Page:Poet Lore, volume 29, 1918.pdf/110

 First Gentleman.—I said it and I am saying it. It is my last word. (Bows.) I will kill you. (Exit.)

Mistress (Looks after him, when his steps are no longer heard, goes to door and calls to next room).—Bring in the rug!

( brings rug, stops in doorway.)

Mistress.—Try it.

Maid (Looks around).—Has the gentleman gone?

Mistress.—He has gone.

Maid.—The rug will do very well. Why should we worry about the sky outside? A starry heaven is only a decoration. Stars are only simple things.

Mistress.—Are there enough here?

Maid.—More than enough. (A knock is heard.)

Maid (Frightened).—Oh—! Should I take the rug away?

Mistress.—Yes—maybe—leave it here for the time—in any event—

( exit.)

Mistress (When the knocking is renewed).—Enter!

Second Gentleman (Entering shyly and almost timidly). I do not disturb you?

Mistress.—No.

Second Gentleman.—If I should be in the way!

Mistress.—How could you be in my way?

SezondSecond [sic] Gentleman}}.—Truly, it could be possible; but not for long. I come to say good-bye.

Mistress.—To say good-bye? And so suddenly?

Second Gentleman.—Urgent business calls me away. And then

Mistress.—And then?

Second Gentleman.—I am sad here.