Page:Plays by Jacinto Benavente - Second series (IA playsbyjacintobe00bena).pdf/225

. We had better not show ourselves until the last moment.

. [To ] How is it that you are so early?

. We were anxious to get ahead of the crowd. Later the men stand in two rows at the foot of the stairs

. Yes, but they don't say such things as they do in Madrid. [To ] Are you very fond of bulls?

. I know very little about them. The sooner they are disposed of the more agreeable to me.

. I hope that everything will pass off smoothly.

. I know absolutely nothing about bulls. The mayor was to have presided this year as usual, but there was some trouble at the last minute—an unsavory dispute with the management. They refused to give him the contract to remove the carcasses and dead horses for his brother-in-law, so now I am obliged to assume the responsibility.

. We shall prompt you at the proper moment.

. Remember when the picadors are on, Campos will give a signal. If he lays his finger beside his nose you are to call for banderillas. Three pairs will do, as you know, unless they miss; then give them four. Or if the bull is no good, two will be sufficient. It is all very simple. You will pick it up as you go along.

. In case you are uncertain what to do, the public will advise you. It is the safest way. If they shout "Hi, hi! Wake up there!" or "At him, Governor!" or

. Or call me idiot or fool, I suppose, or something worse? It is all very diverting. After the comedy of yesterday, the tragedy of to-day!

. Unfortunately the bulls have gone stale after