Pierrette. Oh, they'd never do that. A fine lady would never marry a poor singer. If Pierrot were to get married, I think I should just ... fade away.... Oh, but I don't know why I talk to you like this. I feel as if I had known you for a long, long time. [The Manufacturer rises from the settle and moves across to Pierrette, who is now folding up the white table-cloth.]
Manufacturer [very slowly]. Perhaps you have known me for a long, long time. [His tone is so kindly and impressive that Pierrette forgets the table-cloth and looks up at him. For a moment or two he smiles back at her as she gazes, spellbound; then he turns away to the fire again, with the little chuckle that is never far from his lips.]
Pierrette [taking a small bow from his side-pocket]. Oh, look at this.
Manufacturer [in mock alarm]. Oh, oh, I didn't mean you to see that. I'd forgotten it was sticking out of my pocket. I used to do a lot of archery at one time. I don't get much chance now. [He takes it and puts it back in his pocket.]
Pierrot [singing in the distance].
"Baby, don't wait for the moon,
She is drawing the sea in her net;
And mellow and musical June
Is teaching the rose to forget."
Manufacturer [in a whisper as the voice draws nearer]. Who is that?
Pierrette. Pierrot. [Again the conical white hat flashes past the window and Pierrot enters.]
Pierrot. I can't find her anywhere. [Seeing The Manufacturer.] Hullo! Who are you?
Manufacturer. I am a stranger to you, but Pierrette knew me in a moment.