He took a letter from his pocket and handed it to her.
“I am to read this?”
He nodded. She opened it and read:
“Mr. Richard Strong, New York City.
“My Dear Mr. Strong: I have read, with very great interest, a serial story, published in your magazine, entitled ‘Francesca.’ I feel that there is the making of a delightful comedy in the plot of this novel, and I write to ask you whether it would be possible for me to secure the dramatic rights from the author. As the story is anonymous, I appeal to you to put me in touch with the writer in question. I shall appreciate an immediate reply.
“With thanks to you, in advance, Sincerely,
“Charles Frohman,
“Empire Theatre, New York City.”
“Am I dreaming this? Does this mean my book?”
He smiled at her earnestness.
“It does. I came down to talk it over with you and see what you wanted me to do.”
“What do you think about it, yourself?”
“I think it’s a great idea. It will advertise the book enormously. The book will help the play. In the meantime, they both advertise you.”
“A play made of my thoughts? It’s too wonder-