‘I have a costume dress here,’ said the Duke of
St. James.
‘And I have a uniform,’ said Lord Mildmay.
‘And then,’ said Mrs. Dallington, ‘there are cashmeres, and scarfs, and jewels to be collected. I see, however, you think it impossible.’
‘I fear so. However, we will think of it. In the meantime, what shall we do now? Suppose we act a fairy tale?’
‘None of the girls can act,’ said Mrs. Dallington, with a look of kind pity.
‘Let us teach them. That itself will be an amusement. Suppose we act Cinderella? There is the music of Cendrillon, and you can compose, when necessary, as you go on. Clara Howard!’ said May Dacre, ‘come here, love! We want you to be Cinderella in a little play.’
‘I act! oh! dear May! How can you laugh at me so! I cannot act.’
‘You will not have to speak. Only just move about as I direct you while Bertha plays music.’
‘Oh! dear May, I cannot, indeed! I never did act. Ask Eugenia!’