Читать книгу Plays: Lady Frederick, The Explorer, A Man of Honour - Maugham William Somerset - Страница 4

Scene: Lady Frederick's dressing-room. At the back is a large opening, curtained, which leads to the bedroom; on the right a door leading to the passage; on the left a window. In front of the window, of which the blind is drawn, is a dressing-table. Lady Frederick's maid is in the room, a very neat pretty Frenchwoman. She speaks with a slight accent. She rings the bell, and the Footman enters.

Maid

As soon as Lord Mereston arrives he is to be shown in.

Footman

[Surprised.] Here?

Maid

Where else?

[The Footman winks significantly. The Maid draws herself up with dignity, and with a dramatic gesture points to the door.

Maid

Depart.

[The Footman goes out.

Lady Frederick

[From the bedroom.] Have you drawn the blind, Angélique?

Maid

I will do so, miladi. [She draws the blind, and the light falls brightly on the dressing-table.] But miladi will never be able to stand it. [She looks at herself in the glass.] Oh, the light of the sun in the morning! I cannot look at myself.

Lady Frederick

[As before.] There's no reason that you should – especially in my glass.

Maid

But if 'is lordship is coming, miladi must let me draw the blind. Oh, it is impossible.

Lady Frederick

Do as you're told and don't interfere.

[The Footman enters to announce Mereston. The Maid goes out.

Footman

Lord Mereston.

Lady Frederick

[As before.] Is that you, Charlie? You're very punctual.

Mereston

I've been walking about outside till the clock struck.

Lady Frederick

I'm not nearly dressed, you know. I've only just had my bath.

Mereston

Must I go?

Lady Frederick

No, of course not. You can talk to me while I'm finishing.

Mereston

All right. How are you this morning?

Lady Frederick

I don't know. I haven't looked at myself in the glass yet. How are you?

Mereston

A 1, thanks.

Lady Frederick

Are you looking nice?

Mereston

[Going to the glass.] I hope so. By Jove, what a strong light. You must be pretty sure of your complexion to be able to stand that.

Lady Frederick

[Appearing.] I am.

Mereston

[Going forward eagerly.] Ah.

[She comes through the curtains. She wears a kimono, her hair is all dishevelled, hanging about her head in a tangled mop. She is not made up and looks haggard and yellow and lined. When Mereston sees her he gives a slight start of surprise. She plays the scene throughout with her broadest brogue.

Lady Frederick

Good-morning.

Mereston

[Staring at her in dismay.] Good-morning.