THE PRINCE. He says, if I believed—
NATALIE (interrupting). Why, yes, of course!
Quick now! Sit down. I'll tell you what to say.
[She sets a chair in place for him.]
THE PRINCE. I wish to read the letter once again.
NATALIE (tearing the letter from his hand).
Why so? Did you not see the pit already
Yawning beneath you in the graveyard yonder?
The time is urgent. Come, sit down and write.
THE PRINCE (smiling).
Truly, you act as though it had the power
To plump down, panther-fashion, on my back.
[He sits down and seizes a pen.]
NATALIE (turning away with a sob).
Write, if you do not want to make me cross.
[The PRINCE rings for a lackey, who enters.]
THE PRINCE. Bring pen and paper, seal and sealing-wax.