Scan 79
Voice and violin: sketches, anecdotes, and reminiscences by T.L. Phipson, 1898
14 lines. Read by computer on 3 September 2026. Printed page 61. See the scan on archive.org.
1He took me to the back of the stage, where the charming young girl and her mother were seated. She had her violin upon her lap, waiting till her turn should come to be called upon for the trying ordeal. She wore a plain, white, short-skirted dress, which contrasted with her jet-black hair; whilst a pretty pink sash round her delicate waist vied with the crimson flush of excitement upon her cheeks.
3Although she appeared quite calm and collected, she assured me that she felt very nervous and uneasy. I did what I could to tranquillise her; but my efforts in this respect were evidently unavailing, for when afterwards her name was called she did not appear!
5It was an anxious moment.
7At the last minute her courage had completely failed, and she declared that she would not compete.
9This message was communicated to the judges.
11For a few minutes utter consternation reigned, especially among the students, and indeed in the entire audience. Inquiring glances were shot across the room and from face to face. Low murmurs were heard here and there, and a feeling of intense disappointment prevailed, mingled with the alarm that the beautiful girl artist might not be well.
13Four or five young violinists had already played
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