` We shall see . It would be pleasant to me to know that when I quit the stage I leave behind me a well-trained , faithful , gifted comrade to more than fill my place , and carry on what I have much at heart -- the purification of the stage . Perhaps you are she ; but remember , mere beauty and rich costumes do not make an actress , nor are the efforts of a clever little girl to play great characters real art . It is all dazzle and sham , and a disgrace and disappointment now . Why will the public be satisfied with opera bouffe , or the trash called society plays when a world of truth and beauty , poetry and pathos lies waiting to be interpreted and enjoyed ? ' Miss Cameron had forgotten to whom she spoke , and walked to and fro , full of the noble regret all cultivated people feel at the low state of the stage nowadays . ` That 's what Uncle Laurie says ; and he and Aunt Jo try to plan plays about true and lovely things -- simple domestic scenes that touch people 's hearts , and make them laugh and cry and feel better . Uncle says that sort is my style , and I must not think of tragedy . But it 's so much nicer to sweep about in crowns and velvet trains than to wear everyday clothes , and just be myself , though it is so easy . ' ` Yet that is high art , child , and what we need for a time till we are ready for the masters . Cultivate that talent of yours . It is a special gift , this power to bring tears and smiles , and a sweeter task to touch the heart than to freeze the blood or fire the imagination . Tell your uncle he is right , and ask your aunt to try a play for you . I 'll come and see it when you are ready . ' ` Will you ? Oh ! will you ? We are going to have some at Christmas , with a nice part for me . A simple little thing , but I can do it , and should be so proud , so happy to have you there . ' Josie rose as she spoke , for a glance at the clock showed her that her call was a long one ; and hard as it was to end this momentous interview , she felt that she must go .
Catching up her hat she went to Miss XXXXX , who stood looking at her so keenly that she felt as transparent as a pane of glass , and coloured prettily as she looked up , saying , with a grateful little tremor in her voice : ' I can never thank you for this hour and all you have told me .
Cameron Jo Josie Laurie actress disgrace fire fro heart right