Symphorosa—Now don't be alarmed, dear. He got everything he asked for.
Beatrice—And when is he coming to see the boys?
Symphorosa—I forgot to ask.
Beatrice—[Excitedly.] How could you? Hurry! Run! [Symphorosa goes out swiftly.] She had to forget the most important thing of all! Heavens, and I am sure the boys aren't ready yet. [Starts off at right.]
Hyacinth—[Restraining her.] This won't do, my dear. Calm yourself, don't be over-anxious. Everything will be all right. The boys must have been ready long ago. . . . Really, dear . . . this isn't a bit like you. You always had such poise, such assurance
Beatrice—In times of peace, yes. But this is war! I'll go to meet him. You call the boys. My God
Hyacinth—Calm yourself!
Beatrice—Now, Karl, you only make me more nervous, talking like that. Can't you see I'm in the fever of the last hope . . . the finish of the race?. . . Now I must summon my last reserves of strength. . . . To arms. . . . To arms. . . . To arms! [Symphorosa enters breathlessly.]
Symphorosa—He's coming!
Beatrice—When?
