it. Yes, I who have nothing." He laughed gayly. "And
we--you and I--we will divide the spoils." Gravely. "Do not
misunderstand. That was my little joke. If I get the money for you it
will be quite honorable and businesslike. So--wait, dear young lady."

As she was going, she could not resist saying:

"You are SURE I can sing?--IF, of course--always the if."

"It is not to be doubted."

"How well, do you think?"

"You mean how many dollars a night well? You mean as well as this
great singer or that? I do not know. And you are not to compare
yourself with anyone but yourself. You will sing as well as Mildred
Gower at her best."

For some reason her blood went tingling through her veins. If she had
dared she would have kissed him.

X

THAT same afternoon Donald Keith, arrived at the top of Mrs. Belloc's
steps, met Mildred coming out. Seeing their greeting, one would have
thought they had seen each other but a few minutes before or were
casual acquaintances. Said she:

"I'm going for a walk."

"Let's take the taxi," said he.

There it stood invitingly at the curb. She felt tired. She disliked
walking. She wished to sit beside him and be whirle