Page:Plays by Jacinto Benavente - Second series (IA playsbyjacintobe00bena).pdf/70

 support the ordeal, and at last rise to a state of mystic exaltation, without which it is idle to aspire to a proper interpretation of the sublime masterpiece. After the concert is over, Mme. Wilf will tell you the condition I am in.

. Unfortunately. We apply a cold compress, and bring him to with a strong punch, reinforced with rum. It is a work which can be performed safely only now and then. My son is not able to conduct it as yet.

. Although I have studied since the age of six. My interpretation differs radically from that of Herr Wulf.

. But you are not able to justify your readings. For example, why should the second movement of "The Poem of the Idea" be lento, while you take "Silence" vivace? The ideal interpretation would be one in which "Silence" was not heard at all, while the "Idea" should be passed over as rapidly as possible, with the swiftness of thought. I hope and pray to find an orchestra some day which is capable of catching the idea.

. Fascinating, is it not? What does Your Highness think? What do you think, Comtesse? And you, too, Duchessa?

. [Reviving] Ah! I beg your pardon…

. The Duchessa is still at the Italian opera.

. No, it is difficult to acquire new tastes at my age. Nothing appeals to me so much as "La Sonnambula." As a concert number, give me "La Mandolinata."

. Oh, Duchessa!

. [Aside to ] Nonsense! I know good music when I hear it—and good society.

. Dissimulate.

. Yes, if we are to continue good friends.

. Hush! They may hear us.

. What if they do? They are no better than we