She had had a rest as Spiller
advised and springing up she attacked her ragged attire with renewed
energy. When Spiller called, she looked so fresh and animated the
comedian laughed and complimented her.
"Gadsooks," he exclaimed, "you clever hussy! It's well our plans are
altered. If Rich not only offered thee an engagement but made love into
the bargain then the fat would be in the fire. He hath a termagant of a
wife. She'd as lief scratch your face as look at you. But thank the Lord
you're safe."
"Safe? I don't understand," cried Lavinia a little flustered. "Am I not
to see Mr. Rich then?"
"Not yet. Didn't I say our plans are altered? The Duke's is in turmoil.
Rich let the theatre to Huddy and his company of strolling players--at
least Huddy says he did--and has now cried off the bargain and Huddy is
turned out. Rich hasn't any play ready so it's no use taking you to
him."
"Oh, how unlucky! I shan't have any chance after all."
Poor Lavinia almost broke down. The shattering of her castle in the air
was more than she could endure.
"Not with Rich just yet. But don't despair. Huddy has taken his company
to the New Theatre and it'll go hard if I don't talk him into putting
you into a part. It may be all for the best. You'd only get a promise
out of Rich whereas Huddy might be glad to get you. He's in a mighty
hurry to open the theatre. We'll go at once to the Haymarket.
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