Page:The Bridge of San Luis Rey (Grossett & Dunlap).pdf/59

 thought that my words were intended to be disrespectful to Your Grace.”

“To me?”

“Your Grace is not offended at her humble servant? Your Grace is aware that a poor actress in my position may be carried beyond her intentions that it is very difficult  that everything”

“How can I be offended, señora? All that I can remember is that you gave a beautiful performance. You are a great artist. You should be happy, happy. My handkerchief, Pepita”

The Marquesa brought out these words very rapidly and vaguely, but the Perichole was confounded. A piercing sense of shame filled her. She turned crimson. At last she was able to murmur:

“It was in the songs between the acts of the comedy. I was afraid Your Grace ”

“Yes, yes. I remember now. I left early. Pepita, we left early, did we not? But, señora,