Page:Poet Lore, volume 29, 1918.pdf/108

Mistress.—But how?

Maid.—A little patience, gracious lady. (Runs out.)

Mistress (Gazing out of window).—Twilight— Soon the stars will shine. What if the ninth night of all nights should prove a disappointment?

(Maid returns with a rug.)

Mistress.—What is that?

Maid.—The sky and stars. (Spreads out the rug.) We will put it on the window. Isn’t it the sky?

Mistress.—Trickster!

Maid.—Isn’t that the sky, and aren’t there nine stars? Just count them.

Mistress.—Nine stars on a rug are not nine stars in the heavens.

Maid.—There is so little difference. And when we wish to be convinced, we can be convinced easily. (Steps are heard.)

First Gentleman.—Madame—! (To Maid.) And you— What does this rug mean?

Maid.—(Silently bows, lays aside rug, tries to depart.)

First Gentleman.—Well? Oh! I observe everything. What does it mean?

Mistress.—Well, speak, Blanche, if the sight of an old rug interests him so much.

Maid.—I was to clear away all the old rubbish and I thought it was a pity to throw away this rug. It is still a fine rug.

First Gentleman.—Take it away.

(Maid leaves.)

First Gentleman (Approaching lady impressively).—Do you love me yet?

Mistress (Resignedly).—Oh, of course!

First Gentleman.—I have no peace of mind.