Part 29 (2/2)

Remember, Consuelo.

CONSUELO

No. [_Opening her eyes_] I forget everything about it. [_Looks around the room._] HE, do you see what a poster they made for my benefit performance? It's Father's idea. The Baron liked it. [_HE laughs.

Silence._]

HE

[_Slowly_] Consuelo, my Queen! Don't go to the Baron to-day.

CONSUELO

Why? [_After a silence._] How fresh you are, HE.

HE

[_Lowering his head, slowly_]: I don't want it.

CONSUELO

[_Getting up_]: What? You don't want it?

HE

[_Bowing his head still lower_]: I do not want you to marry the Baron [_Imploring._] I ... I shall not allow it ... I beg you!

CONSUELO

Whom, then, would you ask me to marry? You, perhaps, you fool? [_With a rancorous laugh_] Are you crazy, my darling? ”I shall not allow.” HE!

HE will not allow me! But it is unbearable! What business is it of yours? [_Walking up and down the room, looks over her shoulder at HE, with anger._] Some fool clown, whom they can kick out of here any minute. You make me sick with your stupid tales. Or you like slaps so much. Fool, you couldn't invent anything better than a slap!

HE

[_Without lifting his head_]: Forgive me, my Queen.

CONSUELO

He is glad when they laugh at him. Some G.o.d! No, I shan't forgive. I know you. [_Makes same gesture as_ MANCINI.] You have something there!

Laughs ... so nicely ... plays, plays, and then suddenly--hop! _Obey him!_ No, darling, I am not that kind! Carry my train, that is your business--fool!

HE

I shall carry your train, my Queen. Forgive me. Give me back the image of my beautiful, piteous G.o.ddess.

CONSUELO

[_Quieting down_]: You're playing again?

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