“I was, but I came back to Paris because the only birthday present my daughter wanted was to be taken to the theatre.”
He gave a little chuckle and added,
“She has her father’s predilection for the footlights and wanted to see Madame Sarah Bernhardt in Le Passant.”
“Was she very good?” Linetta asked.
“Magnificent!” Mr. Bischoffsheim exclaimed.
He looked at Linetta’s gown and the wrap round her shoulders.
“Have you just come in?” he enquired.
“Just this moment and Blanche is back, but I think she is asleep.”
“Then I am going to surprise her,” Mr. Bischoffsheim said.
“I have a very special present here, one that she has wanted for a long time. Would you like to see it?”
“Yes, of course,” Linetta answered.
Mr. Bischoffsheim glanced at his carriage footman who had brought in a baske
