Part 102 (1/2)

Playing the clarinet.

MIZZIE (_laughing_)

Why did you hesitate to tell about that?

PHILIP

Because.... Well, because everybody laughs when I say that I play the clarinet. And so did you, too, Countess. Isn't that queer? Did anybody ever laugh because you told him that you were painting for a diversion?

MIZZIE

So you have already heard about that?

PHILIP

Yes, indeed, Countess--papa told me. And besides, there is a floral piece in my bedroom--a Chinese vase, you know, with a laburnum branch and something purplish in color.

MIZZIE

That purplish stuff must be lilacs.

PHILIP

Oh, lilacs, of course. I saw that at once. But I couldn't recall the name just now.

VALET (_entering_)

There is a lady who wishes to see the Count. I have showed her into the drawing-room.

MIZZIE

A lady...? You'll have to excuse me for a moment, gentlemen. (_She goes out_)

PHILIP

That's all right, papa--if it's up to me, I have no objection.

PRINCE

To what? Of what are you talking?

PHILIP

I have no objection to your choice.

PRINCE

Have you lost your senses, boy?

PHILIP