(Pauline's chamber.)
Gertrude and Pauline (the latter sleeping on a large armchair on the left).
Gertrude (cautiously entering) She is sleeping, and the doctor said that she would wake up at once. Her slumber alarms me. This then is the girl that he is in love with. I do not find her pretty at all. Oh, yes, after all, she is beautiful! But how is it that men do not see that beauty is nothing but a promise, and that love is the—(someone knocks). How is this; there are people coming.
Vernon (outside)
May I come in, Pauline?
Gertrude
It is the doctor.
SCENE SECOND
The same persons and Vernon.
Gertrude
You told me that she would soon awake.
Vernon
Don't be alarmed. (Calling aloud) Pauline! Pauline!
Pauline (awakening)
O M. Vernon! Where am I? Ah! In my own room. What has happened to me?