Tsumu [speaking very dramatically and watching the effect of her words]. The Queen has deserted Menelaus.

Analytikos [receiving the shock philosophically]. Swift are the ways of Nature. The Gods have smiled upon him.

Tsumu. The Gods have forsaken the King to smile upon a prince.

Analytikos. What?

Tsumu. He was a prince.

Analytikos [apprehensively]. Why do you say that?

Tsumu [clutching her bosom]. I have a good reason to know. [There is a sound of voices below in the courtyard. Menelaus rushes in expectantly. Tsumu falls prostrate before him.] Oh, King, in thy bottomless agony blame not a blameless negress. The Queen has fled!

Menelaus [in his delight forgetting himself and flinging her a purse]. Is it true?

Tsumu. Woe! Woe is me!

Menelaus [storming]. Out of my sight, you eyeless Argus!