The Opposite House: A Novel — page 113: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

108 Lhe Opposite House. questions, and he silently obeyed. He was con- ducted through an ante-chamber to the stage, where Verja stood in an attitude of despair. “Ah, there you are, Herr Gerrald '’ she eagerly exclaimed, hastening toward him. ‘“ You savior in time of need! Just think—we have no Faust/ I am frantic—fairly frantic !” She pressed her hands wildly upon her throbbing temples. Gerrald gazed at her in astonishment. He did not yet fully understand. “Count Launers has left us in the lurch in the most inconsiderate manner,’ the Russian con- tinued, excitedly. ‘‘ He disappeared ten minutes ago, leaving this note. There, what good can that dome? And even if his friend lay at the point of death ten times over, half an hour——”’ “Would not have permitted him to see him alive,” interrupted Herr von Sallich, gravely. ‘“ Launers was obliged to leave at once——” “And our faust ?” cried Verja, almost angrily. “JT hope Herr Gerrald will supply his place,” said some one soothingly. “Our tallest gentlemen have already tried on the costume, and it hung round them likea bag !” Verja went on, dejectedly. ‘‘ Youare our only hope, Herr Gerrald. Your figure is similar to the count’s, and your appearance, too, would suit the character. ComicbooOoks.c©