LOUKA.
Swiss, madam, I think.
CATHERINE.
(with a bound that makes Louka jump back). Swiss! What is he like?
LOUKA.
(timidly). He has a big carpet bag, madam.
CATHERINE.
Oh, Heavens, he’s come to return the coat! Send him away—say we’re not at home—ask him to leave his address and I’ll write to him—Oh, stop: that will never do. Wait! (She throws herself into a chair to think it out. Louka waits.) The master and Major Saranoff are busy in the library, aren’t they?
LOUKA.
Yes, madam.
CATHERINE.
(decisively). Bring the gentleman out here at once. (Imperatively.) And be very polite to him. Don’t delay. Here (impatiently snatching the salver from her): leave that here; and go straight back to him.
LOUKA.
Yes, madam. (Going.)
CATHERINE.
Louka!
LOUKA.
(stopping). Yes, madam.
CATHERINE.
Is the library door shut?