DARLING BOY

from Chéri by Colette

an adaptation by Pam Gems

Copyright © Pam Gems
Pam Gems is hereby identified as author of this work in accordance with section 77 of the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988. The author has asserted her moral rights. 

All rights whatsoever in this play are strictly reserved and application for performance etc. should be made before rehearsal to Rose Cobbe, United Agents, 12-26 Lexington Street, London W1F 0LE, UK. Tel: +44 (0) 20 3214 0800.
http://unitedagents.co.uk/agents/rose-cobbe/. Assistant: Dan Usztan. Email: dusztan@unitedagents.co.uk Tel: +44 (0) 20 3214 0873. No performance may be given unless a licence has been obtained.

DARLING BOY

The play takes place in Paris in the private apartments of the hotel belonging to Cléa de Lonval, and in the grounds and conservatory of L'Hotel Peloux, owned by Cléa's contemporary, Charlotte Peloux.  The time, the Twenties.

CAST

Cléa de Lonval - a stylish woman, 49 years of age.

Chéri - Frédéric Peloux - her godson and lover, 23.

Rose - Cléa's maid.

Masseau - Cléa's friend and ex-lover, 57.

Charlotte Peloux - Chéri's mother, a contemporary of Cléa's.

Edmée - young and comely, 18.

DARLING BOY

ACT ONE

A salon on the private floor of CLÉA DE LONVAL'S hotel in Paris.  The furnishing, in the Art Deco style, is pale, simple and elegant.  Time, the Twenties, late spring.

SCENE ONE

CHÉRI, a good-looking young man, is stretched out on a chaise-longue, hidden behind a newspaper.  He is in pyjamas bottoms, bare chested, his breakfast tray at his side.  He wears a string of very large pearls.  CLÉA, at a desk, head down with her back to him, is doing the accounts.

			CLÉA
		(Calls)  Anything in the papers?

			CHÉRI
		Armandine is fancied for Longchamps.  (He turns a page)  The Aga Khan has a new little friend.

A pause.  CLÉA turns, waving a bill at CHÉRI.  He looks at her in enquiry.

			CLÉA
		Twenty-four francs for an owl feather duster?

			CHÉRI
		Hector says feathers are easier on the paintings.  He's worried about the impasto.

CLÉA bends over the bills.  CHÉRI turns a page, reads, then sits up.

			CLÉA
		(Without turning)  What?

			CHÉRI
		Venezuelan Silver - up 30 points!  (CLÉA looks at him unbelievingly, crosses, and leans over his shoulder.)

			CHÉRI
		(Pointing)  There!  (They pore over the paper.)

		We'll sell, now!  No?

			CLÉA
		If they've struck a mother lode -

			CHÉRI
		The shares will go up and up!

			CLÉA
		It could be just a rumour - 

			CHÉRI
		Worth a punt though.  Half?

			CLÉA
		A quarter.  Give this to Chef (hands him an ornate menu)  tell him no creme surprise, anyway eggs give you spots, they can have sorbets, and take off my pearls.

He takes off the pearls, holds them in his hand.

			CHÉRI
		May I have them?

			CLÉA
		Why...what for?

			CHÉRI
		Oh, no reason.

He throws the pearls down, leaves with the menu.  She looks after him alertly then crosses to the telephone.

			CLÉA
		Haussmann 425.  M'sieu Perrault?  It's Cléa.  The Venezuelas - sell a quarter - oui, bien sur.  A bientôt.  Merci.

CHÉRI returns.

			CHÉRI
		How much?

			CLÉA
		A quarter.

			CHÉRI
		Good, we'll make -

			CLÉA
		Two hundred and fifty thousand francs.

			CHÉRI
		(Throws himself on the chaise-longue)  I'll buy the Bugatti.

			CLÉA
		No you won't.

			CHÉRI
		Why not?

			CLÉA
		You'll kill yourself.

			CHÉRI
		A Suiza then, and Chanel for you.

			CLÉA
		Chanel?  I'll look like a tennis player.

			CHÉRI
		Good!

			CLÉA
		(Head down at the accounts)  I must ring Nizza.

			CHÉRI
		That old bag?

			CLÉA
		Nizza's not old!  She was on every poster in Paris at one time!  You should have seen her in the saddle - (sighs, reminiscent) - Nizza, Queen of the Mustangs, and Blanche with her parakeets.

			CHÉRI
		(Laughs)  What happened to her?

			CLÉA
		Blanche?  Ask your mother.  She and Blanche were charioteers together.

			CHÉRI
		You never told me that.

			CLÉA
		They drove four horses apiece!  Well, till the collision.  She took to snake-charming after that.

CLÉA works.  CHÉRI jumps up abruptly, crosses, looks out of the window.  She turns and observes him.  He looks beautiful in the sunlight.

			CLÉA
		What's wrong?

			CHÉRI
		Nothing.

			CLÉA
		Good.  I was right.  The boxing's doing the trick.

He turns, and looks at her without smiling, biting his nails.

			CLÉA
		Stop biting your nails.  When did you start that again?

He crosses, stands over her, extending his hand.

			CHÉRI
		Do them for me?

She looks at him drily but fetches a little case.  He sits on the chaise-longue, makes room for her at his side and she does his nails.  He watches her bent head.
			CLÉA
		How are things at Peloux's?

			CHÉRI
		Fine.

			CLÉA
		How's your mother?

			CHÉRI
		Fine.  She asked me to say she misses you.  She says the poker sessions aren't the same.

			CLÉA
		She shouldn't be so quick with the accusations.

			CHÉRI
		What do you expect, you keep taking her money.

			CLÉA
		And why would that be?

			CHÉRI
		You're the better player.

			CLÉA
		Tell her to stick to bridge.

			CHÉRI
		You'll be back.  Miss all the charms of the banlieue?...the mayor, the undertaker, old Masseau poncing round with the coffee cups...

			CLÉA
		Leave Masseau alone, he's a dear friend.  Divinely good-looking once.  (He glares at her.)  Not as beautiful as you, of course.

			CHÉRI
		He's a shit.  Last week Marie-Louise was his partner -

			CLÉA
		Marie-Louise?  At your mother's?  What was she doing there, you didn't tell me.

			CHÉRI
		Forgot.

			CLÉA
		How is she, Madame Cobra?  Still trying to pass for 30?  Another one ashamed of her own child - she's got a daughter, you know!

			CHÉRI
		I had heard.

He turns away, goes back to the window.  He seems tense.
			CLÉA
		Why are you lunching with your mother?  It can't be for the food.

			CHÉRI
		That's my business.  I don't ask about your private life.

			CLÉA
		Only because you're not interested.

			CHÉRI
		I happen to have some discretion -

			CLÉA
		Rubbish, your only interest is yourself.

			CHÉRI
		Like everyone else!

			CLÉA
		There's no need to shout.

			CHÉRI
		I'm sorry.

He comes and sits next to her, head down.

			CLÉA
		Chéri?  (He does not reply.)  What is it?

ROSE enters.

			ROSE
		Madame...

			CLÉA
		Thank you, Rose.  (To CHÉRI)  He's here.

			CHÉRI
		Who?

			CLÉA
		Monsieur Front.  You haven't forgotten?

			CHÉRI
		(To ROSE)  Tell him to come back tomorrow.

			CLÉA
		No.  Certainly not, that man has just crossed Paris for you.  Show him in, Rose.  (ROSE goes.)  What on earth is the matter with you, you adore boxing.

			CHÉRI
		Not today.

			CLÉA
		Why not?
			CHÉRI
		I'm in a bad mood.

			CLÉA
		Good.  You can take it out on Monsieur Front.

			CHÉRI
		(Gloomy)  Try hitting a brick wall, you mean?

He goes.  CLÉA laughs, crosses to her desk, is about to sit when MASSEAU enters, looms up behind her.

			CLÉA
		Masseau!  I wish you wouldn't creep in like that.

She lifts her arms, allows him to kiss her briefly, touch her face.

			MASSEAU
		I hope the time will never come when I have to knock, Cléa.

			CLÉA
		Sit down, you look dreadful.  (Crossing to the breakfast tray.)

			MASSEAU
		That's because I haven't been to bed.

			CLÉA
		Well, don't boast about it.

			MASSEAU
		We went to the Turkish baths, to recover.

			CLÉA
		(Pouring him a large bowl of coffee.)  You look like a consignment of wet blotting paper.

			MASSEAU
		Now, now - too early for flattery.  Thank you.

			CLÉA
		I remember when you'd drag a girl out of the Folies Bergere, grab a horse and cart and frighten the life out of half Paris.

			MASSEAU
		I was always a simple soul.

He blows on his coffee.

			CLÉA
		What do you want?

			MASSEAU
		It's about Friday.  I've hired a barouche for drag night, are you coming, you missed the last one.

			CLÉA
		I had nothing to wear.  (He looks at her disbelievingly.)  Chéri fell asleep.

MASSEAU shrugs.

			CLÉA
		Was it fun?

			MASSEAU
		Outrageous.  Old Lil danced on the table showing her privates, and I won a hat.

			CLÉA
		Any good?

			MASSEAU
		No - I looked like an Englishman.  They were all asking for you.

Laughter off.

			CHÉRI
		(Offstage)  Got you!

More laughter.

			MASSEAU
		What's going on?

			CLÉA
		It's Chéri's sparring lesson.

			MASSEAU
		Lesson?

			CLÉA
		With Monsieur Front.  I'm paying for boxing lessons.

			MASSEAU
		Boxing?  For Chéri?

			CLÉA
		Why not?

