AGNES. He must be a man of small resources. [Threading her needle.] It is so easy to mock.
END OF THE FIRST ACT
THE SECOND ACT
The Scene is the same as that of the previous Act. Through the windows some mastheads and flapping sails are seen in the distance. The light is that of late afternoon.
AGNES, very plainly dressed, is sitting at the table, industriously copying from a manuscript. After a moment or two, ANTONIO and NELLA enter the room, carrying a dressmaker's box, which is corded and labelled.
NELLA. E permess, Signora (Permit us, Signora.)
ANTONIO. Uno scatolone per la Signora (Am enormous box for the
Signora.)
AGNES. [Turning her head.] Eh?
NELLA. E venuto colla ferrovia—(It has come by the railway—)
ANTONIO. [consulting the label.] Da'Firenze. (From Florence.)