Very well. Put down the pail; I don’t want it. Here, take this broom. Not like that! You’d better sit down again. (Saint Anthony obeys and sits on the two wreaths lying on the stool.) Hi, what are you doing? You’re sitting on the wreaths!
Saint Anthony
I beg your pardon. I’m a little short-sighted.
Virginie
Clumsy! They’re a pretty sight now! And what Monsieur Gustave will say when he sees those two wreaths!... Thank goodness, they’re not so bad after all! We can put them right. Sit down over there; take them on your knees; and keep quite quiet. (She goes down on her knees before the Saint.) I have a favour to ask you.
Saint Anthony
Speak, don’t be afraid.
Virginie
Give me your blessing, while we are by ourselves. When the company comes out, I shall be sent away; and I sha’n’t see you any more. Give me your blessing for myself alone. I am old and need it badly.