Helena. The King is a lover of comfort. Have you noticed that he spends more time than he used to in the library?
Tsumu. He is busy with questions of State.
Helena. You know perfectly well that when anything's the matter with the Government it's always straightened out at the other end of the palace. Finish my shoulder. [She examines her arm.] I doubt if there is a finer skin than this in Sparta.
[Tsumu begins to massage the Queen's shoulder.]
Helena [taking up a mirror]. That touch of deep carmine right here in the center of my lips was quite an idea.
Tsumu [busily pounding the Queen]. An inspiration of the Gods!
Helena. The Gods have nothing to do with it. I copied it from a low woman I saw at the circus. I can't understand how these bad women have such good ideas.
[Helen twists about.]
Tsumu. If your majesty doesn't sit still, I may pinch you.
Helena [boxing her ears]. None of your tricks, you ebony fiend!