It was a tired, but happily contented cast that took the encore after the final curtain, and the audience were enthusiastic in their applause.
"And now, for the dance," Polly exclaimed, as they hurried back to the dressing room to change their costumes. "I wish we could go as we are—"
"Why, Polly, you shock me," Betty laughed. "I can't imagine eating sherbet with this beard."
"They are pushing back the chairs; hear them?" Lois said. "Do hurry, Poll."
They finished dressing, and joined their party waiting for them in one corner of the room. Jim Thorp and Bob were extravagant in their congratulations.
"I expect that Lo will be starring in less than a year. How many people have called you a born actress, little sister?" he asked.
"Oh, at least a million!" Lois replied; for she was not to be teased.
"How do you like being a man, Polly?" Jim inquired. "You were so dashing and debonair, that I bet every fellow in the room felt big and clumsy in comparison."
"That pretty girl who played Nerissa was fine. I'd like to meet her," Bob said, "and you must introduce Jim to Betty; I want him to see her without the beard."
"All right; come on, and let's find them; they'll be together," Polly suggested as the music started.