Paolo. At seven-thirty.
Mario. Tell him to be here at six. I would send Battista to order it, but the engineer has taken him with him. On the other hand, it is better that you see the carriage, they have some antediluvian arks!
Paolo. And why don't you go? He knows you and you know his arsenal—you could choose better.
Mario. You are right. Anna, I will send Maddalena to help you with your luggage?
Anna. Yes, thank you, Mario. Send Maddalena to help me.
Mario [going off]. And dinner is at five.
Paolo. Yes.
[Mario exits. Silence. Anna takes a few steps toward the desk. Paolo goes impetuously to Anna and takes her in his arms and kisses her. She breaks away violently.]
Anna. Oh—horrors! [The words escape from her lips involuntarily.]
Paolo [drawing back]. Anna!