Baroness.—He has quite alarmed me—everything seems to come at the same time! She has had a suspicion that there was something amiss with her father; I have noticed that, but she hasn't wanted to speak about it. (CLARA comes in, dressed for the court.) Ah, there you are, my dear! Quite ready?
Clara. Quite.
Baroness (looking at her). Well, I daresay there have been royal brides more elaborately dressed, but I am sure there has never been one more charming. (Kisses her.)
Clara. I think I hear a carriage?
Baroness. I expect it is the King!
Clara. I am afraid it is too early yet—but all the same I hope it is he!
Baroness. Do you feel afraid?
Clara. No, no—it is not that at all; it is something—something that you don't—a kind of feeling as if—as if some one were haunting me; and I know who it is. I only feel secure when the King is with me. I hope it may be he coming. (Goes to the window.)
(The MAID comes in.)
Maid. A lady wishes to speak to you, Miss Ernst—