Page:Plays by Jacinto Benavente - Second series (IA playsbyjacintobe00bena).pdf/306

. The doctor says that he is in no condition to go out.

. Pneumonia lurks on the street-corners. It is making a specialty this season of prominent people.

. If the best people are all dying… But are you sure that it is the modish disease?

. I advise you not to take it too lightly. Is he really unable to eat?

. He can swallow nothing—as yet he has strength to resist.

. It seems incredible. Here, take some nourishment at once. What would you prefer?

. But my dear Laura

. We must feed him forcibly. [She rings and a enters] Choose what you wish.

. No, the doctor has prescribed these pills first. He insists that he cannot swallow them either.

. What is that? Give me those pills.

. But my dear Laura

. Open your mouth. How many does he take?

. Two.

. Better make it three for good measure. Come, open your mouth. One, two

. I am choking…

. Water! Water!

. Run quick! A glass of water! He is choking!

. Gracious!… Don't be alarmed; I am better now…

. Wasn't it awful? I was frightened to death.

. Now the other one.

. No, one is sufficient. Thank you so much.

. You cannot accuse us of neglecting you, whatever happens.