With King John embarked on his opening speech, Alwynne drew breath again. She ran her eye over the actors, palpitant at their several entrances, saw the prompter still established with book and lantern, and decided that all could go on without her for a moment. She put her hand on Louise's shoulder and drew her into the passage.
"What is it, Louise?"
"Nothing."
"What were you doing just now? Were you scared? Was it stage fright?"
"Oh no." Louise smiled faintly.
"Then what were you doing?"
Louise considered.
"I was dead. I had jumped, you know. I was finding out how it would feel."
"Louise! You gruesome child!"
"I liked it—it was so quiet. I'd forgotten about shifting the scenery. I'm sorry. Does it—did it hurt him, do you think, the falling?"