you wake gradually and without shock. Curious that personal peculiarities should extend even to such things. Keen observation, what? Human. C'est humain. [Looks around.] Eh bien! Hello, you dear little boys. [To Agi, who bows profoundly.] Good morning! This would be the brilliant young professor. What? [A pause.] Why don't you sit down? [He sits. The others sit simultaneously.]
Beatrice—[Ingratiatingly.] Did you rest well?
Albert—It is really astonishing how well I sleep here. I don't know whether it's the fresh air, or that excellent bed, or the pleasant surroundings that soothe and refresh me so. A perfect balm to my nerves . . . really I am quite happy here. You may laugh, but it's true that I shall never forget the days I have spent with you here. Dear Beatrice . . . who thinks of everything for my comfort . . . this fine old castle, this gently rolling landscape, the peace, the harmony of the life you live here. . . . Oh, I. . . . All I can say is that I have fallen in love with you.
Beatrice—[Sweetly.] We are very happy, Albert, to know that you are enjoying your visit.
Symphorosa—[Sweetly.] We have no other aim, Albert.
Albert—At night, when I am alone, Beatrice, I think of my poor father and your sainted husband
