POMPDEBILE. We know him not. Begin at once; the people are clamoring at the gates. Bring the ingredients.
(The PASTRY COOKS open the door, and, single file, six little boys march in, bearing large jars labeled butter, salt, flour, pepper, cinnamon, and milk. The COOKS place a table and a large bowl and a pan in front of the LADY VIOLETTA and give her a spoon. The six little boys stand three on each side.)
VIOLETTA. Oh, what darling little ingredients. May I have an apron, please?
(URSULA puts a silk apron, embroidered with red hearts, on the
LADY VIOLETTA.)
BLUE HOSE. We were unable to find a little boy to carry the pepper, My Lady. They all would sneeze in such a disturbing way.
VIOLETTA. This is a perfectly controlled little boy. He hasn't sneezed once.
YELLOW HOSE. That, if it please Your Ladyship, is not a little boy.
VIOLETTA. Oh! How nice! Perhaps she will help me.
CHANCELLOR (severely). You are allowed no help, Lady Violetta.
VIOLETTA. Oh, Chancellor, how cruel of you. (She takes up the spoon, bowing.) Your Majesty, Lords and Ladies of the court, I propose to make (impressively) raspberry tarts.