Page:Plays by Jacinto Benavente - Second series (IA playsbyjacintobe00bena).pdf/265

 nice boy, apt to learn; but that is all. Your father is an intelligent man; he has knowledge of the world, he has address…

. We realize it fully. All he lacks is inspiration, which I have been unable to supply.

. However, do not distress yourself. He has just been offered the direction of the new company in Paris, which, in fact, was his idea. It will control the world very shortly, because of the nature of its business, dominating the banks and consequently the politics and destinies of Europe; yet, instead of encouraging him to accept, you are in a panic for fear that, possibly, you may be obliged to move, to leave Spain.

. María Antonia and I are not ambitious. We are sufficiently well-to-do to be able to afford the luxury of remaining here at home among our friends, and the associations which have always been ours. Gonzalo has accepted the chairmanship for Madrid, and is entirely satisfied.

. Yes, why go to Paris? Do you wish us to separate?

. Oh, go along. Your father might find Pepe employment in some confidential capacity.

. My husband in Paris? No, thank you. His theatrical tastes have already been cultivated.

. Theatrical tastes? You surprise me.

. María Antonia is very silly.

. How absurd! I suppose you are jealous because your husband has attended the theatre once or twice, and one of your friends has had the bad taste to mention it. Ridiculous!

. Yes, I am ridiculous, I am jealous, and I am a woman! I should like to have my husband stay at home alone by me, and be satisfied. I have not the skill to make a Napoleon out of my husband, or a Bismarck, or any