Severo. Good. Then to work. [Aside, rubbing his hands, and looking back at Ernest and Teodora. Aloud.] Goodbye.

Teodora. Goodbye.

Severo. [Rancorously, from the door.] My faith!

SCENE V

Teodora, Doña Mercedes, and Ernest. The ladies occupy the sofa, and Ernest stands near them.

Mercedes. [To Ernest.] We did not see you to-day.

Ernest. No, madam.

Mercedes. Nor Pepito?

Ernest. No.

Mercedes. He is upstairs alone.