[Marie Barnard] was a genius in her line. She travelled with us for two seasons, and then went to Paris to prepare for the operatic stage. She has since developed into a good actress under the name of Marie Bama.

When leaving for Europe she promised to find a singer to replace her. In a very few weeks she cabled me, “ Have found fine singer for you.” In due season Miss Lila Juel arrived, young, tall, handsome, and a Swede. She sang with me for two years. It would be difficult to find a better concert singer or a more amiable person.