SERGIUS.
(coming clear of the table and drawing her with him). I am surprised at myself, Louka. What would Sergius, the hero of Slivnitza, say if he saw me now? What would Sergius, the apostle of the higher love, say if he saw me now? What would the half dozen Sergiuses who keep popping in and out of this handsome figure of mine say if they caught us here? (Letting go her hand and slipping his arm dexterously round her waist.) Do you consider my figure handsome, Louka?
LOUKA.
Let me go, sir. I shall be disgraced. (She struggles: he holds her inexorably.) Oh, will you let go?
SERGIUS.
(looking straight into her eyes). No.
LOUKA.
Then stand back where we can’t be seen. Have you no common sense?
SERGIUS.
Ah, that’s reasonable. (He takes her into the stableyard gateway, where they are hidden from the house.)
LOUKA.
(complaining). I may have been seen from the windows: Miss Raina is sure to be spying about after you.
SERGIUS.
(stung—letting her go). Take care, Louka. I may be worthless enough to betray the higher love; but do not you insult it.
LOUKA.
(demurely). Not for the world, sir, I’m sure. May I go on with my work please, now?
SERGIUS.
(again putting his arm round her). You are a provoking little witch, Louka. If you were in love with me, would you spy out of windows on me?
LOUKA.
Well, you see, sir, since you say you are half a dozen different gentlemen all at once, I should have a great deal to look after.