the tool of the more intelligent minds who were responsible for their success. They succeeded when success was doled out to them and failed when their producers failed them.
Thinking of all this he spoke kindly to Minnie. "You make up very well," he said. "I'll try to use you again."
"Oh, thanks awfully, Mr. Binns."
"Don't thank me. You may regret the circumstances that brought you here." (Which Minnie thought was a foolish thing for a man to say, especially one whom Al had cracked up as knowing so much.)
She watched his retreating figure, shoulders hunched up, hands in pockets, his hat cocked on the back of his head over his obstinate black hair. Funny little man he was but she was glad he had taken such a fancy to her. What with Letcher and Binns (and Bacon wasn't entirely unmoved by her or he wouldn't have placed her among the extras chosen for individual work), she was bound to find it easy sailing in the "movies."
The afternoon brought no definite advance to Minnie. Bacon succeeded only in getting to his satisfaction what he called his "big scene," while Minnie sat all day long, waiting to be called. The interest of watching didn't hold her very long; she was too restless and eager to take part.
Twice Al Kessler drifted over and made overtures, only to be repulsed. He was really pleased to be seen in her company now that the clothes she came in were hidden in the dressing room.
"You certainly look sweet, honey, you certainly look sweet," he murmured in his most caressing tone. "I'm glad Eleanor fixed you up the way she did. But if she hadn't, you can bet I would of done it. I certainly would of, honey."
