MADAM POTIPHAR. Well, what in the name of all the gods is it that you care about?

JOSEPH. (vehemently) In the name of all the gods, madam, I care about time.

MADAM POTIPHAR. Time! But what can you do with time?

JOSEPH. What can I do without it?

MADAM POTIPHAR. But I do not understand!

JOSEPH. (in a cold rage) Of course you do not understand. You are a great lady—and a fool. I am a wise man—and but an hour ago a slave. I have more intellect than all the population of Egypt put together. Do you expect me to be content to remain as I am? I want power and riches—and I intend to achieve them. And I cannot achieve them if I allow women to waste my time.

MADAM POTIPHAR. (deeply angered at last) Very well, I go—taking your secret with me! (She goes.)

JOSEPH. (furiously, to the empty room) Virtue! My God!

He sits down at his desk and writes vexedly.

* * * * *