“Look over there, Ruth,” pointing to where Layton Boardman, a handsome and romantic-looking figure, was talking earnestly to Mary Chase. There was a look in his eyes that was plain for all to read. “Our cowboy friend has fallen head over ears at last!”
Ruth laughed and her eyes softened as she saw the trusting look in Mary’s pretty, upturned face.
“Layton Boardman will wake up now, if he never has before,” she said softly. “And, Helen dear, I am so glad. Poor Mary Chase needs a protector if ever girl did in this world!”
This was the day of Edith Lang’s big scene, and all were agog with interest. The company were all fond of the actress personally, and even the stars of the play never thought to be jealous of her ability.
Miss Lang herself was strung up to acting pitch and feverishly eager for her big moment.
There was some preliminary work to be done before Miss Lang appeared on the scene, but having rehearsed this thoroughly the day before, Ruth gave orders to start work at once.
Everything went beautifully up to the entrance of Edith Lang.
“Now, Miss Lang!” cried Ruth excitedly. “You come on the scene just as the villain—Carlton Brewer in the rôle this time and a perfect example of the marvelous deception of which Levy and a cameraman are capable—just as the villain is in the act of jumping the claim staked off by your daughter the day before. Because she is ill, you have come in her place to protect your property. Panting, exhausted, almost fainting, you still defy the thief— Right! Fine!— He starts to run—you get in his way— Good! Good!— He grapples with you—his fingers are about your throat— You feel yourself choking— Desperate, fainting, your groping fingers rest upon something hard— Good!— His gun— You draw it forth— You——”
Her voice trailed off and with incredulity and anger she stared at the cameramen.
“Go on!” she cried frantically. “Don’t stop here! Can’t you see you are ruining the film?”