“Oh, no,” he groaned. “And I was beginning to think that Ford Birmingham was a pretty nice guy! Why did he have to do this to me?”
“Because it’s wonderful publicity, that’s why!” Peggy cried. “Oh, Chris, don’t you see? Look at everything he said—about the quality of the actors, and then establishing you as a draw. Why,” she declared brightly, “we’ll have everybody in town rushing up to see you! And they’ll bring their friends. It’s a beautiful idea!”
“Umphm,” Chris moaned dismally. “It’s a hideous idea! However, he was right in his criticism. There were moments when I did feel distant from the part.”
“After this, you won’t even have to act any more.” Alison laughed. “Just be yourself while everyone swoons!”
“Oh, Alison, cut it out!” Chris pleaded, looking around as if a thousand eyes were fastened on him. “I wish Birmingham had settled on you for a drawing card instead.”
“I wouldn’t mind,” Alison smiled, preening a little. “As a matter of fact, I’d probably love it!”
“I’ll bet you would,” Chris muttered, while Peggy frowned uneasily. The conversation was taking an unpleasant turn, she thought, noticing the look Alison gave Chris.
“Well,” Peggy said cheerily, trying to change the subject, “who’s looking forward to Monday besides me? Personally I can’t wait!”
Monday was the day that Mr. Vincent had asked the company to give their first performance at Lake Manor. It would be the last night of the play each week, as Chuck and Richard had decided to move the opening up one day to Wednesday instead of Thursday. This meant also that there would be one day less than usual to get For Love or Money into shape.
Talking excitedly about the Manor, the group finished dinner in good spirits and left the restaurant with Mrs. Brady’s wish for good luck trailing after them.