Page:Rachel (1887 Nina H. Kennard).djvu/36



eight months Rachel worked with unflagging zeal under Samson's direction. A great change came over her during this time. The stunted figure grew several inches, the pale complexion became clear and healthy, the voice musical and capable of every inflexion of feeling. She, as well as those surrounding her, thought the time had come for her appearance before the fastidious audience of the Rue de Richelieu. "On the 10th June," Védel tells us, "Mademoiselle Rachel, who often came to the theatre, said impatiently to me, 'I want to make my début, and have done with this suspense.' 'When you like,' I answered, 'will the day after to-morrow suit you?' She flushed up, and, with a look of delight I shall never forget, replied quickly, 'Yes, it will suit me.' 'In what part will you appear?' I asked her. 'In whatever you like.' 'What do you say to Camille in Les Horaces?' 'Very well, Camille.' 'Go, then, my child, and tell M. Samson that your début will be announced for the day after to-morrow.' 'But I have not got the dress.' 'Don't trouble about that, I will see to it.' Next day I took her myself what was necessary. She then lived