Page:Firecrackers a realistic novel.pdf/104

 consummate dexterity, but also there was a rhythm in his movement, a continuity which, Campaspe reflected, she had never before witnessed save in the dancing of Nijinsky. And there was still something else. . ..

Isn't he lovely! Consuelo cried.

The act continued in all its familiar routine, including the swift run of the performers to the footlights, with the terminal raising of the right arm, a traditional gesture which has persisted since the days of the Roman circus, even when there is no public enthusiasm to encourage it. On this occasion, assuredly, there was very little enthusiasm. Not only did the Brothers Steel occupy the final position on the bill, but also they were acrobats. Ignominy in vaudeville could scarcely sink to a lower level. Individual spectators continued to file out, and the theatre was nearly empty when the brothers were going through their last evolutions, in complicated mazes of pleached arms and legs. These, at length, came to an end and the curtain fell, nor did it rise again in response to the faint championship, most of which was contributed by the tiny hands and inadequate physical force of Consuelo. Then, abruptly, to the accompaniment of a jolly tune by George Gershwin, the asbestos curtain was lowered.

It's over, Consuelo sighed.

It was very nice, Vera conceded, very. Still, Miss Bayes. . ..