Page:Rachel (1887 Nina H. Kennard).djvu/57

 ward to act a part in which lust, energy, and violence rule supreme This delicate girl, this puny overtasked frame, this undeveloped bosom, this troubled tone, could these suffice to represent the stalwart lioness whom we call Roxane? Mademoiselle Rachel appeared, and in an instant the house felt she was unequal to the task. This was not the Roxane of the poet; it was a young girl wandering in the "Seraglio."

So Janin went on in the same strain for two columns, so crushingly antagonistic, that Védel almost made up his mind to yield and defer for some time the second representation of Bajazet.

On further reflection, however, he resolved to keep to his point, if Rachel were not too discouraged by the judgment pronounced so pitilessly.

"The evening came. She arrived punctually. Shortly before the moment of her appearance, I went up to her dressing-room; she was ready, and looked superb in her costume.

Well, my child, how do you feel?' I asked her.

Determined to do my best. I have had my way, but not without a terrible struggle,' she answered, smiling. 'I think it will go better this evening.'

You are not afraid?'

Not in the least.'

I like this confidence; it is a good omen. You have read Janin's article?'

Yes; he polishes me off nicely (il m'habille joliment). But wait; I will serve him out.

The young actress reaped the reward of her courage. She was victorious all along the line. Her success far surpassed anything she had yet achieved. Recalled innumerable times, she was received with frenzied acclamations of applause, while the attendants were obliged to carry away the heaps of flowers that were