A little generosity, and Clara might have helped to soothe the pains of one so much weaker than herself; but noble feeling was extinct in the girl, or so nearly extinct that a breath of petty rivalry could make her base, cruel, remorseless.
'At all events I _have_ got my chance!' exclaimed Grace, with a harsh laugh.

'When you get yours, ask me to congratulate you.' And she swept her skirts out of the room.

In a few minutes Clara put a stamp on her letter and went out to the post.

Her presence at the theatre would not be necessary for another two hours, but as the distance was slight, and nervousness would not let her remain at home, she walked on to make inquiry concerning Grace's news.

Rain had just begun to fall, and with it descended the smut and grime that darkened above the houses; the pavement was speedily over-smeared with sticky mud, and passing vehicles flung splashes in every direction.