Clair de Lune

They do not sound original.

PHEDRO

And yet from the effect they stir there must be something. It appears the clown causes those who are incurably sad to faint with laughter.

QUEEN

It would be charming to laugh, to be unable to help laughing. Have them sent to my porter in the northern wing and I will interview them before the masque. Ah, here comes the Duchess leaning upon her Prince's arm. I must say she looks as if there might be something more amusing to lean upon.

[Enter JOSEPHINE and the PRINCE.]

QUEEN

Well, Josephine.

DUCHESS

Well, my sister.

[Sighs and stoops over a bed of heliotrope.]

QUEEN

Why are you so melancholy, Josephine? You are standing in the portals of joy--I confess they do not appear very much to intrigue you.

DUCHESS

Possibly I am melancholy because I am not curious.

QUEEN [sarcastically]

No, rocks could hardly be curious