The scene represents a state apartment in a royal castle. On the left, a throne in baroque style. On the right, in the background a screen with a table and chairs beside it. In the centre, an easel.
FIRST SCENE.
THE QUEEN in a plaited coronation robe, on the throne. THE PAINTER with palette in hand, painting. A CHILD as CUPID, suspended by the waist, swings on THE QUEEN'S left, holding a crown over her head. The background and the right of the stage are occupied by ladies and gentlemen of the court, among them THE DEAF MAID OF HONOUR, THE SLEEPY MAID OF HONOUR, THE MARQUIS IN PINK, and MARQUIS IN PALE BLUE.
SONG OF THE MAIDS OF HONOUR.
(Led by The Marquis in Pale Blue.)
Zephyr rises at the dawn
From the budding pillows of the roses.
Lo, he will cool his hot desire
In the silvery dew,
Since he must console himself
That his dream still fans the flame,
And that Luna's icy kiss
Does but touch his parched mouth.
And Aurora's violet passion
Looks on him with floods of tears.
Ah! What matters Luna's favour?--
She knows not how to kiss.
The Queen (yawning).
The pretty verses which you have just sung to sweeten this long posing for me, grieve me slightly. Yet--aside from that--accept my thanks.
The Marquis in Pale Blue.