Yes, but I've been gone two hours.

DEVIL, steps to the front L. C. very politely

It was all my fault. We have been chatting. We've had a very interesting discussion. And Madame was kind enough to invite me for this evening.

HERMAN

Oh! I'm very pleased.

DEVIL, crosses to couch L. and sits

Thank you. I have just come from Odessa. I had a talk with the Russian Wheat King. He tells me—

HERMAN

Yes, I've heard; wheat's going up.

OLGA, frightened