Madame de Sade [antikvár]

ACT ONE Scene: The salon in Madame de Montreuil's house. Time: Autumn, 1772. SAINT-FOND {she wears a riding habit. She paces hack and forth irritably, whip in hand) : What an extraordinary way to treat one's guests! She sent word asking me to stop by for a moment on my way back from riding practice. I came by special invitation, the first time I've ever set foot in this house. And now she keeps me waiting, just as long as it suits her pleasure ! SIMIANE: You mustn't be too harsh with Madame de Montreuil. I'm sure she's at her wits' end, worrying about her son-in-law. SAINT-FOND: You mean, she's still upset over the events of three months ago ? SIMIANE: I can't imagine that time has made her suffering the least bit easier to bear. Do you realize we haven't seen Madame de Montreuil once since what happened? SAINT-FOND: "What happened"! "What happened"! Whenever and wherever it comes up in conversation, we dispose of the matter by saying "what happened" with a wink and a knowing smile. Why not speak out plainly for a change? {Cracks her whip.) 1