Jarvis. Hardly ridiculous—I am arguing for my life.
Princess. Can any decision be more unjust than mine must be at the point of a pistol?
Jarvis. (Lays pistol on dressing table l. and crosses to r. of Princess.) There is nothing to prevent your calling for help now—after all, it doesn't matter much whether the end comes today or the day after.
Princess. The end? Then why don't you give yourself up?
Jarvis. That would not have been the end. You don't understand, I know, but I'm not flying from Justice. There was in this a case of shoot or be shot. (Sound of running toward door 6.) Listen—they're here now. (Jarvis crosses door 8.)
House Detective. (Knock outside door) Anybody in here? (Knock.) Open the door.
Jarvis. It's up to you to do with me as you like. (Princess points to door l. Jarvis exits.)
Nita. (Off stage door 5) Madame—Madame—(Enters.) What is it? (Running to mistress for protection.) Something dreadful must have happened. (Knock on door repeated.) What shall I do?
Princess. Open it, Nita. (Nita opens door reluctantly.)
House Detective. (In doorway) Are you all right in here?