"It is an insult to an artist," insisted Lawrence, turning to a group of the dissatisfied and disappointed players.
Suddenly the door through the boxes was thrown open and Clayton entered.
"What does it all mean?" he demanded. "The theater is crowded with a lot of people who want to know the reason for the sudden announcement. Why will there be no performance?" he added, drawing Weldon aside.
"I had to do it, Mr. Clayton," explained Weldon, privately. "You see it is not my production—I had to obey the orders of my financial backer."
"You mean—"
"Gordon. Yes."
"I see. Affairs came to a climax to-night," said Clayton. "I suspected something underhanded, but I didn't believe even Gordon capable of such a trick." He paused an instant. "Look here, Weldon, is this theater leased in your name?"
"Certainly," replied Weldon, promptly.
"Then you could give the performance if you wanted to?"
"But Mr. Gordon will not pay the bills unless I carry out his orders," protested Weldon.