Part 26 (1/2)

CONSUELO

Please don't. Alfred didn't hit me. It's a silly thing, what I told you.

What an idea! He is so sorry himself....

BRIQUET

I shall tell him anyhow that----

CONSUELO

Don't you dare. You mustn't tell him anything. He didn't do a thing.

MANCINI

[_Still excited_]: He must beg her pardon, the brat.

CONSUELO

He's already asked me to forgive him. How silly you all are! I simply cannot work to-day and I got nervous. What nonsense! The silly boy asked me to forgive him, but I didn't want to. HE, dear, good morning! I didn't notice you. How becoming your tie is! Where are you going, Briquet? To Alfred?

BRIQUET

No, I am going home, dear child. Zinida asked me to give you her love.

She will not be here to-day, either. [_He goes out._]

CONSUELO

Zinida is so nice, so good. Father, why is it that everybody seems so nice to me? Probably because I am going away soon. HE, did you hear the march that Tilly and Polly will play? [_Laughs._] Such a cheerful one.

HE

Yes. I heard it. Your benefit performance will be remarkable.

CONSUELO

I think so, too. Father I am hungry. Have them bring me a sandwich.

HE

I'll run for it, my Queen.

CONSUELO

Please do, HE. [_Loudly_] But not cheese. I don't like it.

[MANCINI _and_ CONSUELO _are alone_. MANCINI, _lying back comfortably in an armchair, scrutinizes his daughter with a searching eye_.]

MANCINI

I find something particular in you to-day, my child. I don't know whether it is something better or worse. You cried?