De Freyne was very pleased with her and himself as well. A good many of his friends, several newspaper critics, and others who had a financial interest in the Pall Mall, felicitated him in the foyer on his discernment in recognizing talent among the members of his chorus and incidentally from among the choruses of lesser managers upon whose folds he and his emissaries were always watching and making raids. He went round to the wings to congratulate Alexandra.
"I've only one fault to find," he said. "You coughed twice."
"I've had a cold for some time," was her excuse.
"You ought to take something. See a doctor."
"I will, if it doesn't get better."
"That's right."
Alexandra had on the white wrap which all ladies of the company were expected to wear over their costumes when not on the stage. He drew it slightly aside, exposing her neck.
"Damn fine diamonds, those, my dear. They ought to keep colds away."
He nodded amiably and moved off. Maggy, minus her wrap, rushing toward Alexandra, collided with him.
"Where's your dust-cloak?" he demanded.