Michael was in a condition bordering upon frenzy. The Head-Hunter and his capture was insignificant compared with the safety of the girl.
“If I don’t find her I shall go mad,” he said.
Jack Knebworth had opened his lips to answer when there came a startling interruption. Borne on the still night air came a scream of agony which turned the director’s blood to ice.
“Help, help!”
Shrill as was the cry, Michael knew that it was the voice of a man, and knew that that man was Gregory Penne!
CHAPTER XXXV
WHAT HAPPENED TO ADELE
There were moments when Adele Leamington had doubts as to her fitness for the profession she had entered; and never were those periods of doubt more poignant than when she tried to fix her mind upon the written directions of the scenario. She blamed Michael, and was immediately repentant. She blamed herself more freely; and at last she gave up the struggle, rolled up the manuscript book, and, putting an elastic band about it, thrust it under her pillow and prepared for bed. She had rid herself of skirt and blouse when the summons came.
“From Mr. Knebworth?” she said in surprise. “At this time of night?”
“Yes, miss. He’s going to make a big alteration to-morrow and he wants to see you at once. He has sent his car. Miss Mendoza is coming into the cast.”
“Oh!” she said faintly.