Part 16 (2/2)

THE LITTLE DOG

My mother's medal, Sir. I always wear it. I come from the _Palais de Glace_, where I made quite a hit. Imagine! I wanted to bite a gentleman who was speaking to my mistress. _How_ they laughed!

(_She wriggles and chirps_.)

TOBY-DOG, (_aside_)

What an odd creature! Is she _really_ a dog? (_Sniffs_.) Yes ... smells of rice powder, but it's a dog just the same. (_Aloud_.) Sit down a moment, it makes me quite dizzy to see you moving about so.

THE LITTLE DOG

Certainly. (_She lies down, like a miniature greyhound, crossing her fore-paws to show the slimness of her toes_.) You were here all alone?

TOBY-DOG, (_looking toward the piano_)

Yes, no other dog. Why?

THE LITTLE DOG

There's a strange odor.

TOBY-DOG

The Cat, doubtless.

THE LITTLE DOG

The Cat? What's a Cat? I've never seen one. Do they leave you in the room all alone?

TOBY-DOG

It happens so now and then.

THE LITTLE DOG

And you don't bark? _I_ cry as soon as I'm left alone. I'm bored, afraid, feel sick, and chew up the cus.h.i.+ons.

TOBY-DOG

And then you're whipped.

THE LITTLE DOG, (_insulted_)

I'm--what did you say? You're losing your senses, I imagine. (_Suddenly amiable again_.) That would be a pity. You have lovely eyes.

TOBY-DOG

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