human
Of course, he ventured,
gpt
I could try for more at the 'Alhambra.' Very likely they would give----
human
I should be satisfied with the sum you mention, Anna said quietly,
gpt
Don't use such a word, my dear young lady, Mr. Earles said persuasively.
human
Difficulties indeed. We'll make short work of them.
gpt
I hope that you may, Anna answered enigmatically.
human
In the first place, I have no objection to the posters, as they have no name on them, but I do not wish to appear at all upon the stage as 'Alcide.' If you engage me it must be upon my own merits. You are taking it for granted that I am 'Alcide.' As a matter of fact, I am not.
gpt
Excuse me, Mr. Earles said,
human
Call it what you like, Anna answered.
gpt
I can sing the songs 'Alcide' sang, and in the same style. But I will not be engaged as 'Alcide' or advertised under that name.
human
By Jove! he exclaimed.
gpt
Of course, I remember now. It was your sister who married Sir John Ferringhall the other day, wasn't it?
human
It was,
gpt
You needn't say a word more, Mr. Earles declared.
human
I see the difficulty. The old fool's been working on you through your sister to keep off the stage. He's a prig to the finger-tips, is Sir John--doesn't know what an artist is. It's awkward, but we'll get round it somehow. Now I'll tell you what I propose. Let me run you for six months. I'll give you, say, thirty-five guineas a week clear of expenses, and half of anything you earn above the two turns a night. What do you say?
gpt
I agree, Anna said coldly,
human
Better say six,
gpt
Four, Anna decided firmly.
human
I shall not agree to six.
gpt
It scarcely gives me a chance, Mr. Earles said, with a resigned sigh,
human
You must also put in the agreement, Anna said,
gpt
Come this way,
human
Go to the far corner, he said,