these doors
stand two large Louis XV. consoles. There is a large writing-table and
other furniture in the styles of Louis XIV. and Louis XV. In the
right-hand corner in front stands a large swinging mirror, with its back
to the audience._

_At the rise of the curtain_ SEDLINZKY (_the Prefect of the Police_),
_the_ USHER, _and a number of_ LACKEYS _are discovered._

SEDLINZKY.

That's all?

FIRST LACKEY.

That's all.

SEDLINZKY.

Nothing abnormal?

SECOND LACKEY.

Nothing.

THIRD LACKEY.

Eats little.

FOURTH LACKEY.

Reads a lot.

FIFTH LACKEY.

Sleeps very badly.

SEDLINZKY.

[_To the_ USHER.]

And can you trust his personal attendants?

THE USHER.

Why, they are all professional policemen,
As you, the Prefect of Police, must know.

SEDLINZKY.

Thank you. I fear the Duke may find me here.

FIRST LACKEY.

No, sir; he's out.

SECOND LACKEY.

As usual at this hour.

THIRD LACKEY.

In uniform.

FOURTH LACKEY.

And with his Aides-de-Camp.

THE USHER.

There are manoeuvres.

SEDLINZKY.

Well, be keen and tactful.
Let him not know he's watched.

THE USHER.

I'm very cunning.

SEDLINZKY.

Not too much zeal! I dread a zealous man.
Don't listen at his keyhole in a crowd.

THE USHER.

I've given that duty to a special man.

SEDLINZKY.

To whom?

THE USHER.

The Piedmontese.

SEDLINZKY.

Ah yes; he's clever.

THE USHER.

I place him every evening in this chamber
Immediately his Highness seeks his room

SEDLINZKY.

Is he here now?

THE USHER.

No. As he wakes all night
He sleeps by daytime, while the Duke is out.
He'll be here when the Duke is.

SEDLINZKY.

Let him watch.

THE USHER.

Trust me.

SEDLINZKY.

[_Glancing at the table._]

The papers--?

THE USHER.

[_With a smile._]

Searched.

SEDLINZKY.

[_Stooping under the table._]

The basket, too?

[_Seeing scraps of paper under the table, he hastily
kneels to examine them._]

These scraps?

[_He tries to read._]

Perhaps a letter?

[_Urged by professional curiosity he cre