CHAPTER XVIII
BILBY’S TRUMP CARD
Naturally, Ruth went in search of Mr. Hammond the moment she landed on the island where the moving picture company was established. But, as she saw that the Gem was not at the dock, she scarcely expected to find the president of the company at hand—and in that expectation she was not mistaken.
Mr. Hooley, the director, however, told her what he knew about the occurrence that had started Totantora so madly from the island in the canoe. Bilby and whoever it was that backed him in his enterprise were evidently determined to obtain the services of Wonota, the Osage princess, if it could be brought about.
“Looks to me,” said the director, “as though we were going to have some trouble finishing this picture, Miss Fielding.”
“We can’t finish it without Wonota!” cried the girl.
“You don’t think you could rewrite the remaining scenes so that we can keep on to the conclusion?” he asked thoughtfully.
“Why, Mr. Hooley! How about the throne-room scene? Wonota must appear in that. You say yourself that we cannot use anybody in her place.”