PRINCE
What has put you in mind of that ancient story to-day?
COUNT
Ancient, you say? I feel as if it happened last year only. It was at the very time when my own affair with Lolo had just begun. Ah, harking back like that...! And if anybody had foretold me at the time...! You know, it really began like any ordinary adventure. In the same reckless, crazy way. Yes, crazy—that's it. Not that I want to make myself out worse than I am, but it was lucky for all of us that my poor wife had already been dead a couple of years. Lolo seemed ... my fate. Mistress and wife at the same time. Because she's such a wonderful cook, you know. And the way she makes you comfortable. And always in good humor—never a cross word.... Well, it's all over. Don't let us talk of it.... (Pause) Tell me, won't you stay for lunch? And I must call Mizzie.
PRINCE (checking him)
Wait—I have something to tell you. (Casually, almost facetiously) I want you to be prepared.
COUNT
Why? For what?
PRINCE
There is a young man coming here to be introduced.