Page 89 - 1923 Hartridge

“ But Dame Nemesis, I’m sure we have them. They’re the best seats. Can’t we, please? 1 know they belong to us!
I ’he usher, though young, smiles sardonically. The good Dame makes visible efforts to be calm.
“Now who knows best about it? I, the usher, or you who have not seen the tickets? Waste no more time. People are arriving.”
Reluctant obedience.
At last all are seated; turmoil ceases, and conversation subsides to
comments on an unconvincing bust of “ some president,” the nature of stage decorations, the probable attractiveness of the first violinist. This specula­ tion is based on reports from one who thinks “ he may be the one she heard once. n
The artists appear and the first number arouses enthusiasm. From the left:
“Oh, Dame Nemesis, isn’t he cute?” “ Who?”
“The cellist.”
U
((Not precisely, Acanthis.”
Oh, / think he is” (ardently). From, the right:
“Oh, Dame Nemesis, isn’t he cute?” “ Who?”
“The second violin.”
“ Do you think so ?”
“Oh, yes; awfully!” (With fervor.) From the rear:
“Dame Nemesis, I love the little one with the viola. (Melting tones.) “Don’t you think so?y5
He’s so cute!
“Well, perhaps.”
“ Dame Nemesis, my arctics are simply soaked through!” “Why didn’t you take them right off, Amaryllis?”
“I’m afraid I’ll forget them.”
ril remind you.’
More music, further enthusiasm. All the musicians are “ cute,” save
one unfortunate who is pronounced “ conceited.”
Page 83