really reproached myself on her account. My mother will scold me for it too. But, happily, it's nothing serious. Good night, Xara. [Extends his hand to her. Alexandra courtesies low.]
Albert—[As if he had just noticed Agi.] Ah, the professor! Good night, Professor. Your discourse was very interesting . . . particularly the manner of delivery. . . . Very original, yes . . . a bit belligerent, but original. As her highness was taken ill so suddenly, I hadn't the opportunity to offer my very humble comment. I would never have supposed that you could be such an insubordinate young fool.
Alexandra—[Uneasily, forcing a smile.] Albert, you are mistaken
Albert—No, no, these astronomical impertinences are very interesting. [To Hyacinth.] He sat down with us quite unassumingly and then with a flourish he lifted us up to the sky . . . and he stayed up there . . . and dropped me with a thud. . . . [To Agi.] But you spoke with spirit. Very smart. . . . Always higher, higher
Alexandra—Pardon me, but your sarcastic criticism is unjust, Albert. He is not like us.
Albert—I noticed that.
Alexandra—[More and more excitedly.] He is a scientist; he is a free spirit. . . . He has the right to speak more freely than we. . . .
