Page:Fashions for Men And The Swan Two Plays (NY 1922).pdf/235

 —Because your highness believes in miracles, too You believe my cold and impassive face cold and impassive even when it is slapped.

—[In surprise.] Is your face slapped?

—Every day.

—Who slaps your face? [He does not answer.] Who? Do we? Do I? [He nods his head.] Without knowing it?

—They are the worst slaps of all.

—I must say this is more mysterious than the stars. Do I hurt you?

—Every day your highness looks upon a miracle. A man's face, his voice, all his outward appearance remain calm and unruffled while inwardly he burns. And you never ask for the explanation of the miracle.

—The explanation?

—[With rising passion.] Why does your highness suppose I endure it all? Why do I go on teaching, humbly, silently and submissively? Why do I stifle my individuality? Why am I here at all? [ enters at left with two ladies.]

—I never thought

—[Good-humoredly interrupts.] An ideal daughter of the house! Before the concert she looks after the musicians, and before supper she looks after the table. Her watchful eye is everywhere.