[As Life saunters into view at the farthest bend of the path. He walks like a conqueror. But there is something ugly in his appearance. Life sees the girls just as a sudden sun-ray catches the jewels of their crowns. He cringes and walks like a hunchback slave. He is beautiful now.]

First Girl. He has seen our crowns!

Second Girl. Ah!

First Girl. Remember! You are only safe—as long as you remain his master. Never forget that he is a slave, and that you are a queen.

Second Girl [to herself]. I must never let him see me without my crown.

First Girl. Hush! He is coming!

Second Girl. He is very beautiful—

First Girl. While he is a slave.

Second Girl [not hearing]. He is—very beautiful—

First Girl. Life!