DON CARLOS. - I

Was stupid to get angry.

LAURA. - You admit

That you were stupid - let us make our peace.

DON CARLOS. Forgive me, Laura; it was all my fault.

But still you know I cannot hear that name

With equanimity.

LAURA. - Am I to blame

If that name's on my tongue at every moment?

GUEST. Come, Laura, as a sign your anger's passed,

Sing once again.

LAURA. - I'll sing a good-night song.

'Tis time - for night has come. What shall I sing?

Ah! listen. (Sings.)

ALL. - Charming! Matchless! How sublime!

LAURA. Good night, my friends.

GUESTS. - Good night and thanks,

sweet Laura.

(They go out. LAURA stops DON CARLOS.)

422 - dramatic writings

LAURA. You utter madman, you! Remain with me.

You took my fancy; you reminded me

Of Don Juan, the way you rated me

And set your teeth and ground them.

DON CARLOS. - Lucky mam

You loved him then? (LAURA nods.) You loved him

deeply?

LAURA. Deeply.

DON CARLOS. And do you love him now?

LAURA. - This very minute?

Why, no. I cannot love two men at once.

It's you I love at present.

DON CARLOS. - Tell me, Laura,

How old are you?

LAURA. - I am eighteen, my friend.

DON CARLOS. O Laura, you are young... and will be