Part 19 (1/2)

Leonie (_drawing a paper from her pocket_).

Ah--I brought mine with me. Perhaps it might interest you.

Beata.

Not in the least, my dear.

Leonie.

You are mentioned in it, too.

Beata (_smiling_).

Really?

Leonie.

Only between the lines, of course.

Beata.

Between the lines? What do you mean?

Leonie.

This is the paragraph; the one marked with a blue pencil. Don't be horrified. It will make you laugh, of course. I laughed over it myself.

(Beata _takes the paper, looking firmly at_ Leonie _as she does so. She reads the paper, throws it aside, and looks at_ Leonie _again, without speaking_.) Good heavens, how pale you are! I didn't realise-- Shall I get you a gla.s.s of water?

Beata.

No, thanks. (_Controlling herself with an effort_.) Does Richard know of this?

Leonie.

Oh, yes. Doesn't Michael?

Beata.

Certainly not.--He would have-- Will you let me have this paper?

Leonie.

To show Michael?

Beata.

Naturally. In a matter involving his honour----

Leonie.