“Have you ever worked in motion pictures before?” asked Ruth.
“No, but we all come to it sooner or later, that is if they’ll take us. I haven’t any illusions about it. They may not like me at all. Being an actress on the speaking stage doesn’t always mean that one can make a picture actress. Half the down and out artists of the spoken drama who scorn the movies, couldn’t get in if they tried. But if they give me a contract for a few weeks I’ll have that at least, and then if I’m no good I won’t have to worry about it any more.”
“Has Miss Irwin an engagement yet?”
“No; but she’s doing her best, poor dear. It’s awfully hard in the middle of the season. Angela Peyton-Russell is going to give a Christmas party at their house in the Berkshires. I’ll have her invite you, too. If I work a few weeks in pictures I’ll be ready for a rest. By the way, did you see Percy last night?”
Suddenly Ruth had a suspicion that this was the real reason why she had been called in. Gloria’s tone was almost too casual and she had asked her question without introduction, abruptly in the middle of other things.
“Yes, I met him and he’s awfully nice and good looking, but I told him that I had no relatives and that I am living with friends.”
“He asked then?”
“Yes; I suppose the name made him curious.”
“He isn’t married?”
“If he is his wife was not with him and he didn’t mention her. I’m almost sure that he’s not.”