Page:The Tragic Muse (London & New York, Macmillan & Co., 1890), Volume 3.djvu/123

Rh "That I confess I've forgotten. Besides, she was not an actress then. What I remember is that Biddy wasn't particularly pleased with her."

"Why, she thought her wonderful—praised her to the skies. I remember too."

"She didn't like her as a woman; she praised her as an actress."

"I thought you said she wasn't an actress then," Nick rejoined.

Peter hesitated. "Oh, Biddy thought so. She has seen her since, moreover. I took her the other night, and her curiosity's satisfied."

"It's not of any consequence, and if there's a reason for it I'll bundle her off directly. But the great Miriam seems such a kind, good woman."

"So she is, charming—charming," said Peter, looking hard at Nick.

"Here comes Biddy now," this young man went on. "I hear her at the door; you can warn her yourself."

"It isn't a question of 'warning'—that's not in the least my idea. But I'll take Biddy away," said Peter.

"That will be still more energetic."

"Oh, it's simply selfish—I like her company." Peter had turned as if to go to the door to meet the girl; but he quickly checked himself, lingering in the middle of the room, and the next instant Biddy had come in. When she saw him there she also stopped.