“Do you know him? Will he do?”

“I think he will.”

“What’s your name, young man?”

“Ben Bruce.”

“Ha! A good stage name. Have you ever acted?”

“No, sir, except at exhibitions.”

“Are you easily frightened? Can you face a crowd?”

“I am not bashful,” answered Ben with a smile.

“Then come here for rehearsal to-morrow at two o’clock. Mr. Wilkins, you can furnish him with his part.”

“All right, sir. I’ll take him in charge.”