‘“Where ignorance is bliss,
’Tis folly to be wise.’”
‘Folly or not,’ replied Rose, ‘my eyes have been opened by experience. Once I was ignorant as they, and thought how delightful the life behind the scenes must be; but now I know better. I only wish I could have a quiet chat with some of those stage-struck girls, and warn them before it is too late. The life is only possible for the children of parents who are on the stage. It is the atmosphere in which they have been brought up. But as to other girls, the stage is the last thing they should think of if I had my way.’
‘But what do you object to?’
‘Why, to everything: the language one is obliged to hear; the dresses, which are often actually indecent; the way in which one is persecuted by men supposed to be gentlemen—the free-and-easy way in which they attempt familiarities is decidedly unpleasant. No, I have been behind the scenes; I have no more illusions on that score. I have done with the whole affair. I am off the boards, and I have no wish to reappear on them again.’
‘No money will tempt you?’ said the manager.
‘None,’ was the reply.
‘You will be exposed to no inconvenience, you know.’
‘That is true; but I should have to give my sanction to much that I disapprove of. You must reform what goes on behind the scenes.’
‘Oh, that is impossible.’
‘That’s what I fear.’