THE GYPSY. I had almost rather be put in prison than lectured at. Well,
I must invent something to explain my presence. (There is a knock.)
Who is that?
THE MAID. Hide yourself. I will see.
THE GYSPY. (from behind the curtains of the window) I am hidden.
The maid goes to the door, and comes back with a paper in her hand.
THE GYPSY. Well?
THE MAID. (looking at the paper) The Gazetteer is ill, and cannot come.
THE GYPSY. (emerging from the curtains) The Gazetteer is ill….
THE MAID. The King will be annoyed.
THE GYPSY. We will spare his majesty that annoyance. I shall be the
King's Gazetteer this morning!
THE MAID. But how can you?