There was a halo of romance about the theater to Ben’s eyes, and he felt that he should be proud of treading the boards in even so humble a rôle as that of newsboy.
“Come along, then! I will introduce you to the manager. The play is to be produced for the first time to-morrow evening. We thought we had a boy engaged, but he hasn’t shown up and we can’t wait for him.”
CHAPTER XVIII.
REHEARSING.
Ben’s companion led the way through the stage door into the green-room. He appeared to be known, for he was at once admitted by the door-keeper.
“Is the manager in?” asked the author.
“Yes, Mr. Wilkins.”
“There he is,” he added, as a pleasant-looking gentleman emerged from the wings.
“Halloa, Wilkins,” said the manager. “How shall we manage about the boy?”
“I have brought you one,” replied Wilkins, calling attention to Ben.