Adele—Oh, he does all he can, and so do I, but
Count—And that nice Miss Paula . . . she's an industrious girl, what?
Adele—Your excellency's favorite.
Count—I am enchanted with her. [Paula enters through the archway, with letters in her hand.]
Paula—[With a low bow.] Good evening, your excellency.
Count—Good evening. I was just talking about you.
Paula—Very good of you. Excuse me. [To Adele.] I was not mistaken, Mrs. Juhasz. Semlinger and Weiss offered us also twenty waterproof coats. We have never given them an answer. [Proffers the letter.]
Adele—[Impatiently.] Show it to Mr. Oscar.
Paula—I did. He referred me to you.
Adele—[Crossly.] We don't want any waterproof coats.
Count—Why not? They are very useful things. They keep the rain out.
Adele—If your excellency would like to order one
Count—Oh, indeed, no! I can't bear waterproof coats. [Looks at Paula.] Miss Paula is smiling. . . . Doubtless she's fond of waterproof coats.
Paula—I beg pardon.
