CHAPTER XVII.
PLAIN WORDS.
The entire company seemed in high spirits that night as the time approached for the curtain to rise on the opening scene of the first act.
People were pouring into the theater. Every seat had been sold, and the sign “S. R. O.” was displayed at the box office.
“Methinks this settles it,” spouted Douglas Dunton, behind the curtain. “Prosperity has struck us hard, and we are winners from the word ‘go.’ Oh, this whole company is hot stuff!”
The orchestra began to play, and Frank, made up for his first appearance, came to the peephole and looked out at the audience.
Every seat in the Wilcoxson Opera House was filled. The rear of the theater was packed with those who had paid admission for the privilege of standing.
“By gum! it’s a sight fer sore eyes!” exclaimed Ephraim Gallup, close to Frank. “Don’t yeou think so?”
Frank did not reply, for he was searching the faces of those in the rows near the stage, looking for Sam Hooker.
“There he is!”
Merry muttered the words as his eyes rested on the ruffian.