Page:Plays by Jacinto Benavente - Second series (IA playsbyjacintobe00bena).pdf/84

. I am so sorry! I am not on the best of terms with my cousin; I find him entirely too serious.

. Your Highness! You cannot appear at a function at which Prince Stephen is present. You would be obliged to meet his wife, la Königsberg, a comic-opera singer.

. Of course, in my position I am obliged to be particular. Baroness, you amuse me.

. Highness, I am deeply grieved; I must positively give you up. You play havoc with my most cherished convictions.

. Nonsense! We left our convictions behind us when we left Suavia. Tell the Comte that I shall be delighted to accept his invitation and to attend his concert.

. Oh!

. The Comte will be greatly pleased. I bow, Your Highness… Baroness, a word. A moment with you alone…

. Sir! Do you intend to offer me another hundred-franc note?

. No, it is something worth your while this time.

. Sir!

. Don't be nervous. I am told that Her Highness is negotiating a loan. She has encountered difficulties, as the sum is considerable.

. Oh, Baroness!

. Just a minute. How interesting!… So you know, then?

. The Comte will be glad to oblige Her Highness and to assist the negotiations by any means in his power.

. No, no! Impossible! I did not know that the Comte was in this business.