Page:Firecrackers a realistic novel.pdf/77

 Gunnar gazed at him compassionately. You'll come again? he inquired.

I've got rings on my fingers and bells on my toes. ..

Will I? Rather! When?

Gunnar laughed at this burst of enthusiasm. If you don't mind, he suggested, wait until after my début. I'm not going back to Shidrowitz, but I've got to work hard here. I must do my part to put the team over. He laughed louder. It's funny when you think of it, he explained. The manager engaged two brothers, and he's getting three! Elephants to ride upon. . . I say! Will you come to see me perform?

I'll be at the Riverside Monday afternoon.

And after that whenever you like, if you like. Do you understand any better?

I'll be damned if I do, but it doesn't matter. It's interesting enough without understanding.

Gunnar rose from the couch. Paul noted to his amazement that tears glistened in the corners of the young man's eyes.

I had almost forgotten the books, he said.

O, keep them! Paul urged, with a brusqueness born of embarrassment.