Page:Plays by Jacinto Benavente - Second series (IA playsbyjacintobe00bena).pdf/130

 able. We have been treated with the utmost consideration. If we had remained a few minutes longer, we should undoubtedly have found that it was our conduct that was incorrect, as it was at the Comte's villa.

. We have failed to preserve our incognito. I heard our names whispered as we passed.

. Amusing, was it not? Those who recognized you said: "Prince Stephen of Suavia out for the night with a cocotte." Those who recognized me: "Princess Helena and her lover—or one of her lovers."

. A great many recognized us both. I wonder what they thought?

. Probably that we were here out of curiosity, or for some improper purpose.

. Well, are you satisfied? Shall we go?

. Have you repented of our adventure so soon?

. I was not thinking of myself, but of you. The world will be full of this exploit to-morrow.

. You are more cowardly than I. You realize that you have made a mistake, but instead of pushing on, you retreat. You remind me of one of those fantastic peoples who overthrow a monarchy because it is tyrannical and establish a republic; then, because the republic does not bring them happiness, they promptly restore the monarchy. But that is not my way. If the republic proved a failure, I should declare for a state of anarchy, but I should never retreat. I am enchanted with this spot. This is life—to be here, to see everything, to shut one's eyes to nothing; to sympathize, to understand…

. Everything? Perhaps that was what induced you to fall in love with Herr Rosmer. It was not the man, it was the opening out of a new vista of life.