COUNT. There are other things--Song, dance, the opera, and war.

[Since the entrance of the Count the Baron
has removed to a
table at a little distance.

BARON. What are you talking of there?

COUNT. Of war, Colonel.

BARON [rising]. Ay, we like to talk on what we don't understand.

COUNT [rising]. Therefore, to a lady, I always speak of politics; and
to her father, on love.

BARON. I believe, Count, notwithstanding your sneer, I am still as
much a proficient in that art as yourself.

COUNT. I do not doubt it, my dear Colonel, for you are a soldier: and
since the days of Alexander, whoever conquers men is certain to
overcome women.

BARON. An achievement to animate a poltroon.

COUNT. And, I verily believe, gains more recruits than the king's pay.

BARON. Now we are on the subject of arms, should you like to go out a
shooting with me for an hour before dinner?

COUNT. Bravo, Colonel! A charming thought! This will give me an