Mrs. Wilkinson glanced at the names on the program. “I see Ruth is in the play,” she said, addressing Mrs. Henry.
“Yes,” replied the latter, remembering Marjorie’s desire to keep the knowledge of her participation from her parents.
Jack was impatient for the play to begin; but he did not conceal the fact that his interest was centered in Ruth. His enthusiasm, however, failed to find a response in John, who hoped that since Marjorie was not in the play, she might come and sit with them. For some minutes he tried to save a seat beside him, but as the theater became more crowded, he abandoned the idea.
Finally, the school orchestra began to play, and soon after that the play commenced. There was no curtain; the characters entered from behind the platform.
When Mrs. Wilkinson saw Marjorie, she exclaimed aloud, “Look, Sam! Can that be our Marjorie?”
John also leaned forward intently. Mrs. Henry watched him, smiling.
“By George, it is!” cried Jack. “And she looks ripping, too!”
Marjorie did more than look “ripping,” as her brother expressed it. The culmination of events, the recent successes, the gratification of her dearest wishes, and the excitement of the moment, so inspired her that she entered, for the time, into the peculiar state of mental detachment which actors sometimes experience. From the instant she came upon the stage until the end, she ceased to exist as Marjorie Wilkinson, so completely did she enter into the spirit of Everygirl; and yet, subconsciously, she seemed to realize that this was to be the final, crowning achievement. Strangers exclaimed at her ability, and the whole audience again and again applauded the talent she displayed in her acting. Once more Marjorie was the heroine of the day; but, unlike the time of the basket-ball game, Ruth was not jealous. It was she who had suggested her for the part, and she rejoiced in her triumph. The old friendship was revived with a new meaning; Ruth had profited by her experiences.
After the play was over, and everyone had congratulated Marjorie, Jack turned to Mrs. Henry and asked whether Ruth might not be allowed to ride home in their machine.
“If she wants to,” agreed Mrs. Henry. And it was plain to be seen from the girl’s expression that she needed no second invitation.