Page:Plays by Jacinto Benavente - Second series (IA playsbyjacintobe00bena).pdf/44

. She is better-looking than la Königsberg. How distinguished!

. "Herr Albert Rosmer, with whom the Princess"

. Put the paper down. Your Highness. When you see their pictures on the same page, the rest is suggested. Give me that paper; it ought not to remain in your hands another moment. Suppose this should be brought to the attention of Their Majesties? These French papers stop at nothing which can prejudice a ruling house. France is a country without faith, without religion; it is a blot with its republic upon the face of Europe. Kings and princes should unite against it, as they did in the days of Napoleon. These articles make me blush, they—they— [Continuing to read in spite of himself] Yet there is something about them which is fascinating, the style… These Frenchmen are the devil!

. What does it say?

. Nothing, nothing— Lies! Slander!

. The Emperor!…

. A nice fix we are in!

. Confined to our rooms for a week!

. The storm always bursts upon my innocent head.

. Have you finished the lesson?

. Grandfather! Grandfather dear!

. Alex, what is this? Military salute! I have appointed Your Highness to my body-guard. You have been made sergeant.

. Shall I wear a cuirass over my uniform? Promise to make me lieutenant next year, like Maurice.

. Next year? Wait until you deserve it.

. You will be promoted just as he was—for your fighting qualities.