			MASSEAU
		Surely he's ferocious enough already?

			CLÉA
		It uses up his energy.  He's looking well.

			MASSEAU
		(Massaging her neck)  Not as well as you, my dear.

			CLÉA
		You always did like the decrepit.

			MASSEAU
		(Flash of jealousy)  What does Chéri like?

			CLÉA
		You'd better ask him, old thing.

			MASSEAU
		I hate it when you call me that.

			CLÉA
		Sorry?

			MASSEAU
		Old thing.

			CLÉA
		Masseau!

			MASSEAU
		I'm still as jealous as a silly boy.

She lets him kiss her affectionately.

			CLÉA
		Not all boys are silly.

			MASSEAU
		Yes they are.  I was one myself.

			CLÉA
		Why so cruel about my changeling?

			MASSEAU
		You must allow me a little pique.

			CLÉA
		You're a going concern, Masseau.  Chéri isn't.

			MASSEAU
		Is he not?

			CLÉA
		He needs me.

			MASSEAU
		And he is, of course, delicious.

CHÉRI enters in shirt and trousers, his hair wet.

			CHÉRI
		Who's delicious?

			CLÉA
		What happened?  Where's Monsieur Front?

			CHÉRI
		I gave him a nosebleed.

			MASSEAU
		Congratulations.

			CLÉA
		You beat him?  I told you if you kept up the training - you look wonderful, he hasn't marked your face at all this time - let me look at you - Masseau, are you going?

			MASSEAU
		Before I'm any more de trop.  Shall we see you on Friday?

			CLÉA
		Perhaps.

			MASSEAU
		Do try.

			CHÉRI
		We'll let you know.

			MASSEAU
		Au 'voir, then.

MASSEAU goes.  CHÉRI grasps CLÉA.

			CHÉRI
		Smell me.

			CLÉA
		(Sniffs at his neck)  Guerlain?

			CHÉRI
		If it's good enough for you -

			CLÉA
		But not by the bucketful.  You'll bankrupt me.  Stand still.  (She ties his tie.)  You're going to be late for lunch.  (He doesn't reply.  Casually)  Who'll be there?

			CHÉRI
		Oh, the usual bores - Marie-Louise -

			CLÉA
		(Puzzled)  Marie-Louise?  Again?

The doorbell rings.  CHÉRI reacts.

			CLÉA
		What's the matter?

He shakes his head.  ROSE enters, whispers in CLÉA'S ear.  CLÉA looks surprised, goes out, followed by ROSE.  CHÉRI looks after them warily.

CLÉA enters again at once.
			CLÉA
		Your mother's here!

			CHÉRI
		(Aghast)  My mother?

			CLÉA
		What can she want at this hour?

			CHÉRI
		How the hell should I know?  Where is she?

			CLÉA
		Down below, Rose is bringing her up.  Is anything wrong? - Chéri, don't go!

But he goes.  ROSE enters.

			ROSE
		Madame Peloux, Madame.

			CLÉA
		And it is me she wants to see, not Chéri?

			ROSE
		She says you.

			CLÉA
		At eleven o'clock in the morning?  (She crosses to the glass, renews her lipstick.)  It must be money, what else could it be - she paid far too much for that place, do I need any powder?

			ROSE
		(Inspects)  No, Madame.  (She straightens CLÉA'S collar.)

			CLÉA
		(Sighs)  All right.  Show her in.

ROSE goes.  CLÉA checks her hair in the mirror.  CHARLOTTE appears.  She is Cléa's age, expensively dressed, but without Cléa's style and is overweight.

			CHARLOTTE
		Cléa!

			CLÉA
		Hullo, Charlotte.

			CHARLOTTE
		(Stands back to inspect CLÉA)  Cléa!  One look at you and everything's forgotten.

			CLÉA
		Sit down.

			CHARLOTTE
		Oh this ensemble!  (Tugs at the hem as she sits.)  I don't think it suits me but others seem to like it.

			CLÉA
		You look amazing.

			CHARLOTTE
		Really?  No, no, I don't count any more.  I'm finished.  I'm no longer a woman and d'you know (lowers her voice) - if you want the honest truth I couldn't be happier.  (Touches her crutch.)  All that fire in here?  Dead.

			CLÉA
		(Cheerfully)  You won't be needing the hosepipe then?

			CHARLOTTE
		There's no need to be vulgar, Cléa.

			CLÉA
		I'm only teasing.

			CHARLOTTE
		Cléa!  You don't change, you're the same as twenty years ago.  Same sense of fun -

			CLÉA
		What's the matter, am I missed already?

			CHARLOTTE
		(Awkwardly)  I haven't come about that.

Pause.  She looks around.

			CHARLOTTE
		The boy not here?

			CLÉA
		In the cellar, counting the bottles.

			CHARLOTTE
		You see?  I've given you a treasure!  Well - loaned.  What a beautiful room! -  Rose is a treasure.  Who's the big oaf downstairs, the new manager - any good?

			CLÉA
		Not good enough for you to pinch him off me.  Cigarette?

CHARLOTTE demurs, then sighs and accepts.

			CHARLOTTE
		Bad for my poor heart, you know - I'm down to twenty a day.  Brandy only on Saturday and Sunday - well, at home.  (Sighs)  Our lovely Sundays, eh?

			CLÉA
		Let's just accept it, Charlotte.

			CHARLOTTE
		Oh I don't give up so easily!  We'll have our Peloux Sundays again, sooner than you think.  Tennis, picnics -

			CLÉA
		Poker?

			CHARLOTTE
		(Pause, stiff)  That's up to you, Cléa.

			CLÉA
		I really don't have the time these days.

			CHARLOTTE
		You will, before long.  Are we alone?

			CLÉA
		Of course.

			CHARLOTTE
		Chéri's down below, you said -

			CLÉA
		Yes!

			CHARLOTTE
		Good.  It's about Chéri.

			CLÉA
		You know, you won't believe me but I had a feeling it might be.

			CHARLOTTE
		Yes.
		Well.
		(Slight pause.)  As you know, Cléa, I've always had my own style in life.

			CLÉA
		You have, Charlotte.

			CHARLOTTE
		My own - ambience...

			CLÉA
		I remember.

			CHARLOTTE
		(Sighs)  Days of wine and roses, eh?  Taking Chéri to the park to sail his little boat and his choo-choo train.  Buying him picture books, tin soldiers...

			CLÉA
		Telling him Emil the abortionist was his uncle... the girls his cousins from Cologne -

			CHARLOTTE
		I was trying to create a family atmosphere!

			CLÉA
		They gave him too many sweets.

			CHARLOTTE	
		No they didn't.

			CLÉA
		Yes they did.  They'd have ruined his teeth if I hadn't stepped in.

			CHARLOTTE
		The girls adored him!  I'm an en famille sort of person, Cléa, and I make no apology for it.  At heart I'm just an old-fashioned middle-class person.  There were wild years, I admit it, but they're all over now.  A respectable life has a great many advantages, you know.

			CLÉA
		Charlotte!  You're not thinking of getting married?

			CHARLOTTE
		(Trills with laughter)  Me?  Me?!  Well, one never knows.  But not this time.

She leans forward, puts a gloved hand on CLÉA'S knee.

			CHARLOTTE
		Cléa my dearest, I am about to see all my dreams come true.  Peace - prosperity - a family......Who knows, in time, some little angels?

			CLÉA
		Angels?

			CHARLOTTE
		(Rises)  Come here!  (She embraces CLÉA, sits down again.)

		I have some news.  Chéri -
			CLÉA
		Yes?

			CHARLOTTE
		I am arranging for Chéri to be married.

CLÉA sits very still.

			CLÉA
		Married?  Congratulations.  Does he know?

			CHARLOTTE
		He hasn't said anything to you?

			CLÉA
		No.

			CHARLOTTE
		Ah!  The little beast, keeping it to himself!  He'll make me die laughing one of these days.

			CLÉA
		(Impassive)  Yes, a comedian.

			CHARLOTTE
		Well, there was no hurry.

			CLÉA
		Really?

			CHARLOTTE
		Good heavens, we don't plan to get these children wed before - well, not for six weeks at least.

			CLÉA
		Who is `we'?

			CHARLOTTE
		Marie-Louise and me, of course.

			CLÉA
		Marie-Louise?  The everlastingly lovely Marie-Louise?

			CHARLOTTE
		Yes!  It's her daughter - Edmée!

			CLÉA
		Edmée?  That little thing?  What are you talking about, she's 14 years old.

			CHARLOTTE
		Was, my sweet.  Not any more.  Edmée is 18 years of age.  She doesn't have my looks of course, but she's a charming little thing...a princess, you can see that.

			CLÉA
		I wouldn't know.  (Lies back, smoking)  There was a prince once, but he was Russian.

			CHARLOTTE
		To see life opening up for a sweet young girl as she's entrusted to the arms of my own dear Chéri - what are you laughing at?

			CLÉA
		Life opening up for a girl handed over to Chéri?  You might as well throw a rabbit to a stoat.

			CHARLOTTE
		How can you say such things?  Chéri is kind, gentle -

			CLÉA
		You'd know that, would you?

			CHARLOTTE
		I am his mother.

			CLÉA
		Since when?

CHARLOTTE, offended, doesn't answer.

			CLÉA
		Come on, Charlotte, there's nobody here.  Since when have you been his mother?

			CHARLOTTE
		My dear - you're upset, I've upset you.  I'm sorry, Cléa.  Oh, I'm so cross with myself, how could I have been so clumsy, I should have taken it gently, not come crashing in.  I do understand, a shock like that -

			CLÉA
		Shock?  I'm not shocked, Charlotte, I've been expecting this since Chéri was so high.  Since I first started taking him about so that he wasn't left to servants for months on end.

