But he could not help the turn of events, so he went his way, bitterly disappointed, while Geraldine called into the other room:
"You can come back now, Cissy, for Mr. Clemens is gone. But, you silly girl, why did you run away? I wished you to know him, he is so nice and handsome!"
There was no answer from her friend, and she went back into the room.
There was Cissy, on a low seat in the darkest corner, and presently there came a low, stifled sob.
Geraldine flung herself on her knees by her friend, in great surprise and alarm.
"Oh, my darling girl! what ails you? Are you sick? Did the bonbons disagree with you?"
"No-o-o!" sighed Cissy.
"Then what is it, dear? Are you in trouble? Or were you angry because the manager came here? But this shall be the last of any stage visitors, I assure you! Or do you want me to go away, Cissy?" plaintively.
"Oh, Gerry, you will drive me mad with your questions! I'll have to tell you my guarded secret!"