Bailiff. It is no wonder, madam. It was the Gander did it. [Showing tear on coat.] I have been attacked by that vicious bird——
Countess. And wounded in the coat tails!
[Countess and Melissa laugh.
Bailiff. It does not seem a laughing matter to me, your ladyship. Something must be done.
Countess. With a needle and thread. There, I quite agree with you.
Bailiff. No, madam—with a big stick. Something must be done to make the Gander behave better.
Countess. I am sorry you don't like the Gander, Bailiff. I always find him very pleasant.
Bailiff. I regret that your ladyship is inclined to make such a companion of him. He really seems to consider he is on an equality with your ladyship.
Countess. On an equality with me! You are impertinent, sir. No one is on an equality with me in this castle. But I have a warm regard for the Gander, and I consider that you have insulted us both by your complaints. [A noise at the door.] Melissa!
[Melissa hastens to open the door. The Gander and Drake are seen in the doorway. They both bow.