HELIOGABALUS
[Now completely out of bed, and standing in the narrow space between the beds] Well, here goes etiquette! Strictly speaking, my gumdrop, you should come to me. Remember, I am Emperor, not to say Pontifex Maximus. But let it go. Do I get the kiss?
LUCIA
[With a stiff coquetry] A kiss—perhaps.
HELIOGABALUS
Only perhaps. And only a kiss?
LUCIA
[Slightly unbending] Well, then, maybe—
HELIOGABALUS
Well, then maybe what?