Yet you would like to make his acquaintance?

The Painter.

That I don't know.

The Marquis in Pink.

(Softly to The Marquis in Pale Blue.) How the coward betrays himself!

The Painter.

Too often I have heard his name spoken in wonder, here with disfavour, there with enthusiasm, yet always as if a miracle was happening to me, too often for me not to view with apprehension the nearness of this powerful man.

The Marquis in Pink.

What did I say? He is afraid.

The Marquis in Pale Blue.