			CHARLOTTE
		(Soppy)  You bought him his first velvet suit, remember?  He looked so beautiful, like something out of a picture book.  Remember when I put him in the Flower Festival?  All naked among the roses?

			CLÉA
		His feet were dirty.  You knew I could never pass a stray dog.  You saw me coming.  Every time I took him from you he was thin and miserable, and every time you got him back he was glowing.

			CHARLOTTE
		That's not fair.

			CLÉA
		It's the truth.  You can have him back, Charlotte.  Debt, drugs and alcohol free.  I would even say he does me proud - well - except -

			CHARLOTTE
		Except what?

			CLÉA
		You never know with Chéri, do you?  Which way he's going to jump.  (Laughs)  At least he's not predictable - she'll have her work cut out.

			CHARLOTTE
		Edmée?  Yes, obviously.  But there are ways...

			CLÉA
		How do you mean?

			CHARLOTTE
		If you're a young woman.

			CLÉA
		I daresay.

			CHARLOTTE
		Poor boy.

			CLÉA
		Why?

			CHARLOTTE
		I'm not reproaching you, Cléa dear, I wouldn't dream of it, but, well, he's never had time to lead the life of a bachelor has he, poor boy?  And now we're both losing him.  Of course she is enchanting.

			CLÉA
		Good.  I hope he's awash with love.

		So - is that all, Charlotte dear?  I do have a hotel to run.

			CHARLOTTE
		I thought, under the circumstances -

			CLÉA
		You didn't honestly think I'd be upset?  Charlotte!  I've been waiting for you to find a good match for him, take him off my hands.

			CHARLOTTE
		Oh, what a relief!  Naturally - I mean, you've been à deux for five years, you and Chéri - it's bound to be a blow - we've dreaded telling you.
			CLÉA
		"We"?

			CHARLOTTE
		Chéri and me.  He cares for you, Cléa.  A great deal.  Naturally he's worried that his leaving will be - well - an upset.

			CLÉA
		(Laughs)  My dear, that is so sentimental.  You talk as if we were in love!

			CHARLOTTE
		(Draws in breath)  Oh!  Oh, what a relief.  I'm nothing but a romantic fool but - there you are -I am his mother and he is irresistible, we've always agreed on that.  Come here, give me a hug!  Let me look at you.  Ah, soignée as ever, we must go shopping, there's nothing like spending money to lift the spirits.  As soon as the lovebirds are cooing away in Italy - we'll get back to our Sundays - (she bangs CLÉA on the shoulder) - our mad Sundays, eh?  We've missed you...

Despite herself CLÉA groans.  CHARLOTTE embraces CLÉA again. 

			CHARLOTTE
		...ooh, you smell good.  Jicky?

			CLÉA
		As ever.

			CHARLOTTE
		Lovely.  Perfume sinks in better when the skin starts to go, have you noticed?

She picks up her bag and gloves.

			CHARLOTTE
		I'll send round the wedding invite as soon as it's printed.

She goes.

			CLÉA
		(Calls after her)  I look forward to it!

Alone, she seems on the point of collapse.
CHÉRI enters upstage and watches her.
Silence.  She turns, and they look at each other.

			CHÉRI
		Has she gone?

CLÉA turns away.

			CLÉA
		Why didn't you tell me?

			CHÉRI
		She thought it should come from her.

			CLÉA
		You were afraid.  You got her to do it for you.

Silence.

			CHÉRI
		I didn't want to hurt you.

			CLÉA
		Why have I never been able to stop you from lying?  Perhaps you were worried.  With you it's impossible to tell.

		Surely I've known you long enough for you to trust me.

			CHÉRI
		I do trust you.

			CLÉA
		Not enough, it seems.  I deserved better.

		That you should want to leave me - find someone - younger - that's inevitable.  I've even been looking around for some nice rich girl.

			CHÉRI
		Are you joking?

			CLÉA
		Between Charlotte and me you haven't exactly been exposed to steady domestic bliss.  Perhaps that's what you need.

			CHÉRI
		So why are you looking like that?

			CLÉA
		Because you disappoint.

		Are you going to tell me about her?

		Is she rich?  A good dowry?

He writes down a sum.  She puts on her glasses, reads it.

			CLÉA
		I've known better.

			CHÉRI
		There may be more from her father.

			CLÉA
		Which one?

He shrugs.

			CLÉA
		So - you'll be all right for money.  Plus what you've salted away here for the past five years.

He slides to the floor, rests his head on her knees.

			CHÉRI
		I've been worth it, haven't I?

She bends tenderly behind him, checks herself.

			CLÉA
		Tell me about Edmée.  Is she nice looking?

CHÉRI shrugs.

			CLÉA
		Intelligent?

			CHÉRI
		We'll see.

			CLÉA
		Don't you know?

			CHÉRI
		I'll find out, I'm marrying her, aren't I?

Behind him CLÉA'S head goes down in pain.  She pulls herself together.

			CLÉA
		And she loves you?

			CHÉRI
		She says so.

			CLÉA
		What about you?

			CHÉRI
		Never mind about me - what about you?

			CLÉA
		Me?

			CHÉRI
		What are you going to do?

			CLÉA
		What do you want me to do?  Become a nun, get fat, because you're leaving me?

		Is that what you want?

			CHÉRI
		Yes.

Silence.

			CLÉA
		Poor baby.  So I lose a young lover, change one wicked boy for another - it won't be the first time.

			CHÉRI
		I know that, and I don't care.  I don't care that I wasn't the first.  What I want is to be the last.

			CLÉA
		You want your leaving to finish me off?  Sorry, my dear.  Admittedly you're not a passing fancy like the others.  You're my project - the stray that I rescued and fed and...  (But she cannot go on.)

		Ring for Rose, would you?

			CHÉRI
		(Alarmed)  What for?

			CLÉA
		(Smiles brightly)  She can put your things together, have them sent over to L'Hotel Peloux.

			CHÉRI
		Peloux's?  Why?

			CLÉA
		You can't expect to do your courting from this house.

			CHÉRI
		Why not?

			CLÉA
		Sending flowers from my telephone?  Put your jacket on, we're going out.

			CHÉRI
		Where?

			CLÉA
		To buy you a wedding present!  What would you like?

			CHÉRI
		(Playing her at her own game, thinks)  A pearl tie-pin - a really big one - no, wait.  I've seen a cigarette case in white jade, with the edge set in diamonds.

			CLÉA
		I see, something really discreet and enough to bankrupt me.  Oh, I'm going to be so well off when you're gone.  I shall be able to afford dowries for all your children.

			CHÉRI
		Great, you can be godmother to the first boy.

			CLÉA
		(Laughs)  Only if he looks like me.

She helps him on with his jacket, and he follows her out.  We hear them laugh, off.  A door closes.

SCENE TWO

The garden of L'Hotel Peloux, a few weeks later.

A large parasol open on the grass over an ornate garden seat.

The sounds of a tennis game, off.  EDMÉE, in tennis clothes, enters.  She wanders about, and gazes this way and that, looking for someone.  She turns her head, seeing someone coming, sits under the parasol, stretching out as if at ease.

MASSEAU enters.  He bears a tray with a jug of lemon squash and a glass.

			MASSEAU
		I thought you might be thirsty.

			EDMÉE
		Thank you - I am!

		(He pours a drink for her.)  Thank you.

			MASSEAU	
		Not at all.  Sweets to the sweet.

EDMÉE sits up and drinks.  Sounds of the tennis game.  They gaze offstage.

EDMÉE'S gaze wanders.

			MASSEAU
		He went over to the lake.

			EDMÉE
		Ah.

			MASSEAU
		You mustn't think anything of it.  He's like that.

			EDMÉE
		I know.

They both look up as CHÉRI looms over them.  MASSEAU gets the message.

			MASSEAU
		Au 'voir - I must attend to my duties as sommelier before Charlotte removes my equipment.

He goes.  CHÉRI stands, apart.

			EDMÉE
		What's the matter?

He shrugs and moves away.

			EDMÉE
		Why?  What have I said?

			CHÉRI
		(Shrugs)  If you need to ask.

			EDMÉE
		Fred, I'm not a mind reader.

Silence.

			CHÉRI
		If you must know, I'm avoiding our hostess, Madame Peloux.

			EDMÉE
		Why do you call her that?

			CHÉRI
		It's her name.

			EDMÉE
		She's your mother!  (Slight pause.)  You were very rude to her.

			CHÉRI
		Almost as bad as you with Marie-Louise.

			EDMÉE
		I'm always very polite with Maman.

			CHÉRI
		Exactly.

			EDMÉE
		We hardly ever meet, Fred.  When she does call it's usually to introduce a new father.

			CHÉRI
		Mine were always Uncles.

They laugh.  He throws himself down, hands behind his head.

			EDMÉE
		You get used to being on your own.

			CHÉRI
		I never did.

			EDMÉE
		How did you manage?

			CHÉRI
		By making myself extremely attractive.

			EDMÉE
		...and lovable...

			CHÉRI
		Not lovable.  Attractive.  It's not the same thing.

			EDMÉE
		(Slight pause.)  Were you moved round a lot?

			CHÉRI
		Yes.

			EDMÉE
		There are advantages.

			CHÉRI
		Such as?

			EDMÉE
		It's very educational.  You pick up things.

			CHÉRI
		You mean how to mix drinks -

			EDMÉE
		Make pasta, darn ballet shoes -

			CHÉRI
		Shoe horses.

