Page:Plays by Jacinto Benavente - Third series (IA playstranslatedf03benauoft).pdf/245



. Is your master alone?

. He is, señorita.

. Announce me, or rather—no, you may announce me. Surprises are dangerous, although he will certainly be surprised; I notice that you are surprised yourself. You stand there without knowing what to do or say.

. I? Not at all, señorita.

. Isn't he alone? Tell me the truth.

. Yes, señorita, absolutely.

. Does he expect any one?

. Only a few friends; it is early as yet.

. Of course they always appear. Who is coming?

. Señorito Gonzalo; perhaps three or four others.

. The usual group, I suppose? Señorito Gonzalo never fails.

. The señorita knows.

. Oh, do you know?

. Yes, señorita, I saw it in the paper. You are to be married—if I may make so bold.

. Thank you. Probably you have heard a great deal more here, though, than you ever saw in the papers.

. I pay no attention to what the young gentlemen say. While they are discussing their affairs, I am busy with the service. Besides, they speak French. 211