Page:Plays by Jacinto Benavente - Second series (IA playsbyjacintobe00bena).pdf/96

 the Comte!… Herr Rosmer, has she told you? Have you influence to prevent it? I have letters from Suavia this very day; they know, they exaggerate. They hear that we are leading lives of degradation and shame, abandoned to play—a perpetual orgy of depravity. Would you believe it? They even say that I have a lover! Only a supreme effort sustains my shattered nerves.

. Further struggle is useless. Her Highness will never be influenced by any suggestion which may be tainted with sense.

. Cousin, may I present the Comte de Tournerelles?

. Highness! I owe you an apology for a most regrettable mistake.

. Stephen! [''Stopping short, astonished. Then to ''] Princess Helena? Impossible! Only yesterday he swore that he would never speak to her again. This will reach the ears of the Emperor,

. I should like you to meet Herr Albert Rosmer—if you have no objection?

. To what? In fact, we have met before. I remember him very well.

. Albert, Prince Stephen wishes to speak with you.

. Highness!

. I have frequently had the pleasure in Suavia.

. Now present me to your wife. Do you hesitate? You have scruples

. No, indeed, I assure you.

. Oh, then she is the one who has scruples? Is she as jealous of her dignity and importance as