"That's right!" exclaimed Russ. "I'm just at the beginning of the business. I've learned the projecting end of it so far. Almost anyone can put the film in the machine, switch on the light, get the right focus and turn the handle. But it's harder to film a real drama with lots of excitement in it--outdoor stuff--cattle stampeded--the sports of cowboys--a fake Indian fight; it takes lots of grit to stand up in front of an oncoming troop of horsemen, and snap them until they get so close you can see the whites of their eyes. Then if they turn at the right time--well and good. But if there's a slip, and they ride into you--good-night! Excuse my slang," he added, hastily. "Did that ever happen?" she asked, eagerly. "Well, if not that, something near enough like it. I've heard the operators--those who take the negatives--tell of 'em many a time. That's what I'm going to be soon--a taker of the moving picture plays instead of just projecting them on the screen. Mr. Pertell has promised to give me a chance. He's organizing some new companies. "Just as soon as I get my patent perfected he's promised to put it on his machines. Then I'm going with his company." "Did you hear any more about that man you say tried to steal your invention?" asked Alice. "Who, Simp Wolley? Oh, yes, he's been sneaking around after me, and I told him what I thought of him. He's got another fellow in with him--Bud Brisket--and he's about the same type. But I'm not going to worry about it." "Don't be too confident," warned Alice. "I've heard of many inventors whose patents were gotten away from them." "Thanks, I'll be careful. But just now I'm interested in getting your father to take up this work. I know he'll like it, once he tries it. Won't you come and see the manager? I'm sure he'll give your father a trial." Alice stood in deep thought for a moment. Then with a little gesture, as though putting the past behind her, she exclaimed: "Yes, Russ, I will, and I thank you! I told Ruth I was going to do something, and I am. If father can get an engagement I won't have to go to work. Not that I'm ashamed to work--I love it!" she added hastily. "But I wouldn't like to be a public manicurist, and that's the only situation that seemed open to me. I will go see your manager, Russ, and I'll do my best to get father to take up this work. It's quite different from what I thought it was." "I knew you'd say that," chuckled Russ. "Come on." "What would Ruth say if she saw me now?" Alice asked, as she and Russ walked off together. "She would certainly think I was defying all conventionality." "Don't worry." Russ advised her. "It's the sensible thing to do. And I'll explain to Ruth, too." "Oh, I believe you could explain to anyone!" Alice declared with enthusiasm. "You've made it so clear and different to me. But how do they make moving pictures?"