EDSTASTON. Yes; but the Empress has seen me.
CLAIRE. She has fallen in love with you!
EDSTASTON. How did you know?
CLAIRE. Dearest: as if anyone could help it.
EDSTASTON. Oh, don't make me feel like a fool. But, though it does sound conceited to say it, I flatter myself I'm better looking than Patiomkin and the other hogs she is accustomed to. Anyhow, I daren't risk staying.
CLAIRE. What a nuisance! Mamma will be furious at having to pack, and at missing the Court ball this evening.
EDSTASTON. I can't help that. We haven't a moment to lose.
CLAIRE. May I tell her she will be knouted if we stay?
EDSTASTON. Do, dearest.
- He kisses her and lets her go, expecting her to run into the house.
CLAIRE [pausing thoughtfully]. Is she—is she good-looking when you see her close?
EDSTASTON. Not a patch on you, dearest.
CLAIRE [jealous]. Then you did see her close?
EDSTASTON. Fairly close.
CLAIRE. Indeed! How close? No: that's silly of me: I will tell mamma. [She is going out when Naryshkin enters with the Sergeant and a squad of soldiers.] What do you want here?
- The Sergeant goes to Edstaston: plumps down on his knees: and takes out a magnificent pair of pistols with gold grips. He proffers them to Edstaston, holding them by the barrels.
NARYSHKIN. Captain Edstaston: his Highness Prince Patiomkin sends you the pistols he promised you.
THE SERGEANT. Take them, Little Father; and do
