THE TRUTH
A bachelor's apartment.
The bell rings. Presently Luisa enters, followed by the Servant.
Luisa. Is your master alone?
Servant. He is, señorita.
Luisa. Announce me, or rather—no, you may announce me. Surprises are dangerous, although he will certainly be surprised; I notice that you are surprised yourself. You stand there without knowing what to do or say.
Servant. I? Not at all, señorita.
Luisa. Isn't he alone? Tell me the truth.
Servant. Yes, señorita, absolutely.
Luisa. Does he expect any one?
Servant. Only a few friends; it is early as yet.
Luisa. Of course they always appear. Who is coming?
Servant. Señorito Gonzalo; perhaps three or four others.
Luisa. The usual group, I suppose? Señorito Gonzalo never fails.
Servant. The señorita knows.
Luisa. Oh, do you know?
Servant. Yes, señorita, I saw it in the paper. You are to be married—if I may make so bold.
Luisa. Thank you. Probably you have heard a great deal more here, though, than you ever saw in the papers.
Servant. I pay no attention to what the young gentlemen say. While they are discussing their affairs, I am busy with the service. Besides, they speak French.
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