Marie Antoinette. Oh! then the necklace has come again! It was really beautiful, M. Boehmer.
M. B. So beautiful that your Majesty alone was worthy to wear it.
M. A. My consolation is that it cost a million and a half francs, and in these times there is no sovereign that can give such a sum for a necklace; so that although I cannot wear it, no one else can.
M. B. That is an error of your Majesty’s. The necklace is sold.
M. A. Sold! To whom?
M. B. Ah, Madame, that is a state secret.
M. A. Oh, I think I am safe. A state secret means that there is nothing to tell.
M. B. With your Majesty we do not act as with others. The necklace is sold, but in the most secret manner, and an embassador—
M. A. I really think you believe it yourself! Come, M. Boehmer, tell me at least the country he comes from, or, at all events, the first letter of his name.