But
he promised himself to keep a watchful eye for the future upon this
young gallant, and studied his features carefully, every time his face
was raised towards Isabelle's window, so that he should be sure to
recognise him when he saw him again.
Herode had selected for their first representation in Poitiers a new
play, which all the comedians were very much occupied in learning and
rehearsing, to be followed by the Rodomontades of Captain Fracasse, in
which de Sigognac was to make his real debut before a real public having
only acted as yet to an audience of calves, horned cattle, and peasants
in Bellombre's barn. He was studying diligently under the direction of
Blazius, who was more devoted to him than ever, and who had proposed
something which was a most welcome suggestion to the sensitive young
baron. This was for him to wear what is called a half-mask, which covers
only the forehead and nose, but if arranged with skill alters entirely
the wearer's appearance--so that his nearest friend would not recognise
him--without interfering materially with his comfort. This idea
de Sigognac hailed with delight, for it insured his preserving his
incognito; the light pasteboard screen seemed to him like the closed
visor of a helmet, behind which he need not shrink from facing the
enemy--that is to stay the gazing crowd on the other side of the
foot-lights.
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