Miss Coeurne. Gerardo
Miss Coeurne (sixteen years old, short skirts, loose-hanging light hair. Has a bouquet of red roses in her hand, speaks with an English accent, looks at Gerardo with a full and frank expression). Please, do not send me away.
Gerardo. What else am I to do with you? Heaven knows I did not ask you to come here. It would be wrong of you to take it amiss but, you see, I have to sing tomorrow night. I must tell you frankly. I thought I should have this half hour to myself. Only just now I've given special and strictest orders not to admit anybody, no matter who it might be.
Miss Coeurne (stepping forward). Do not send me away. I heard you as Tannhäuser last night and came here merely to offer you these roses.
Gerardo. Yes?—Well?—And—?
Miss Coeurne. And myself!—I hope I am saying it right.
Gerardo (grasps the back of a chair; after a short struggle with himself he shakes his head). Who are you?
Miss Coeurne. Miss Coeurne.
Gerardo. I see.
Miss Coeurne. I am still quite a simple girl.