They walked on together for a moment in silence, then the sick girl spoke in a cautious manner.
“Mr. Max, that man you just left, has money, I suppose, and he looks like a man who would spend it freely.”
“Well, what of it?” asked Dollie, turning to stare a little.
“I was wondering whether you were wise; you are without friends or money. Don’t you think his proposition was worth considering?”
“What! pay him for teaching me to act!” cried Dollie.
“No, I didn’t mean that,” said the sick girl, slowly, “but——”
“You needn’t go on. I understand you,” said Dollie, her lips curling a little. “Do you think because I am poor I would stoop to dishonor?”
The girl shrugged her shoulders and turned away.
“When you have worn yourself out, soul and body, as I have, you will understand better,” she said wearily. “I have lived an honest life, but what thanks have I for it?”
“You have your own self-respect,” cried Dollie, taking a step toward her.