THE DAUGHTER. And those that fail of engagement——
THE PORTRESS. O, Lord have mercy! I pull the shawl over my head not to see them.
THE DAUGHTER. Poor human creatures!
THE PORTRESS. Look, here comes one—She's not one of the chosen. See, how she cries.
THE SINGER enters from the right; rushes through the gate with her handkerchief to her eyes; stops for a moment in the passageway beyond the gate and leans her head against the wall; then out quickly.
THE DAUGHTER. Men are to be pitied!
THE PORTRESS. But look at this one. That's the way a happy person looks.
THE OFFICER enters through the passageway; dressed in Prince Albert coat and high hat, and carrying a bunch of roses in one hand; he is radiantly happy.
THE PORTRESS. He's going to marry Miss Victoria.
THE OFFICER. [Far down on the stage, looks up and sings] Victoria!