''
``I never heard of anyone's graduating from here
into grand opera,'' said Mildred.
``Because our stars make so much money and make
it so easily. It'll be your own fault if you don't.''
``Can't I come to just one rehearsal--to see whether
I can--can do it?'' pleaded Mildred.
Crossley, made the more eager and the more superstitious
by this unprecedented reluctance, shook his head.
``No. You must agree to stay as long as we want
you,'' said he. ``We can't allow ourselves to be trifled
with.''
``Very well,'' said Mildred resignedly. ``I will
rehearse as long as you want me.''
``And will stay for the run of the piece, if we want
that?'' said Crossley. ``You to get a hundred a week
if you are put in the cast. More, of course, if you
make a hit.''
``You mean I'm to sign a contract?'' cried Mildred
in dismay.
``Exactly,'' said Crossley. A truly amazing
performance. Moldini was not astonished, however, for he
had heard the songs, and he knew Crossley's difficulties
through Estelle Howard's flight.
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