"Yes. Mr. Wattles came to me and, in the most respectful manner, asked the favor. You see, the woman who has been playing the part was so angered by my wife's success that she refused to appear. I could do nothing but yield, especially as Mr. Wattles assures me that there was a widespread feeling of disappointment on the part of those who were unable to gain admission last night. Mr. Wattles, my lad, considers Mrs. Anderson one of the greatest geniuses on the American stage; he told me so this morning."
Al could not help thinking that the "foxy" manager was overdoing the thing a little; but he did not express any opinion. In fact, Mr. Anderson did not give him a chance to do so, for he went on as soon as he had caught his breath:
"But never mind about all that now. Some day you will doubtless remember with pride that you assisted at the début of Mrs. Anderson; but let us now talk of yourself."
"We might find a more interesting subject, sir," suggested Al.
"It is like your modesty to say so, but I cannot agree with you. Now, my lad, I have taken a great interest in you, and I am going to do what I can to help you along in the world. What do you most need now, Mr. Allston?"
"Good health, sir," laughed Al; "or, rather, a continuance of it. I have about everything else I want."
"Well, I am about to offer you something that you haven't got."
"What is that, sir?"
"A position under the city government, a position with very little work and a good salary. It has never been held by anyone as young as you before, but I haven't the slightest doubt that you will be able to discharge its duties satisfactorily. In fact, it is almost a sinecure."
"You are very kind, sir," said Al, as the mayor paused, "but I cannot accept the position."