Part 30 (2/2)

You would suggest that she permitted herself to be--discovered?

PHEDRO

Yes, her apartment was honeycombed with indiscretions.

1ST COURTIER [_sharply_]

But what did that matter? Who plucked them out?

PHEDRO

The Queen.

3D COURTIER

What an appalling mischance!

A LADY

It is an outrage! People who are lazy enough to be found out are a menace to all of us.

3D COURTIER

A gentleman will hardly know where he is safe when the d.u.c.h.ess of Beaumont can allow such an occurrence.

PHEDRO

I am afraid I must make my exit from this troubled surface and scrutinize more silent things. [_Pause. Half to himself_] I wonder how a man looks who has slept well among the touch and glide of fishes.

A LADY

What sort of horrible, wriggly thing are you saying, Phedro?

PHEDRO

I am tasting my own cooking. It is delicious. However, enough public reverie. When the d.u.c.h.ess comes, announce her to the Queen in whatever manner fits your inclination. Take a good breath of bad manners. It will refresh you all. [_he glances at his watch_] Ah, I shall be late for a certain melancholy addition of facts.

LADIES

What facts?

PHEDRO

You shall see. I have only read you the prologue.

[_He exits, almost b.u.mping into the d.u.c.h.eSS, who sweeps by him into the room. The courtiers stand about perfectly limp, enjoying their indifference._]

<script>