I was, very anxious to do so. This morning I had a telegram from the manager urging me to go to Paris without delay for the rehearsals.”

“And are you going?”

“That is the question. I may tell you that one of my objects in calling on poor Alresca was to consult him about the point. The truth is, I am threatened with trouble if I appear at the Op�ra Comique, particularly in ‘Carmen.’ The whole matter is paltry beyond words, but really I am a little afraid.”

“May I hear the story?”

“You know Carlotta Deschamps, who always takes Carmen at the Comique?”

“I’ve heard her sing.”