Count—Very good. Ten minutes. [Takes out his watch.] What time have you got?
Juhasz—[Takes out his watch.] Ten-thirty.
Count—At ten-forty Mate is dismissed or you leave this place to-day. [He exits at back. Left alone, Juhasz scratches his head ruefully. Paula enters at right.]
Juhasz—For goodness' sake, Paula . . . don't come in now . . . every moment is precious. . . . [Pushes her gently toward the door at right.]
Paula—What's the matter?
Juhasz—I've no time to lose now. . . . I've got to hurt someone . . . very much . . . in order to be able to stay near you . . . and protect you. Don't ask me. [Pushes her toward the door.]
Paula—What has happened? [Mate enters at right.]
Juhasz—The Count thinks he knows me. But this time I'll show him he's wrong. Give me your hand. Give me strength. [Clasps her hand.] Go now, Paula, and rely on me. . . . You shall see how strong I can be. In ten minutes it will be over. [Paula exits at right. Juhasz closes the door behind her, pauses a moment to collect his courage, then, without turning to face Mate, bellows at him.] So there you are!
Mate—I've got regards for you, boss, from Budapest. I was in your shop.