			EDMÉE
		(Laughs)  Shoe horses?

			CHÉRI
		A friend used to take me to the country.

Slight pause.  She sits, arms round her knees.

			EDMÉE
		I used to keep snails.

			CHÉRI
		(Astonished)  So did I!

			EDMÉE
		In a shoe box.  I painted their shells - did you?

			CHÉRI
		No.  I trod on them.

She swipes at him.

			CHÉRI
		I put one in the pot au feu once - in a hotel restaurant.

			EDMÉE
		What happened?

			CHÉRI
		I was asked to apologise.

			EDMÉE
		Did you?

			CHÉRI
		No.

Silence.

			EDMÉE
		Funny we both kept snails.

			CHÉRI
		Yes.

			EDMÉE
		They're so dignified.

He laughs, making her lose face.

			EDMÉE
		What?

			CHÉRI
		You're funny.

He jumps up, gives her his hand.  She looks up at him.  He regards her, and decides he wants to kiss her.  They embrace.  Then she throws her arms around him joyously.  He is surprised and laughs.  She smiles at him and goes.  He follows her off, thoughtful.

SCENE THREE

Cléa's salon.  Late morning.  CHARLOTTE enters, weighed down with expensive shopping bags.  She is followed by MASSEAU, laden, who shrugs in apology to ROSE.

			ROSE
		Desolée, Madame Peloux, but Madame is not at home.

			CHARLOTTE
		Ouf, I'm exhausted!  How long will she be?

			ROSE
		I couldn't say, Madame.

CHARLOTTE waves ROSE away dismissively.

			CHARLOTTE
		(To MASSEAU)  I need to know if she'll lend me Hector and two of the maids, I can never keep mine - well, not being behind the Rue St Honoré but I prefer the Faubourg.  The fresh air.  (She calls)  Rose - (ROSE appears) put these in water for Cléa, I saw them in the market.  (ROSE takes the droopy bunch and looks at it and puts it to one side.)  Brandy, Masseau?

			MASSEAU
		(Looks at his watch)  Thank you no, I have a luncheon engagement.

			CHARLOTTE
		Did you speak to your tailor?

			MASSEAU
		My tailor?

			CHARLOTTE
		About the weskits for the ushers.  Tell him to give me a price today, oh I must sit down, walking is so bad for the legs.

ROSE brings her a drink.  She drinks.

			CHARLOTTE
		That's better.  (Indicates for ROSE to top up her glass, then waves her away.  ROSE goes.)

		I'm full of fizz!  I can hardly keep still I'm so excited.  The marriage of my only child, Masseau.  My son.

			MASSEAU
		A milestone.  A happy milestone.
			CHARLOTTE
		And this lovely weather!  Do you find it sets you up?

			MASSEAU
		In what way, Charlotte?

			CHARLOTTE
		You know.  As I came out of Patou's a man crossed the street and started to follow me.  I was even tempted for a moment, was that dreadful of me?

			MASSEAU
		Not at all - (calls) Rose - (ROSE enters.)  When are you expecting Madame?

			ROSE
		Not until after lunch, Monsieur.

			CHARLOTTE
		I can't wait that long I have caterers and dressmakers to see - I hope Cléa can spare you, Masseau, it's a waste of time talking to Chéri - (CLÉA appears in a kimono) - I was saying, Cléa, it's useless trying to talk to Chéri, he's in another world.

			CLÉA
		(Lighting a cigarette)  What do you want?

			CHARLOTTE
		I need you to do the menus for the wedding breakfast and put up some of the guests - Chéri's school friends, I don't want them underfoot eating me out of house and home - oh, and I'll need Hector and a couple of the maids, and what are you going to wear?  Goodness, my hands, I must have an oil treatment before the day.  Would you believe, Masseau, that these were once called the loveliest hands in Europe?  Alphonse the Twelfth drank champagne from these very palms.  He called them his little pearl shells.

			CLÉA
		(Laughs)  Yes, well being a King is no guarantee of wit.

			CHARLOTTE
		Now.  What about it?

			CLÉA
		About what?

			CHARLOTTE
		I'm thinking cerise.  My dressmaker is going mad with suspense, I keep changing my mind.

			CLÉA
		What about the little one?

			CHARLOTTE
		The little one?

			CLÉA
		The bride.  What will she be wearing?

			CHARLOTTE
		White of course - they'll see to all that.  I thought perhaps a soft salmon - with a bolero.

			MASSEAU
		No.  No bolero.

			CHARLOTTE
		Why not?  Oh well, first I need to know what Cléa's coming in so's we don't clash.  By the way, Chéri would like a nice little cabin cruiser as a wedding present.  He said not to say anything but, well -

			CLÉA
		He shall have it.

			CHARLOTTE
		And you'll be wearing?

			CLÉA
		Charlotte, you can't really expect me to be present at Chéri's wedding.

			CHARLOTTE
		Why ever not?

			CLÉA
		It won't do.

			CHARLOTTE
		But you must!

			MASSEAU
		Surely it will be more comme il faut for Cléa not to appear...

			CLÉA
		...after all, I'm not Hamlet's father.

			CHARLOTTE
		(Baffled)  Who said you were?  Of course you must come, you're my closest friend - everybody knows we've always shared him.  Now.  What about the hat?  It's not that I want mine bigger but after all I am the mother of the groom, anyway, Marie-Louise will probably put both our noses out of joint parading her bosoms.

			MASSEAU
		They are magnificent.

			CHARLOTTE
		So - have you decided on your ensemble?

			CLÉA
		Charlotte.  Settle for the cabin cruiser.  You must do without me.

			CHARLOTTE
		But that'll spoil everything!  People need to see you there!

			CLÉA
		No.  This wedding is your affair.  Marriages have nothing to do with me nor I with them.

			CHARLOTTE
		You're doing it on purpose!  You're trying to spoil -

			CLÉA
		No I'm not.

			CHARLOTTE
		Yes you are!  Anyway, how am I to see to it all on my own, I can't see to everything!

			CLÉA
		What about Marie-Louise?

			CHARLOTTE
		We're not speaking.  That bitch is too mean to pay for even one bridesmaid, she's spending all the money on herself.  (To MASSEAU)  Do something!  Talk her round, make her change her mind.  (MASSEAU shrugs and turns away.  She turns to CLÉA.)  Are you coming or not?

		(Silence.)

		It's Chéri's wedding!

Silence.  She looks from one to the other, grabs her bags and the flowers.  MASSEAU ushers her out.

			CHARLOTTE
		Poodle!
Silence.

			CLÉA
		Masseau, will you do something for me?

			MASSEAU
		Anything.

			CLÉA
		Put me on a train to somewhere.

			MASSEAU
		As you wish.

			CLÉA
		Today.

He nods.  She approaches, takes his hands.

			CLÉA
		Look after him for me.

			MASSEAU
		I'll do  my best.

			CLÉA
		He'll need someone.

They look at each other.  She turns to go.

			CLÉA
		Tell her she can have Hector.

			MASSEAU
		You will write?

But she has gone.  ROSE is at the door.

			MASSEAU
		You heard?

			ROSE
		Oui, Monsieur.

			MASSEAU
		You will go with her?

			ROSE
		(Shakes her head)  She says not.

			MASSEAU
		She shouldn't be alone.  If anything happened to her -

			ROSE
		(Low)  If anything happened to her I'd kill myself.

			MASSEAU
		Then we must be sure that it doesn't for both our sakes.

SCENE FOUR

The foyer of a spa, with elegant furniture and Kentia palms.  The sound of a trio.  CLÉA is sitting alone, a tray of tea before her.  Pause.  The MASSEAU appears.

			CLÉA
		Masseau!

			MASSEAU
		May I?  (He sits across from her.)

			CLÉA
		What are you doing here?

			MASSEAU
		Don't worry, all is well.

			CLÉA
		Tea?

			MASSEAU
		Thank you.

			CLÉA
		(Pouring)  When did you arrive?

			MASSEAU
		This morning.

			CLÉA
		You must try the mud baths.

			MASSEAU
		Anything to oblige.

			CLÉA
		You can oblige me by taking the next train back to Paris.

			MASSEAU
		I thought you might need me.

			CLÉA
		For what?  Why should I want to see you?

MASSEAU rises.

			MASSEAU
		I'm sorry.  I'll go.

			CLÉA
		(Snarls)  Oh sit down.  Now you're here you might as well spill the beans, it's what you came for, isn't it?  (He sits again, drinks tea.)

		What did she wear in the end?

			MASSEAU
		Cream and tobacco satin, striped and pleated from the hip.

			CLÉA
		(Winces)  And the bad diamonds I suppose.

			MASSEAU
		No.  The jet parure.

			CLÉA
		Really?  Was that you?

			MASSEAU
		(Shakes his head)  Chéri.  He refused to leave the house until she toned it down.

Despite herself CLÉA laughs.

			CLÉA
		Wicked boy.  What about the hat?

He shakes his head.

			MASSEAU
		Pink roses.  And birds.

			CLÉA
		Birds?

			MASSEAU
		With beaks.  Her milliner's geste de saison.

			CLÉA
		Open or closed?

			MASSEAU
		Gaping on the next.  To celebrate fertility.

Silence as they savour this.  The silence deepens.

			CLÉA
		And the little one?

			MASSEAU
		Like a sacrificial offering.  No jewels or train, just a chaplet of flowers.

			CLÉA
		Was there a choir?  Chéri likes church music.

