(Another room of the villa, adjoining the throne room.
Its furniture is antique and severe. Principal exit at rear in
the background. To the left, two windows looking on the
garden. To the right, a door opening into the throne room.

Late afternoon of the same day.

Donna Matilda, the doctor and Belcredi are on the stage
engaged in conversation; but Donna Matilda stands to one
side, evidently annoyed at what the other two are saying;
although she cannot help listening, because, in her agitated
state, everything interests her in spite of herself. The talk of
the other two attracts her attention, because she instinctively
feels the need for calm at the moment).

BELCREDI. It may be as you say, doctor, but that was my
impression.

DOCTOR. I won't contradict you; but, believe me, it is
only . . . an impression.

BELCREDI. Pardon me, but he even said so, and quite
clearly (turning to the Marchioness). Didn't he, Mar-
chioness?

DONNA MATILDA (turning round). What did he say?
. . . (Then not agreeing). Oh yes . . . but not for the
reason you think!

DOCTOR. He was alluding to the costumes we had
slipped on . . . Your cloak (indicating the Marchioness),
our Benedictine habits . . . But all this is childish!

DONNA MATILDA (turning quickly, indignant). Child-
ish? What do you mean, doctor?

-110-