We should then have been forced into a
common decision as to whether the play should be given up, and,
without reproaches or counter-reproaches, Philip would have learned
that he could not leave all the work to us, and then arrange and
disarrange the plot at his own pleasure, or rather, he would never
have thought that he could. But a plan of this kind requires to be
carried out with perfect coolness to be either justifiable or
effective. And we have not a cool head amongst us.
One thing was clear. I ought to keep faith with the others who had
worked when Philip would not. Charles should not be turned out of his
part I rather hustled over the question of a new part for Mr. Clinton
in my mind. I disliked him, and did not want to introduce him. I said
to myself that it was quite unreasonable--out of the question in
fact--and I prepared to say so to Philip.
Of course he was furious--that I knew he would be; but I was firm.
"Charles can be the Old Father, and the Family Servant too," said he.
"They're both good parts."
"Then give them to Mr. Clinton," said I, well knowing that he would
not. "Charles has taken a great deal of pains with his part, and these
are his holidays as well as yours, and the Prince shall not be taken
from him.
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