same dough; my soul is as masterly as his was. I’m not inferior to him, inferior in no way to him, but still Oh! (Points to Companion.) Ask her how often I stand before this portrait and gnash my teeth with envy, and even weep. (Picks up the poker and bends it.) Tell me, how have I offended fate? Why am I deprived of the powers and rights and all that importance which he had? And if it had to be so, was it really necessary to leave me with a soul like his? Why didn’t they tear out of my heart all love of power, all masterly pride, all blue-blooded caprice? (Enter Servant.)
Companion: What do you want?
Servant: When do you order supper?
Master: In an hour. Tell the Arab boy to be quick! Take up the carpet! Why is he so long with the swords? And the fool? Has he gone to sleep? Wake him and tell him to bring the tambourines. Then light the chandeliers. And don’t forget to burn perfumes!
Servant: Very well, sir. (Exit.)
Friend: All the same I’m sure that if you’d lived in that time, you’d have taken a most ardent part in the movement for emancipation.
