“Gosh all hemlock!” gasped Ephraim.
Frank knew everyone was watching him, which made his position extremely embarrassing. Indeed, for a professional rehearsals are often far more trying than performances when the theater is well filled with people. It is difficult to act before empty seats, with the members of the company looking on, for then the intensity required at certain times seems foolish, and makes the performer feel ridiculous.
Merry’s face was flushed, and he stammered somewhat at first. Then he heard a low, sneering laugh, and he saw Dunton regarding him derisively.
Instantly Frank stiffened up. He was on his mettle in a moment, resolved to do his best, and he got through the scene fairly well. Of course, Havener had to prompt him several times and give him directions about certain business.
But the stage-manager observed with satisfaction that Merriwell made a good appearance and did not assume any awkward positions, get back to the footlights, or turn in the wrong direction when it was necessary to cross, go up or walk away from another person.
When Frank came off, Cassie was waiting for him.
“Good stuff!” she declared, approvingly. “You did that all right.”
“I think it was pretty bad,” confessed Frank.
“I tell you it was all right. Surely you did remember those lines well. Got any more?”
“I believe I can remember nearly all of the first act.”