PIERROT
Madame is merciless!

THE LADY
Is that the tone?

PIERROT
The very tone: I swear thou lackest naught.
Madame was evidently bred at Court.

THE LADY
Thou speakest glibly: 'tis not of thine age.

PIERROT
I listened much, as best becomes a page.

THE LADY
I like thy Court but little—

PIERROT
Hush! the Queen!
Bow, but not low—thou knowest what I mean.

THE LADY
Nay, that I know not!

PIERROT
Though she wear a crown,
'Tis from La Pompadour one fears a frown.

THE LADY
Thou art a child: thy malice is a game.