Part 22 (2/2)

GWYMPLANE

I shall go with her.

d.u.c.h.eSS

Nay, suspect no more mousetraps. Lead her there yourself; see that she is comfortable among the candles and flowers, then return to me for your own interest and for hers.

[_GWYMPLANE leads DEA out door on left and returns._]

You have had a strange evening for a mountebank--an evening filled with such events as to strain almost any amount of discretion.

GWYMPLANE

I shall not talk.

d.u.c.h.eSS

Not of ourselves, of course. No man, not even a clown, but draws a veil across his rejected flesh.

GWYMPLANE

Well then?

d.u.c.h.eSS

But in that spiritual condition which follows being repudiated your muscles will probably be seeking, straining, to express your mind and the direction will probably be to avenge your blind girl.

GWYMPLANE

All that in my own way, Madame.

d.u.c.h.eSS

And your way will be? Come.

GWYMPLANE

Ah, Madame, I am weary of your commands. Over my actions you have a certain power, but, as my mind and what shall come out of it is still mysterious to me, I am afraid you must share the discomfort of my own ignorance.

d.u.c.h.eSS [_in a more kindly tone_]

Listen to me, clown. You were brought to me tonight to relieve me of a whim, I admit that. And you brought me no relief.

GWYMPLANE [_with sophistication_]

The question interests me dispa.s.sionately, Madame. But, considering you waived my personal defects [_he winces_], just why did I not--please you?

d.u.c.h.eSS

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