			MASSEAU
		No.  The ceremony was very short.  It was as if they wanted to seal the bargain before -

			CLÉA
		- before he changed his mind.

Silence.

			MASSEAU
		The ring was on her finger without a glance.

Silence.

			CLÉA
		(Quietly)  Masseau, do me the favour of leaving before I push this fork in your face.

He rises.  At the exit he stands, watching her.  And leaves.

Light change to night.

CLÉA sits, immobile.

On the other side of the stage EDMÉE and CHÉRI, on honeymoon, are on a balcony overlooking a moonlit sea.  He stands by the balcony, gazing out to sea.  EDMÉE, immobile, watches his back.

ACT TWO

SCENE ONE

At Charlotte's.  The decor is dreadful.  The sound of voices.  CHARLOTTE enters, crosses quickly with a large vase of flowers.  She returns, crosses, exits, trilling a song, returns with an armful of large satin cushions, exits and returns, consulting her notebook.

			CHARLOTTE
		(Calls to staff offstage)  Hortense!  Hortense!  Has Francoise made the bed?

			VOICE
		(Off)  Oui Madame Peloux.

			CHARLOTTE
		With the Duke of Siena's sheets?

			VOICE
		Oui, Madame.

			CHARLOTTE
		And the flowers?

			VOICE
		Oui, Madame.

			CHARLOTTE
		Well send Emil out to open the gates - what's the time?  (She looks at her watch-necklace.)  Heavens, they'll be here if the train is on time - (calls)  Hortense, did you speak to Chef?

			VOICE
		Oui, Madame.

			CHARLOTTE
		And he knows about the riz a l'Italienne?

			VOICE
		Oui, Madame.

CHARLOTTE, placated, straightens her frilled jacket, puts a large silk flower in her button-hole, crosses to her handbag, takes out scent and sprays herself - spits on her finger and smoothes her eyelashes, pulls down her corset then flops into a chair, throwing off her uncomfortable high-heeled shoes.  She heaves a sigh and rests her head against the back of the chair, closes her eyes and relaxes, humming.  The humming stops as she dozes.  And jerks up at the triple hoot of a car horn.  It is repeated as she hops about putting on her shoes.

			CHARLOTTE
		(Calls)  They're here!  Hortense - Francoise - Antoine - they're here!

She dashes off.  The sound of voices.  The CHÉRI enters, pale and unsmiling.  CHARLOTTE takes his coat, as EDMÉE follows them on.

			CHARLOTTE
		Darling boy - welcome home!  Give your Maman a big kiss!  (She tries to embrace him.)

			CHÉRI
		Where is Antoine?

			CHARLOTTE
		Bringing in the luggage.  Let me look at you.  The lovebirds!  Ooh, (hugging EDMÉE) filling out already!  And so fresh after all that travelling!

			EDMÉE
		We stopped overnight in Lyon, Fred was tired.

Sound of luggage being brought in, offstage.  CHARLOTTE goes to door calls.

			CHARLOTTE
		Up the stairs to the Empress suite!

			CHÉRI
		Don't let them open the trunks.

			CHARLOTTE
		Why not?

			EDMÉE
		Why, Fred?

			CHÉRI
		I'm only staying overnight.

			CHARLOTTE
		But I've changed everything round for you.

			CHÉRI
		Changed what?  If you've moved anything in my room I'm getting back on the train.

More noises, off.  He goes out swiftly.

			EDMÉE
		Fred!

			CHARLOTTE
		Take no notice, dear, he just likes to grumble.  He's keeping his smiles for you.

			EDMÉE
		(Doubtfully)  Yes.

			CHARLOTTE
		Be patient, it's early days.  Does he bother you much at night?  Don't worry, it'll wear off.  As I always tell virgins, just let the man take the lead.  And laugh at their jokes of course.

			EDMÉE
		Jokes?

			CHARLOTTE
		Always be a good listener.  Men do like to be admired.

			EDMÉE
		Thank you.  May I ring Maman?

			CHARLOTTE
		You can but you won't get her, she's in Cairo.  No bridesmaids!  If there's one thing I can't stand it's meanness.  Never mind, you were better on your own.  There's always one bridesmaid who looks prettier than the bride and that leads to trouble upstairs at the reception - are you feeling all right?

			EDMÉE
		If I could just -

			CHARLOTTE
		Of course.  Everything's ready for you, including silk sheets.  Dinner at eight.

EDMÉE goes.  CHARLOTTE trills.  CHÉRI enters.

			CHARLOTTE
		She's looking a little washed out.

			CHÉRI
		Who?

			CHARLOTTE
		Who?!  Your bride, who did you think I meant?

			CHÉRI
		Has anyone asked for me?

			CHARLOTTE
		No - we didn't expect you back so soon.

			CHÉRI
		No messages?

			CHARLOTTE
		From Cléa you mean?  Heavens no - she's been cavorting on the Riviera, it's in all the columns.  There's a new man - well, she needs consolation.  She'll have put her hand in her pocket, I daresay.

			CHÉRI
		She's not in Paris?

			CHARLOTTE
		Came back yesterday.  I meant to ring, ask her over, but I thought no - after all, she's not family.  I must see to the duck.  I'm using Cléa's recipe, I know you like it.

			CHÉRI
		Now, now, Madame Peloux...

			CHARLOTTE
		What?  What did I say?

			CHÉRI
		Your face fell off.  Go and stir something.

She goes.  He stands, motionless, looks up as EDMÉE comes in quietly.

			EDMÉE
		Come and see upstairs - it's amazing.

			CHÉRI
		Madame Peloux been putting bells on the bedclothes?  (He looks round)  God, this house is ugly.

			EDMÉE
		You wanted to be here.  As soon as we got to Florence you said we had to come home.

			CHÉRI
		Home yes.  This isn't home.

			EDMÉE
		That's because we're early.  The builders haven't finished.  By next week we'll be under our own roof.

He moves away abruptly.

			EDMÉE
		What's the matter, what have I said?

He stands, his back to her.

			EDMÉE
		Chéri?

			CHÉRI
		(He turns, savage.)  Don't call me that.

He exits.
Pause.
EDMÉE wanders over to Chéri's briefcase.  Despite herself she is curious.  She begins to browse, going through his papers.
CHÉRI enters behind her.

			CHÉRI
		What are you doing?

			EDMÉE
		(Jumps)  Nothing.  I was waiting for you.

			CHÉRI
		Do you want to see them?  (He nods at the papers in her hand.)

			EDMÉE
		Of course not.

			CHÉRI
		Go ahead.

			EDMÉE
		I'm not interested in your old love letters.

			CHÉRI
		I don't have any old love letters.  Take a look!  (He grabs papers, offers them) - receipts - bills - more bills - Listen to this:  "My dearest - " oh, it's from Madame Peloux.

Laughing, he throws paper at her, and sits.  EDMÉE picks up a piece of paper.

			CHÉRI
		What's that?

			EDMÉE
		Nothing.  It's just -  (But her voice falters.  She reads)  "I'm not bored, I'm being good and taking my treatments till you arrive..." (he jumps up) "...maybe through the window, throwing off your clothes, my darling savage -"

			CHÉRI
		Give me that!  (He grabs the letter.)

			EDMÉE
		I don't need to read the signature.  I know who it is.  (She sits, weeps.)

			CHÉRI
		Come on...don't cry.  What's all the fuss about?

			EDMÉE
		Go away, I hate the sight of you!

			CHÉRI
		What's the matter?  What have I done?

			EDMÉE
		You don't love me, you've never loved me!  You think I don't see things?  I've had enough!  (She sits weeping and mopping her eyes.)

			CHÉRI
		You're mad.
			EDMÉE
		I wish I were.  Mad people live in another world - it can't be worse than this one - oh this room, it's horrible.

			CHÉRI
		You don't have to stay here.

			EDMÉE
		No - it wouldn't trouble you if I walked out of that door this minute!  If you're not being rude you're ignoring me.  Do you think I don't know who you're thinking of all the time?

CHÉRI steps back as if slapped.

			CHÉRI
		(Silence.)  You've been keeping that to yourself.  (He walks about.)

			EDMÉE
		Fred, I'm sorry.

			CHÉRI
		Don't be, you haven't upset me.  It's better like this.

			EDMÉE
		You see, you admit it!

			CHÉRI
		(With a kind of innocence)  But of course.

			EDMÉE
		(Beginning to cry again)  Then why did you marry me?

			CHÉRI
		(Thinks)  How should I know, anyway that's got nothing to do with what you just said.  What you said is wonderful.

			EDMÉE
		You really think I didn't know?

			CHÉRI
		Now don't spoil it.

			EDMÉE
		I want you to love me and you love that old woman!

			CHÉRI
		Yes, she's old!  Older than you - old enough to be my mother - take care of me - the best thing I've ever had in my life.  (She glares at him.)  Till now.

			EDMÉE
		Go back to her then!

			CHÉRI
		It's all very well to say that.

			EDMÉE
		If you miss her so much -

			CHÉRI
		I'm not used to being without her!  It hurts.

			EDMÉE
		You can say this - to me?

			CHÉRI
		Who else should I say it to?

			EDMÉE
		Ohh!

			CHÉRI
		If I can't tell you - you're always talking about trust, about being open.  Now that I -

			EDMÉE
		You're monstrous, a monster!

			CHÉRI
		Because I'm telling the truth?  What do you want from me?  Have I been out of your sight for the last two months?  Have I slept in a separate room, in a separate bed?

			EDMÉE
		And that's a proof of love?

			CHÉRI
		Better than calling me a liar and dishonest and everything else you stand there throwing at my head.  Is that love?

