Scene II.

Conti, The Prince.

Good morning, Conti. How goes it with you? How does art thrive?

Art is starving, Prince.

That must not--shall not be, within the limits of my small dominions. But the artist must be willing to work.

Work! that is his happiness. But too much work may rain his claim to the title of artist.

I do not mean that his works should be many, but his labour much: a little, but well done. But you do not come empty-handed, Conti?

I have brought the portrait which your Highness ordered; and another which you did not order; but as it is worthy of inspection----

That one, is it? And yet I do not well remember----

The Countess Orsina.

True. The commission, however, was given rather long ago.

Our beauties are not every day at the artist's command. In three months, the Countess could only make up her mind to sit once.

Where are the pictures?

In the antechamber. I will fetch them (exit).