SCENE NINTH.
The same persons, the Duchesse de Christoval and the Princesse
d'Arjos.

The Duchesse de Montsorel
Ah! madame, it is extremely kind of you thus to anticipate my visit to
you.

The Duchesse de Christoval
I come in this way that there may be no formality between us.

The Duchesse de Montsorel (to Inez)
Have you read my letter?

Inez
One of your maids has just handed it to me.

The Duchesse de Montsorel (aside)
It is evident that Raoul is also coming.

The Duke (to the Duchesse de Christoval, whom he leads to a seat)
I hope we see in this informal visit the beginning of a family
intimacy?

The Duchesse de Christoval
Pray do not exaggerate the importance of a civility, which I look upon
as a pleasure.

The Marquis
You are seriously afraid, madame, I perceive, of encouraging my hopes?