creature of God. In my younger days, when I maintained a racing stable, I sometimes found it necessary to enter one horse merely to lead and set the pace for another horse, and at the finish to lag behind and let him win the race. But that was a horse, my dear sister. And whoever seeks to use a man in that fashion; whoever holds the tranquillity of a human soul so cheaply—she, my dear sister, she has great need of the excuse that maternal love impels her. That is my opinion, dear; and now I, too, am going to look at that vacuum. [He exits quickly into the garden.]
Beatrice—[With determination.] Nothing shall hinder me! Stop crying! I command you to put that handkerchief away. I am desperate now. You needn't pay any attention to him. He always had opinions, but never manners. If it had been left to the men of our family we'd have been dethroned as early as the eighteenth century. Go, and send Alexandra in to me. [Symphorosa exits at right. There is a brief pause before Alexandra enters.]
Alexandra—You sent for me, mother?
Beatrice—Yes, my child. You are dearest to me in all the world. My blood flows in your veins. You will understand me.
Alexandra—Yes, mother.
Beatrice—Your will is as strong as my own.
Alexandra—Oh, yes, mother.
