He led the way to the stage door, which was opened obsequiously to him; they then passed through a dismal passage, and suddenly emerged upon that scene of enchantment, the stage--a dirty platform encumbered on all sides with piles of scenery in flats.

They threaded their way through rusty velvet actors and fustian carpenters, and entered the green-room.

At the door of this magic chamber Vane trembled and half wished he could retire.

They entered; his apprehension gave way to disappointment, she was not there.

Collecting himself, he was presently introduced to a smart, jaunty, and, to do him justice, _distingue_ old beau.