Albert—We have contrived . . . something more beautiful. . . . Love that comes after marriage. The deeper and stronger happiness that . . . that
Hyacinth—That comes later and endures longer.
Albert—Extraordinary that you can always express one's innermost thoughts so neatly. Think of this: Katherine of Württemberg was the happiest wife in the world. And yet hers was one of those compulsory marriages which Napoleon[Looks around] Napole. . . . But happy, you see, nevertheless.
Alexandra—[Sighs.] Nevertheless. [There it a pause. Dominica enters.]
Dominica—My dear Alexandra. [Embraces her.]
Alexandra—Welcome, Aunt Dominica. [Kisses her hand with profound reverence.]
Dominica—Tell me, my dears, hasn't the professor come yet?
Hyacinth—Oh, yes; he was here.
Dominica—Well? Hyacinth—And he has gone away. [A long silence.]
Dominica—What does this silence mean? Why don't you speak? [Another silence during which Beatrice enters.]
Beatrice—[Regards the silent group; terror
