“I took it,” answered his companion. “You see, dear boy, I'm a professional.”
“A what?”
“A professional—singer and clog-dancer. I believe I am pretty well known to the public,” continued Signor Orlando complacently. “Last summer I traveled with Jenks & Brown's circus. Of course you've heard of THEM. Through the winter I am employed at Bowerman's Varieties, in the Bowery. I appear every night, and at two matinees weekly.”
It must be confessed that Phil was considerably impressed by the professional character of Signor Orlando. He had never met an actor, or public performer of any description, and was disposed to have a high respect for a man who filled such a conspicuous position. There was not, to be sure, anything very impressive about Signor Orlando's appearance. His face did not indicate talent, and his dress was shabby. But for all that he was a man familiar with the public—a man of gifts.
“I should like to see you on the stage,” said Phil respectfully.
“So you shall, my dear boy—so you shall. I'll get you a pass from Mr. Bowerman. Which way are you going?”
“I don't know,” answered Phil, puzzled. “I should like to find a cheap boarding-house, but I don't know the city.”
“I do,” answered Signor Orlando promptly. “Why not come to my house?”
“Have you a house?”
“I mean my boarding-house. It's some distance away. Suppose we take a horse-car?”