[Symphorosa exits at left. She addresses Cæsar.] Where is supper to be served from?
Cæsar—From here, your highness. [He claps his hands twice. A procession of servants enters, slowly, single-file. Alfred, platter in hand, comes first. After him come two lackeys, each carrying a platter, borne ceremonially aloft. In the rear are two Hussars with champagne buckets. Alfred and the two lackeys go to the table and, their backs to the audience, lay the three platters on the table. Simultaneously the two Hussars deposit their buckets on the floor near the wall at right. Then the Hussars take their station to the left of the right hand arch while the two lackeys stand in profile between the arch and the doorway at right. Alfred stands between them, bowing.]
Cæsar—Voilà!
Beatrice—Bravo, Cæsar! [She hurries off into the ballroom. Cæsar bows profoundly.]
Cæsar—[When the door has closed behind Beatrice.] Hussars! [The Hussars come forward. He inspects them from head to foot.] Right about, face! [They obey the order. He adjusts their tunics.] Left face! [They obey.] Very good. [The Hussars step back.] Alfred! [Alfred comes forward slowly, and with dignity.] Son Altesse Royale Madame la Duchesse prendra au lieu du consommé froid du thé chaud. Mais du thé
