"It did well," I said. "Perhaps in my heart of hearts I hoped for seven and sixpence, but six shillings—yes, it was a good hat."
And then I turned to the catalogue.
"Lot 176—Frock coat and vest, dress coat and vest, ditto, pair of trousers and opera hat."
"And opera hat." Well, well. At least it had the position of honour at the end. My opera hat was starred.
LITTLE PLAYS FOR AMATEURS
[Note.—There are only six plots allowed to us who are not professionals. Here they are. When you have read them, then you will know all about amateur theatricals.]
XL. "FAIR MISTRESS DOROTHY"
The scene is an apartment in the mansion of Sir Thomas Farthingale. There is no need to describe the furniture in it, as rehearsals will gradually show what is wanted. A picture or two of previous Sir Thomas's might be seen on the walls, if you have an artistic friend who could arrange this; but it is a mistake to hang up your own ancestors, as some of your guests may recognise them, and thus pierce beneath the vraisemblance of the scene.