[The Manufacturer's kindly and impressive tone holds Pierrot as it had held Pierrette some moments before. Whilst the two are looking at each other, a little red cloak dances past the window, and Pierrette enters with her marketing.]
Pierrette. Oh, I'm so glad you're still here.
Manufacturer. But I must be going now. I am a great traveler.
Pierrette [standing against the door, so that he cannot pass]. Oh, you mustn't go yet.
Manufacturer. Don't make me fly out of the window. I only do that under very unpleasant circumstances.
Pierrot [gaily, with mock eloquence]. Pierrette, regard our visitor. You little knew whom you were entertaining. You see before you the maker of the dreams that slip about the world like little fish among the rushes of a stream. He has given me the bill of lading of his great masterpiece, and it only remains for me to find her. [Dropping to the commonplace.] I wish I knew where to look.
Manufacturer. Before I go, I will give you this little rhyme:
"Let every woman keep a school,
For every man is born a fool."
[He bows, and goes out quickly and silently.]
Pierrette [running to the door, and looking out]. Why, how quickly he has gone! He's out of sight.