The result
seemed satisfactory, for in a voice oily with the softening
influence of feminine charm upon male, he said:
"You've had experience?"
"Yes--a lot of it. But I haven't sung in about two years."
"Sing German?"
"Only ballads in English. But I can learn anything."
"English'll do--_if_ you can _sing_. What costume do you wear?"
And the proprietor seated himself and motioned the waiter away.
"I have no costume. As I told you, I've not been singing lately."
"We've got one that might fit--a short blue silk skirt--low
neck and blue stockings. Slippers too, but they might be
tight--I forget the number."
"I did wear threes. But I've done a great deal of walking. I
wear a five now." Susan thrust out a foot and ankle, for she
knew that despite the overshoe they were good to look at.
The proprietor nodded approvingly and there was the note of
personal interest in his voice as he said: "They can try your
voice tomorrow morning. Come at ten o'clock."
"If you decide to try me, what pay will I get?"
The proprietor smiled slyly. "Oh, we don't pay anything to the
singers. That man who sang--he gets his board here. He works
in a factory as a bookkeeper in the daytime. Lots of
theatrical and musical people come here. If a man or a girl
can do any stunt worth while, there's a chance."
"I'd have to have something more than board," said Susan.
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