very much, but she has been having these delicate attacks for thirty years. And I have seen too many of them to be alarmed. If they strike her standing, she sits down . . . and if they strike her sitting, she rises.
Symphorosa—Karl!
Hyacinth—[Earnestly.] The situation here is much more serious. I warned you this afternoon.
Symphorosa—What a misfortune! [She exits at left. Cæsar withdraws. Hyacinth, Agi and Alexandra are left alone. There is a pause. Alexandra sits on the tabouret, down right.]
Hyacinth—[Severely.] Well, my son, you see what mischief you have done.
Alexandra—[Greatly agitated.] It was my fault, Hyacinth. I am entirely to blame. That is why I stayed . . . to. . . .
Hyacinth—Don't excite yourself, my child. Let us talk it over calmly. That is why I stayed. You have nothing to fear while I am here. [To Agi.] But you have.
Agi—[Sits.] No, father, I'm not afraid.
Alexandra—It wasn't his fault. How deeply hurt he must have been, to do such a thing! I am so unhappy, Hyacinth! [She buries her face in the robe of Hyacinth, who it standing beside her.]
Hyacinth—Calm yourself, dear.
Agi—[Rises; vehemently.] I couldn't endure it
