Valsin [with solemnity]. Do you give it as an order, Citizeness?
Eloise. I do. You will receive suitable political advancement.
Valsin [in a choked voice]. You mean as a—a reward?
Eloise [haughtily]. I guarantee that you shall receive it! [He looks at her strangely; then, with a low moan, presses his hand to his side, seeming upon the point of a dangerous seizure.]
Valsin [managing to speak]. I can only beg you to spare me. You have me at your mercy.
Eloise [swelling]. It is well for you that you understand that!
Valsin [shaking his hand ruefully]. Yes; you see I have a bad liver: it may become permanently enlarged. Laughter is my great danger.
Eloise [crying out with rage]. Oh!
Valsin [dolorously]. I have continually to remind myself that I am no longer in the first flush of youth.
Eloise. Idiot! Do you not know who I am!