[_Full of fear_.] Gertrude!!!

George.

I must speak with you!

Marie.

Speak; I am listening.

George.

Why this tone? Does it perhaps mean that between us all is over?

Marie.

If it is or is not, it matters little.

George.

Am I, then, to understand----

Marie.

My G.o.d! Have you not Gertrude? But now I saw her in your arms! What do you want with me?

George.

I must speak with you----

Marie.

Not now----

Gertrude.

[_Re-enters_.] Here are the hairpins. [Marie _takes them_.] I have also brought my dressing-sacque and combs. Now we will excuse you for a little while, George dear. You can give your judgment later.

George.

[_With a glance at_ Marie.] May I not remain?

Gertrude.

No, no. You would criticise and find fault, and embarra.s.s Marie, and me, too. Now be good, George, and go into the garden. [George _exits_.]

Marie.

[_Holding sacque_.] Will you put this on?

Gertrude.

No, I will put it around me.

Marie.

As you please. How do you want your hair dressed, high or low?

Gertrude.

But Marie, we had decided upon that! Have you forgotten?

Marie.

Oh, pardon me--I--of course we had!

Gertrude.

Then give me a kiss!

[Marie _suddenly takes her head in both hands and stares at her_.]

Gertrude.

[_Frightened_.] Why do you look at me so strangely?

Marie.

[_Embraces her fiercely_] My darling!!!!

Gertrude.

Oh, you hurt me!

Marie.

Perhaps you hurt me, too----

Gertrude.

I? How so?

Marie.

[_Has begun to comb_.] How can you ask? You are about to be married--and--and--I--I am jealous of you!

Gertrude.

Just wait, Marie, dear. [_Sings_.]