3.
Characters:
Mathilda Roquefort, the daughter of Baron and Baroness Roquefort
Marie, her maid
Meanwhile, in Mathilda’s room, another conversation took place.
Mathilda: What time is it, Marie?
Marie: Ten o’clock, Mademoiselle.
Mathilda: Ten o’clock… Another eight hours (15), and I shall become Madame Camembert. Don’t I hate this name! (16) Along with the marquis with his well-groomed whiskers and the terrible smell of cheap cologne! (17) I cannot bear to think of him without disgust. (18) But such was the will of His Majesty, and such is the will of my parents. Oh, Marie, I’m so unhappy! I wish I were dead! (19)
Marie: Please, don’t say that, Mademoiselle. Someone would be even more unhappy if you were dead. Look what I have brought you! Your favourite strawberry pie. Why don’t you try some?
Mathilda: Thank you, Marie, but I really don’t feel like I could eat anything. (20)
Marie: Still, I think that you should try this cake. I’m sure that you will like it.
Mathilda: I will?
Marie: Definitely. It has your favourite filling.
Mathilda: It does?
Marie: Uh-huh.
Mathilda: All right. If you insist, I will have a slice.
Marie: I will go now. But I will be around in case you should need me. (21) I will see to it that no one disturbs you. (22)
Mathilda broke the cake, fished out a slip of paper and started reading:
Mathilda (having finished reading): Marie!
Marie: I’m here, Mademoiselle.
Mathilda: I will step out for a few minutes. (23)
Marie: Of course, Mademoiselle. Take your time. (24) I will cover for you. (25)
Mathilda: Cover for me?
Marie: I mean, if someone comes looking for you, I will say that you are in the garden walking off your headache. (26)
Mathilda: How do I look?
Marie: You look beautiful, Mademoiselle, if only a bit pale. But it suits you.
Mathilda: Thank you, Marie. Thank you for everything.
Marie: Ah, Mademoiselle, it is so romantic! Secret rendezvous in the garden, love notes! Such a pity you can’t marry your captain!
