BLUNTSCHLI.
(much startled protesting vehemently). I’m not married.
RAINA.
(with deep reproach). You said you were.
BLUNTSCHLI.
I did not. I positively did not. I never was married in my life.
PETKOFF.
(exasperated). Raina: will you kindly inform me, if I am not asking too much, which gentleman you are engaged to?
RAINA.
To neither of them. This young lady (introducing Louka, who faces them all proudly) is the object of Major Saranoff’s affections at present.
PETKOFF.
Louka! Are you mad, Sergius? Why, this girl’s engaged to Nicola.
NICOLA.
(coming forward ). I beg your pardon, sir. There is a mistake. Louka is not engaged to me.
PETKOFF.
Not engaged to you, you scoundrel! Why, you had twenty-five levas from me on the day of your betrothal; and she had that gilt bracelet from Miss Raina.
NICOLA.
(with cool unction). We gave it out so, sir. But it was only to give Louka protection. She had a soul above her station; and I have been no more than her confidential servant. I intend, as you know, sir, to set up a shop later on in Sofia; and I look forward to her custom and recommendation should she marry into the nobility. (He goes out with impressive discretion, leaving them all staring after him.)
PETKOFF.
(breaking the silence). Well, I am—-hm!