			EDMÉE
		(Humbly)  No.  It's jealousy.

			CHÉRI
		And that's supposed to excuse everything.  You don't want me to lie, but you don't want the truth.  You want me to forget everything and everybody I knew before you...

			EDMÉE
		Yes!

			CHÉRI
		...whether or not they've been good to me, looked after me -

			EDMÉE
		Oh, say her name!  What can it do to me now?

			CHÉRI
		There's no need for you to...it's the way you... there's no respect for her -

			EDMÉE
		Then go back there, while she's still got a few years left!

			CHÉRI
		And you're eighteen, with white skin and hair all over the pillow...I suppose you think that's unique?

			EDMÉE
		Oh, Fred.  That's the last thing you'll ever say to me.  I want a separation.  A divorce.

			CHÉRI
		Come on...

			EDMÉE
		I mean it.

			CHÉRI
		And what would that solve?

			EDMÉE
		Everything.  I don't care, just let me go.

			CHÉRI
		It won't solve anything.

			EDMÉE
		Why not?

			CHÉRI
		Because you love me.  It's not your fault.

			EDMÉE
		Oh Fred...I don't want to leave you...

			CHÉRI
		Of course you don't...

The sound of a bell.

			EDMÉE
		What's that?

			CHÉRI
		Madame Peloux, ringing the dinner bell.

			EDMÉE
		Already? - oh, I look awful!  Don't go in without me - promise - wait for me - I'll only be a minute.  (At the door)  You will be here?

She kisses him on the cheek, goes quickly.

Alone, CHÉRI stands, abstracted for a long moment.  He walks up and down, suddenly grabs his coat and goes.

A pause.

EDMÉE enters.  She looks around.

			EDMÉE
		Fred?

SCENE TWO

Cléa's salon, later the same evening.

CLÉA and MASSEAU are sitting, a pedestal table between them with coffee and liqueurs.  CLÉA is smoking with a cigarette holder, her elbow on the arm of the chair.  MASSEAU is doing his embroidery.

			MASSEAU
		(Undertone, counting stitches)  One, two, three, four, five...

			CLÉA
		Masseau!  I forgot to give you a drink!  Pick-me-up?

			MASSEAU
		(Nods)  ...nine...(mutters, then)  I'm sorry, my dear, there's a little blue reindeer demanding my attention - the detail in this tapestry is maddening.  (Takes off his glasses) I'd love an armagnac.

CLÉA leans over, looks at his embroidery.

			CLÉA
		Mmm.  You're so clever.  (He smiles up at her.)

			MASSEAU
		A cushion for Charlotte.  She needs four.

			CLÉA
		(Looks at the cushion)  Four?

			MASSEAU
		A commission.  (Glum)  Her design.

			CLÉA
		(Neutral)  Yes.

			MASSEAU
		I'll do just the one.

He bends to his sewing, watches her as she moves about restlessly.

			CLÉA
		I should pack.

			MASSEAU
		Must you go?

			CLÉA
		Oh I think so.  Not that there isn't plenty to do here.  Did I tell you, I've been offered a share in a racehorse!

She moves about restlessly...stops.

			CLÉA
		I can't breathe the same air.

			MASSEAU
		In the end one has to -

			CLÉA
		Bite the bullet?  Yes, of course.  But not yet.  I thought Sicily.

			MASSEAU
		(Pricks his finger, gives a little cry)  Ow!  Sorry.  (He sucks his finger.)  We went to Sicily - remember?

			CLÉA
		Of course I remember.

			MASSEAU
		You were bored.

			CLÉA
		What a memory!  Perhaps Spain.

			MASSEAU
		The last time you came back from Spain you were unable to stand.

			CLÉA
		Liar.  When I behave badly it's at home in a decent bed, with my own cooking and all the comforts.  I'll probably settle for Antibes.

			MASSEAU
		Antibes?

			CLÉA
		Why not?  I can talk to the old women in the lobbies and the old men will tell me stories and carry my things and we'll both know it's a waste of time.

			MASSEAU
		Thank you.

			CLÉA
		I didn't mean you!  I met a retired Colonel in St Jean de Luz - impressive, like a decorated cliff face.

			MASSEAU
		But past it?

			CLÉA
		I never found out.  He was wearing a corset.

			MASSEAU
		Sounds delicious.

CLÉA laughs.  Pause.

			CLÉA
		I've been a fool, keeping a lover for five years.  I should have gone in for passades - litte adventures - not one that -

			MASSEAU
		These things don't always arrange themselves.

			CLÉA
		Five years with the same man?  It's like being marooned in the colonies and coming back and no-one knows you any more and you've forgotten how to dress.

			MASSEAU
		Oh you mustn't do that - forget how to dress.

			CLÉA
		You mean you'd abandon me?

			MASSEAU
		Because you wouldn't be Cléa.

			CLÉA
		I'll make sure my seams are straight.

			MASSEAU
		(Slight pause)  It's going to take time.

			CLÉA
		I know.  What I feel for that boy - why should it be any less because he's young enough to be my son?  It's probably the reason for it - that's something you'll never know - the pain of not having a child when it's too late.  You think - oh, perhaps next year or - I'll keep the next one.  Then it's too late.  What, for so long, you didn't want, you now can't have.  Ever.

She sits.  Silence.  MASSEAU looks across at her bent head.  She looks up.

			CLÉA
		I sent him a note.

			MASSEAU
		A note?

			CLÉA
		I said goodbye.  Farewell from a tired old mistress to a vicious young lover.

			MASSEAU
		It was his choice.

			CLÉA
		Was it?  (Rises)  I shouldn't have cut him off.

			MASSEAU
		Why not?

			CLÉA
		Because he's not ready for it.  I took away his protection.  I moved from where I was to a place he couldn't deal with.  If I'd been really chic I'd have made a man of him instead of thinking only of myself and his body.

			MASSEAU
		You've given that boy everything.  You've cared for him as he will care for his children.  It's a one-way path, not a game of tennis.  Your job's been to throw love at him.  You've done that.

			CLÉA
		I'm not his mother.

			MASSEAU
		Aren't you?  Cléa - the important thing is not to be loved, but to be allowed to love.  You have that.

CLÉA suddenly leaps to her feet.

			CLÉA
		What I cannot stand is this empty house!

			MASSEAU
		Empty?  The guests are here, the staff is here...I'm here.

			CLÉA
		I'll go away for a while.  Who knows - new horizons, new wardrobe, new diet - you won't recognise me!

			MASSEAU
		Not recognise you?  This is Masseau, remember?

She crosses, gazes at herself in the glass for a long moment, turns, walks around the room.  Stops.

			CLÉA
		I don't think I can come back here.  Live here.  Not any more.

Silence.

			MASSEAU
		Then sell.  Sell the hotel.

			CLÉA
		But what would I do?  Where would I go?  What for?  What does it matter?

		(Silence.)

		I miss him.

		I miss him in my bed.

MASSEAU moves, scraping his chair.  He tries to put his sewing into his embroidery bag without success, irritating CLÉA.

			CLÉA
		What's the matter?

		Masseau?

He does not reply but sits with his head bent.  She crosses and stands over him.

			CLÉA
		Are you crying?

			MASSEAU
		No.

			CLÉA
		Why are you crying.  Oh, for heavens' sakes, I shan't be away forever.

He rises, hugs her fervently and stumbles off.  She lifts his embroidery bag, but he has gone.  ROSE enters with a valise.  CLÉA gives her the bag.

			ROSE
		Madame?

			CLÉA
		Mislay it.  To save his soul.

ROSE, curious, has a look at the embroidery.  They laugh.

			CLÉA
		My poor Masseau.  Why do I treat him so badly?

			ROSE
		Because he wishes it, Madam.  You are his raison d'être.

			CLÉA
		Oh Rose!  Did you find my new ring?

			ROSE
		It was in the crocodile box.

She hands the ring box to CLÉA, who takes out the ring and puts it on.  They both murmur approval.

			CLÉA
		What do you think?

			ROSE
		Oh Madame - now that is an emerald!

			CLÉA
		Good colour eh?  (They pore over the ring.)  I got it in St Jean de Luz.  (As ROSE makes to speak)  You'd better put it in the safe.  No, I'll keep it on for now.

ROSE puts the ring box in her pocket, begins to pack the valise with books and diary from Cléa's table.  CLÉA watches.

			CLÉA
		Rose -

			ROSE
		Madame?

			CLÉA
		Things aren't going to be the same from now on.  If you feel like making a change I'd understand.

			ROSE
		(On her knees, looks  up, stricken)  You mean -leave you, Madame?

			CLÉA
		I'm not thinking of myself.  But if life becomes quieter -

			ROSE
		With Madame?  (She rises.)  Never.  (CLÉA laughs.)  Who would look after your laundry?  If anyone else dared to touch those white collars -

			CLÉA
		You'd hit them with the flat iron.

			ROSE
		Twice.

			CLÉA
		But will there be enough to keep you busy -

			ROSE
		Busy?  Hector needs consolation, he's losing his hair, Francois has warts and I'm treating Madeleine for shingles.

			CLÉA
		Good grief Rose, a hospital!  You'd be better off coming south with me.

			ROSE
		(Quickly, with a big smile)  Oh, Madame!  Thank you!

			CLÉA
		(Laughs, out-manoeuvred)  Good.  We'll eat salade niçoise and play boules in the sun.

			ROSE
		The bathroom's ready and the electric pads are on the bedside table.

			CLÉA
		Ah, my face massage!  No.  Pack it all away.  And throw the henna in the sink.

