Wife. Henry! Henry! Henry!
She falls to the floor in a fainting fit, with the child in her arms; loud and repeated claps of thunder are again heard.
The baptism. Guests. Father Benjamin. The Godfather and Godmother. The nurse with the child in her arms; the Wife seated upon the sofa. Retainers and servants in the background.
First Guest. I wonder where the count is hiding.
Second Guest. Perhaps he has been accidentally detained, or he may be writing verses.
First Guest. How pale and tired the countess looks, and as yet she has spoken to no one.
Third Guest. This christening reminds me of a ball which I once attended; the host had just lost his whole estate at cards, and was a complete bankrupt, while he continued to receive his many guests with the courtesy of despair.
Fourth Guest. I left my lovely princess, and came here, because I thought to play my part at a gay breakfast; but I am disappointed, for it seems to me that I am, as the Scripture hath it, in the midst of 'wailing and gnashing of teeth.'
Father Benjamin. George Stanislaus, wilt thou receive holy unction?