Part 7 (2/2)

[_Laughing_]: Do I really write so badly? And I love so to write. Did you like my note, Alfred--or did you laugh, too?

BEZANO

[_Blus.h.i.+ng_]: No, I did not. Come on, Consuelo.

[_They go, and meet_ ZINIDA, _entering. Consuelo pa.s.ses on._]

ZINIDA

Are you going back to work, BEZANO?

BEZANO

[_Politely_]: Yes. To-day is a very bad day. How are your lions, Zinida?

I think the weather affects them.

CONSUELO

[_From the ring_]: Alfred!

ZINIDA

Yes. Some one is calling you. You'd better go. [_Alfred goes out. To_ BRIQUET] Are you finished?

BRIQUET

Right away.

JACKSON

Then good-bye till evening. Think about your costume, HE, and I shall look for some idea, too. Be here at ten to-morrow. Don't be late, or you'll get another slap. And I'll work with you.

HE

I shall not be late. [_He looks after_ JACKSON _who goes out._] Must be a nice man. All the people about you are so nice, Papa Briquet. I suppose that good-looking bareback rider is in love with Consuelo, isn't he? [_Laughs._]

ZINIDA

It's none of your business. For a newcomer you go poking your nose too far. How much does he want, Papa?

BRIQUET

Just a minute. See here HE. I don't want to make a contract with you.

HE

Just as you please. Do you know what? Don't let us talk about money. You are an honest fellow, Briquet; you will see what my work is worth to you, and then----

<script>