Nay, your Grace, he gave it at once to the clown, for I know it was the clown standing with him by the spidery confusion of his limbs. Messire Phedro said I was to tell your Grace that you were understood and would be obeyed.
Duchess [half to herself]
Well, maybe there is some reason. [she turns to the equerry] Go about your business. Don't stand around as if you were expecting the lash or you will feel it.
[The equerry rapidly retires. The Duchess turns to her maid.]
Duchess
Ugh! Rid me of all this glittering discomfort.
[The maid helps her out of the stiff wonderful dress and into a lovely azure garment sprayed with silver flowers.]
Duchess
[Fixing the maid with a peremptory eye.]