"You have done yourself proud, Dean, my boy," said Montgomery, when Dean retired behind the screen. "Our entertainment is a success. Our audience is good-natured."
"I can't help thinking how the folks at home would be surprised if they knew I was performing in public," said Dean, smiling.
"And making money out of it. That's where the best part comes in. Follow up your success, my boy. I shall go out twice and then call on you again."
The next time Dean appeared with confidence, being satisfied that the audience were friendly. His second appearance was equally satisfactory, and he was compelled to blush when he overheard one school-girl on the front row of benches whisper to another, "Isn't he sweet?"
"It seems to me I am learning a good deal about myself," thought Dean. "I must take care not to get conceited."
The dual entertainment lasted about an hour and a half, Mr. Montgomery of course using up the lion's share of the time. At last it concluded, and Dean and his companion gathered up the money and went home. The profits over and above expenses amounted to eighty dollars, of which the editor, according to the agreement, received forty per cent, or thirty-two dollars. The remainder, forty-eight dollars, was divided equally between Dean and Mr. Montgomery. As the hotel charge was but a dollar a day for each, they felt handsomely compensated for their exertions.