Page:Plays by Jacinto Benavente - Second series (IA playsbyjacintobe00bena).pdf/42

 rival of Prince Stephen. You can tell it by the humor the Emperor is in. And the Empress!…

. The Empress refused to see us.

. She saw me.

. You are the favorite grandchild.

. The Emperor is furious. When I asked if I could go sleighing in the park yesterday, he forbade me.

. I must obtain the order of the day. Be discreet during my absence. Herr Stirger will remain with you.

. Although I have not yet had luncheon

. I shall not be long.

. Alex! Alex! It's all right. Herr Stirger doesn't mind; we are alone now. He dislikes the Countess as much as we do.

. Wasn't it jolly while he was telling us about the treason of her old ancestor?

. He promised to do it yesterday. We knew it would make her angry.

. Did you notice what she has been doing to her hair?

. Yes, the old cathedral has put in stained glass. Alex, what have you got? Hurry up!

. Before the Countess comes back.

. Here it is… L'Illustration Française. Guess what is in it. Look!

. Give it to me! Let me see.—Watch the door, Herr Stirger. Tell us if any one is coming.

. Perhaps I had better see myself first… Oh, Highness! Where did you get this paper?

. In the Empress's room. She had it hidden away, but I found it.

. You surprise me.