COLONEL. A splendid young chap—very musical—sings, and writes poetry.... If he were only a nobleman—if he belonged to our class, I don't think I should object....
HUMMEL. To what?
COLONEL. Oh, my daughter....
HUMMEL. Your daughter, you say?—But apropos of that, why is she always sitting in that room?
COLONEL. She has to spend all her time in the Hyacinth Room when she is not out. That is a peculiarity of hers.... Here comes Miss Betty von Holstein-Kron—a charming woman—a Secular Canoness, with just enough money of her own to suit her birth and position....
Hummel. [Tohimself] My fiancée!
The FIANCÉE enters. She is white-haired, and her looks indicate a slightly unbalanced mind.
COLONEL. Miss von Holstein-Kron—Mr. Hummel.
The FIANCÉE curtseys in old-fashioned manner and takes a seat. The DANDY enters and seats himself; he is in mourning and has a very mysterious look.
COLONEL. Baron Skansenkorge....