"I should say there was," was the reply. "We're in a nice fix. Mrs. Anderson won't play!"
CHAPTER IV.
AL TO THE RESCUE.
"Mrs. Anderson won't play?" almost shrieked Mr. Perley.
"That's what I said—Mrs. Anderson won't play," replied the manager of the combination, with the calmness of despair. "Read this."
The note which he handed his companion read as follows:
"Mr. A. Wattles:
"Dear Sir: I deeply regret my inability to appear this evening as I promised. My husband objects so strongly that I have no alternative but to yield to his wishes. Trusting that this will cause you no inconvenience, I am,
"Faithfully yours,
"Blanche Anderson."