Gerardo (alone, comes forward, sinks into an armchair, with basket of champagne in front of him, looks at the bottles). For whom am I raking together so much money?—For my children I Yes, if I had any children!—For my old age?—Two more years will make a wreck of me!—Then it will be:
"Alas, alas,
The hobby is forgotten!"
SCENE IX
Gerardo, Helen Marowa, later the valet.
Helen (of striking beauty, twenty-seven years, street dress, muff; greatly excited). I am just likely, am I not, to let that creature block my way! I suppose you placed him down there to prevent me from reaching you!
Gerardo (has started from his chair). Helen!
Helen. Why, you knew that I was coming, didn't you?
Valet (in the open door which has been left so by Helen; holds hand to his cheek). I did my very best, Sir, but the lady ... she ... she ...
Helen. Boxed your ears!
Gerardo. Helen!