Baron [aside].
Was ever man more oddly placed than I?
She'll recognize my voice if I reply.
Eloise.
Ah! treat me not with silent unconcern,
But grant, great Saint, the boon for which I yearn!
Gaspard [aside].
What is the boon that she has come to seek?
And why on earth does Santa Claus not speak?
Baron [aside].
I must respond; it is my only choice.
Yet can I properly disguise my voice?
Henri (from doorway at R.) [aside].
It's Eloise; some favor she would crave.
Upon my word, she's wonderfully brave.