Alexandra—You say that, too? I don't understand any of you. Is there anything the matter with me?
Hyacinth—No, my child.
Alexandra—And you don't believe it was love either?
Agi—No, your highness.
Alexandra—But I
Hyacinth—You don't understand yourself, my child. It was pity that stirred in you last night. And at half past two it expressed itself in that bitter kiss.
Alexandra—Bitter?
Hyacinth—It wasn't me you kissed, and yet I know it was bitter.
Alexandra—I am very unhappy, Hyacinth. But when you talk to me like this . . . if you would only stay on a day or two longer and keep talking to me like this . . . then I should feel better.
Hyacinth—I'll stay, my child. I'll stay three days more to keep you cheerful; I'll stay four days
Agi—Permit me to take my leave. [Bows.] Your highness. [Nervously takes leave of Hyacinth.]
Alexandra—[Cannot bring herself to let him go like this.] I admire your calm. Your mastery of yourself. Yet I know you are only pretending.