			ROSE
		(Shocked)  If you say so, Madame.

She goes.  Left alone CLÉA stands, scratching herself idly.  She crosses to the mirror, inspects her face and the underside of her chin.  She stops, thinking she has heard something.  But there is silence.  She shakes her head, sits, head back.

CHÉRI comes in abruptly.  He is pale, out of breath, and looks in a bad mood.

			CLÉA
		It was you.  (Cool and controlled)  Come in.  Hello.

			CHÉRI
		Hello.  (More gently)  Hello.  (Slight pause.)  Your light was on.

			CLÉA
		So you thought you'd drop in.

			CHÉRI
		I've been outside.

			CLÉA
		I know.

			CHÉRI
		Are you alone?  (She gestures at the empty room.)  You're not going out?

			CLÉA
		Not for the moment, no.

			CHÉRI
		May I?

She shrugs.  He sits down.  Silence.

			CHÉRI
		Are you surprised to see me?

			CLÉA
		When have you known me to be surprised?

Silence.  CHÉRI gets up, throws off his coat.

			CLÉA
		Not there - how many times must I tell you - that silk is two hundred years old!

CHÉRI is looking at her ring.  He grabs her hand.

			CHÉRI
		What's this?

			CLÉA
		An emerald.

			CHÉRI
		I can see that.  Where did you get it?  (She does not reply.)  Who gave it to you?

			CLÉA
		Not anyone you know well.

			CHÉRI
		Charming.

			CLÉA
		Yes, isn't it?  The colour's magnificent -

			CHÉRI
		I asked you who gave it to you?

			CLÉA
		Not your business, wouldn't you say?  What are you doing here?

			CHÉRI
		Ah!  You mean you're interested?

			CLÉA
		Well, I'm not going to sit here all night watching you being misunderstood.

Silence.

			CLÉA
		Have you come to say you're sorry?

			CHÉRI
		Sorry for what?

			CLÉA
		That's up to you.  (He fidgets restlessly)  I'm not going to force you.

A very long silence.

			CHÉRI
		(Mutters)  Sorry.

			CLÉA
		What?

			CHÉRI
		(Louder)  Sorry.

			CLÉA
		You can do better than that.

			CHÉRI
		(More gently)  I'm sorry.  (Quickly retracting it)  Just to get some peace!

			CLÉA
		Peace?  I'm at peace.  What's upsetting you?  Isn't it working out?  Don't tell me she's up to mischief already.

			CHÉRI
		Oh, hilarious.  (He laughs loudly and then turns on her savagely)  You can cut that out.

			CLÉA
		"I forbid you to insult my wife."  Isn't that what you were going to say? 

He starts to kick out at the furniture.

			CHÉRI
		What are you doing?  (Sees the telephone in her hand.)

			CLÉA
		I'm ringing the police.

He pulls it away from her.

			CHÉRI
		Come on, put it down.  (He sits her down, and sits on the floor, leaning against her.)

		You are so cruel.

		Instead of understanding...asking me - decently - what I'm doing here - (he goes quiet.)

			CLÉA
		Understanding what?

			CHÉRI
		Understanding!

He buries his face in her lap.  She bends, takes him in her arms and rocks him gently.

			CLÉA
		My dear, what's wrong?  What have they done to you?

			CHÉRI
		Oh, your scent - (he lifts her pearls, touches her white collar) - ohh, it's fantastic - (he cries and laughs at once.)

She pulls away, looks at him intently.

			CLÉA
		(Softly)  Dear God.

		(CHÉRI looks up at her.)  Look at me.  Why are you here?

			CHÉRI
		You know why - (she gazes at him.)  Have I changed?

			CLÉA
		You're thinner.

			CHÉRI
		I didn't think it would hurt so much.

			CLÉA
		Oh darling.  (She kisses his face.)  You can't stay.

			CHÉRI
		Why not?

			CLÉA
		You're married.

			CHÉRI
		Why didn't you stop me, you should have stopped me.

			CLÉA
		How could I?  Would you have listened?

Silence.

			CHÉRI
		I'm coming back.

			CLÉA
		No, you're not.

			CHÉRI
		Yes I am, I'm here.

			CLÉA
		Who have you told?

			CHÉRI
		Nobody.

			CLÉA
		Only you and I know?
			CHÉRI
		So far.

		What about you?

			CLÉA
		What about me?

			CHÉRI
		Are you alone?  Is there anyone else?

She looks at him.

			CHÉRI
		There's somebody else.

She does not reply.

			CHÉRI
		You've met someone.  Come on, answer me!  I'll kick his face in.

CLÉA laughs, but is near to tears.

			CLÉA
		Oh, you idiot - you idiot!  Is that what you thought?

			CHÉRI
		So you don't have a lover.

			CLÉA
		I don't have a lover.

			CHÉRI
		You're alone.

			CLÉA
		I'm alone.

			CHÉRI
		I knew it.

He sits.

			CLÉA
		What did you tell them?  Over there.

			CHÉRI
		Let's go to bed.

			CLÉA
		No, I want to know what sort of mess you've left.  Were you hateful?

			CHÉRI
		No.

			CLÉA
		Where is she now?

			CHÉRI
		Who?

			CLÉA
		Your wife!!

			CHÉRI
		At Peloux's.

			CLÉA
		Waiting for you.

			CHÉRI
		Perhaps - I don't know.

			CLÉA
		Have you eaten?

			CHÉRI
		Yes, in a bar.

			CLÉA
		Not at home?

			CHÉRI
		I'm home now.  (He gets up and walks round the room, putting out his hand, touching things.)  So this is what they call happiness.  I never knew.

He approaches, bends and kisses her hand.
She rises, rings the bell.
ROSE appears.  CLÉA indicates CHÉRI on the chaise-longue.

			CHÉRI
		Hullo, Rose.

			ROSE
		Monsieur Chéri - good evening.

			CLÉA
		Rose, in the morning we'll want -

			ROSE
		Lemon tea and sliced melon for Madame, cafe creme, oeuf au plat et cotelette grillée for Monsieur.

			CHÉRI
		She's a mind-reader.

			CLÉA
		Then I'm afraid we shall have to -

			ROSE
		- put back the Chinese room as Monsieur's dressing room.

			CLÉA
		If you would.

			CHÉRI
		(To ROSE, points to the valise)  What's that?

			ROSE
		A valise, M'sieu.

			CLÉA
		I was sorting out some things.  You can put them away, Rose.

ROSE puts the books and papers back on the desk and leaves with the valise.  The telephone rings.  CHÉRI jumps up, alert, as she leans over and answers it.

			CLÉA
		Hullo...Monsieur who?  No - you've got the wrong number, there's no Monsieur here.  (She puts down the telephone.)

			CHÉRI
		Who was it?

			CLÉA
		A wrong number.

CHÉRI shudders.

			CHÉRI
		I'm cold.

She envelopes him in her arms.  They stay, clinging together.

			CHÉRI
		Remember?

			CLÉA
		Of course.

			CHÉRI
		I was feeling as I'd always felt in your arms - safe - warm -

			CLÉA
		It was autumn -

			CHÉRI
		I said -

			CLÉA
		You said - "kiss me".

			CHÉRI
		And you went still.  So I kissed you.  And you tried to make a joke of it.

			CLÉA
		And you said -
			CHÉRI
		I said: "I know all I need to know."

			CLÉA
		Bloody nerve.

			CHÉRI
		You said never mind that, you couldn't see us doing anything.  So I made you, and we did. And we went on doing it.

			CLÉA
		Oh hush.

			CHÉRI
		Why?  You love me.

			CLÉA
		Do I?

			CHÉRI
		Yes.  I never could be sure.  Until now.

			CLÉA
		But now you can.

			CHÉRI
		Oh yes.

			CLÉA
		How?  Why?

			CHÉRI
		Your note.

			CLÉA
		My note?  All I said was goodbye.

			CHÉRI
		Exactly.

			CLÉA
		And that told you I loved you.

			CHÉRI
		Oh yes.  My wonderful, generous Cléa!  Say it - say you love me - (they embrace.)

Lights down.

SCENE THREE

Lights up on the same set, early next morning.  The sunlight slants in.  The sound of a thrush.  Silence, broken by the sound of the garden bell, followed by the ring of the doorbell.  ROSE enters, crosses quickly in a brown dressing-gown, her greying hair in a plait.  The sound of voices off.  CLÉA enters, tying her elegant negligee and then brushing back her hair quickly before the glass as ROSE returns, breathless from the stairs.

			ROSE
		Madame...

			CLÉA
		Ssh, he's asleep.  What's up?

			ROSE
		A visitor, Madame.

			CLÉA
		At this hour?

			ROSE
		It's Madame Peloux.

			CLÉA
		(Half asleep)  What the devil does she want?  Oh.  After her pedigree pup - 

CHARLOTTE, hat and hair awry, erupts into the room.  ROSE goes.

			CLÉA
		Charlotte, do come in.

			CHARLOTTE
		Where is he?

			CLÉA
		I'm sorry?

			CHARLOTTE
		Where is he, what have you done with him, is he here?

			CLÉA
		Is who here, Charlotte?

			CHARLOTTE
		Chéri!!

			CLÉA
		Chéri?  Here?  Oh my dear, what's happened - oh Charlotte, not already...

ROSE enters with a tray.  CLÉA pours a brandy for CHARLOTTE who sits, knocks it back automatically.

			CLÉA
		Oh, Charlotte...
			CHARLOTTE
		They're asking for the dowry back already.

			CLÉA
		Well they would.

