"That will be fine!" cried Alice, in her lively manner. "I've always wanted to be carried down a ladder. You won't mind; will you, Daddy?" and she appealed to Mr. DeVere.
"Oh, I guess not, if the ladder is good and firm," he replied in his husky voice.
"That's just the point; it won't be!" predicted Mr. Sneed in his usually gloomy manner. "It's bound to break!"
"Comforting; isn't he?" laughed Alice. "I'm not afraid, Mr. Sneed."
"No, but I am," he went on. "I don't want that part, Mr. Pertell."
"You'll have to take it," said the manager, decidedly. "I have no other one I can cast for the part."
"Can't you give it to Mr. Bunn?" asked the "grouch."
"Eh? What's that? Me carry someone from a burning building? Not much!" exclaimed the tragic actor. "I resign right now."
"Well, I must say neither of you is very gallant," laughed Alice. "Paul, I guess you'll have to rescue both of us!"
"I'd be pleased to do it!" he retorted, gaily.
"Oh, I suppose I can manage it," grumbled Mr. Sneed, fairly shamed into taking the part.
"Good!" exclaimed the manager. "Mr. Bunn,
