Violetta (looking at a paper which Louisa holds). I like it very much.
Lady P. What is it that you like very much, Violetta?
Violet. You are not to know yet, mamma; it is—I may tell her that—it is a little drawing that Louisa is doing for me. Louisa, I wish you would let me show it to mamma.
Louisa. And welcome, my dear; it is only a sketch of “The Little Merchants,” a story which Violetta was reading, and she asked me to try to draw the pictures of the little merchants for her. (Whilst Lady P. looks at the drawing, Violetta says to Louisa.)
But are you in earnest, Louisa, about what you were saying to me just now,—quite in earnest?
Louisa. Yes, in earnest,—quite in earnest, my dear.
Violet. And may I ask mamma, now?
Louisa. If you please, my dear.
Violet. (runs to her mother). Stoop down to me, mamma; I’ve something to whisper to you.
(Lady Piercefield stoops down; Violetta throws her arms round her mother’s neck.)