			CHARLOTTE
		It's you, isn't it?  You've put him up to this, you might as well admit it, where have you hidden him.  I'm not leaving this room till you tell me - tell me where he is!

			CLÉA
		Why should I?

CHARLOTTE pursues CLÉA round the room.

			CLÉA
		Even if I knew...

They stand, facing each other.

			CHARLOTTE
		Oh, I've seen this coming.  This started a long time ago.  I had a child and you didn't, so you had to go one better all the time - thinner - bigger establishment - it's there for all to see - revenge, it's in your eyes, it always was, you've been jealous of me since the old days in the banlieue when my bust put yours to shame.  I'm not leaving till you tell me!  What are you doing?

			CLÉA
		Ringing for help.

CHARLOTTE, with a roar, launches herself at CLÉA, head butts her in the stomach and storms out.  Door slam.

CLÉA thrown back, winded, into an armchair, lifts her head, eyes closed, laughing quietly.  She jumps as ROSE enters hurriedly.

			CLÉA
		What is it?

			ROSE
		Madame Peloux would like a word.

			CLÉA
		What?!  She just tried to kill me!!

		(The sound of a car hooting makes her jump.)  What's that?

			ROSE
		It's Madame Peloux's limousine - they're just leaving.

			CLÉA
		Rose.  Will you make sense?  If Madame Peloux is leaving, how on earth can she want a word with me?

			ROSE
		Oh, not Madame Peloux, Madame.

			CLÉA
		Then Who?!

			ROSE
		Madame Peloux - Madame Frédéric Peloux.  The wife of - Monsieur Chéri.

			CLÉA
		You mean the little girl?  Here?

			ROSE
		Waiting below to see you.

			CLÉA
		No - it's too much.  Who let her in - you think you'd be safe under your own roof.

			ROSE
		Shall I send her away?

			CLÉA
		Yes...no...I don't know.  What does she want?

			ROSE
		She says it's urgent.

CLÉA groans.

			CLÉA
		Is she upset?

			ROSE
		No, very calm.

			CLÉA
		I don't like the sound of that.

She walks up and down.  ROSE crosses, pours CLÉA a glass of Evian.  She sips.

			CLÉA
		What does she look like?  Presentable?  Well turned out?

			ROSE
		(Thinks)  No, Madame.

			CLÉA
		Pretty?  Attractive?

ROSE, the good Catholic, cannot lie.

			ROSE
		(Shrugs)  She is young.

			CLÉA
		Young.

		(Pause)  Oh, send her up.

As ROSE exits, CLÉA sweeps Chéri's hat and coat behind the sofa.  ROSE returns, ushers in EDMÉE, bobs and goes.

			EDMÉE
		Madame.

			CLÉA
		Madame Peloux, good morning.  Might I know to what I owe the privilege - it's very early.

			EDMÉE
		No doubt my being here would be a surprise at any hour of the day.

			CLÉA
		Not at all.

Hiatus.  Neither knows what to say next.

			EDMÉE
		I've come about Fred.

			CLÉA
		Fred?  Oh - yes.

			EDMÉE
		It is his name, Madame.

			CLÉA
		Yes, well if that's what you've come here to inform me - what time is it?

			EDMÉE
		I'm sorry for the inconvenience.  Obviously it's something serious -

			CLÉA
		(Panics for a second)  Serious?

			EDMÉE
		Don't be alarmed, you've nothing to fear from me.

			CLÉA
		Why on earth should I?  Sit down, do.

			EDMÉE
		(Sits)  Fred's gone.

			CLÉA
		Where?

			EDMÉE
		I mean he's left me.

Silence.

			EDMÉE
		I came to ask if he was here.

			CLÉA
		Here?  In this house?

			EDMÉE
		He's not here?  But - where is he?  Where could he be if he's not - (her voice fails her.)

CLÉA looks at her without answering.

			EDMÉE
		I was so sure I'd find him here.  I'm sorry.  I know I look ridiculous.  We arrived yesterday - I went up to our room before dinner - when I came down he was gone.

			CLÉA
		Is that so alarming?

			EDMÉE
		Yes!  I waited and waited.  (A pause)  I know how much Fred means to you - his fondness for you.

			CLÉA
		What is your point?

			EDMÉE
		Obviously, with things as they were he wouldn't have come to me without...without your  blessing.  (Bravely)  I've come to ask for him back.

			CLÉA
		I've told you, he's not here.

			EDMÉE
		Then where is he, what am I going to do?

			CLÉA
		I'm not the one to ask.  I've let him go.  Now you want me to get him back for you.  Hardly my affair.

			EDMÉE
		You're being very unkind.

			CLÉA
		Unkind?  Because I can't do anything for you?

EDMÉE rises, with some dignity.

			EDMÉE
		Goodbye, Madame.

			CLÉA
		(Rises)  You're not going to do something stupid?

			EDMÉE
		I'm going to look for my husband.

			CLÉA
		He'll be back.  Or he won't.  Either way it's for him to decide.

			EDMÉE
		No it isn't.

			CLÉA
		He'll do as he wants, believe me.

			EDMÉE
		You make him sound a monster.  If that's what living here has done then I am a lucky escape for him.  He's not yours any more, and not yours to disparage and criticise and imply that - that -

She stops short.  CHÉRI appears in the doorway in pyjama bottoms, his hair untidy, his chest bare.  CLÉA follows EDMÉE'S gaze, turns and sees him.

			CHÉRI
		What's going on?

He advances.

			CHÉRI
		This is jolly.  What are you doing here? (Silence.)  Hmm?  (To CLÉA)  What's she doing here?

			CLÉA
		What do you think, kicking up a fuss.  Put some clothes on.

			CHÉRI
		(To EDMÉE)  Why have you - ?

			EDMÉE
		Don't touch me.

			CHÉRI
		I wasn't going to.  (To CLÉA)  Why is she so frightened, did you frighten her?  (To EDMÉE)  How did you know I was here?
			CLÉA
		Oh, leave the girl alone.

			CHÉRI
		Why?

			CLÉA
		It's over, isn't it?

			CHÉRI
		I think that's my business.  (To EDMÉE)  What do you want?

			EDMÉE
		What do you think I want!

			CHÉRI
		You shouldn't be here.

			EDMÉE
		What about you?!

			CLÉA
		Oh, for God's sake let her go!

			CHÉRI
		(To EDMÉE)  Why come here?  You should have waited.

			EDMÉE
		Waited?  For what?

			CHÉRI
		Go home and wait for me.

			EDMÉE
		For what?

			CHÉRI
		For whatever I decide.

She looks at him, and goes.  He crosses to the window and looks down to see her go.  The door closes, off.

			CLÉA
		I'm sorry.  It's my fault.  I should never have let her in but I was afraid she'd start making a fuss and wake the whole household.  (He doesn't answer.)  You were wonderful.  So adult - you usually react like a twelve year old.

			CHÉRI
		Hard not to, with you.

CLÉA flinches, but rallies.

			CLÉA
		It's the secret of your charm.  Just now when you were talking, I could hear myself.  I thought - he's got it from me, that authority.

			CHÉRI
		You sound surprised.

			CLÉA
		I'm flattered.  Though it makes me wonder what you're here for.

			CHÉRI
		I'm here for help.

			CLÉA
		Help?  Why?

			CHÉRI
		Because it's not possible to change everything overnight.  If I thought you could, I was an idiot.

		How am I to manage?  I don't know what to do - how am I supposed to cope with all this, I need you to tell me.  You're my window on the world.

CLÉA collapses in tears.

			CLÉA
		Oh you are so, so selfish - no, no more words, it's better to keep quiet before...(she weeps quietly).

		You didn't tell me she was beautiful.

He kisses her hands gently.

			CHÉRI
		My Cléa...

		My poor Cléa...

CLÉA, furious, snatches her hands away.

			CLÉA
		Stop it!

		Stop that.

		"Poor Cléa"!

		Did I come looking for you?

		D'you think I don't know what you're up to? - here tonight, there tomorrow, here the night after?  How long d'you think that'll last before she - that girl's mother is Marie-Louise - like mother, like daughter -

			CHÉRI
		Cléa!

			CLÉA
		Don't think you can bully me like that stupid child -

			CHÉRI
		Stop it.

			CLÉA
		No, I won't stop it.

			CHÉRI
		Yes you will.  You are not going to spoil everything, I won't let you spoil my Cléa...

			CLÉA
		(Pulls away)  Don't -

			CHÉRI
		Is that how Cléa would talk?  My Cléa, who showed me that she loved me by sending me a note, letting me go.  To make me happy.  (He kisses her gently.)  Remember what you said to me just before the wedding?

			CLÉA
		I don't remember saying anything.

			CHÉRI
		No, you were very quiet.  But you did tell me - what did you tell me?

			CLÉA
		Not to be mean.

			CHÉRI
		Not to let her suffer.  That's Cléa!  Even in there (he nods his head towards the bedroom) you were worried about how much harm we were doing - hurting someone weaker than -

			CLÉA
		No - stronger!  Happier!  The one you're going back to.

Silence.

			CLÉA
		Why did you come?  Why did you make love to me?  Without that I could have managed.

			CHÉRI
		I needed my warm, safe place.  Cléa, was it worse to do what we did than sit side by side on a sofa talking all night?  I don't think so.
			CLÉA
		If only you hadn't stayed.

			CHÉRI
		I came because I needed you.  I needed to see you.

			CLÉA
		You needed - it's always You, isn't it?

			CHÉRI
		Yes!  Me!  Here I am, drunk as ever on the happiness of what we do together - of what you give me.  But you saw her.  How frightened she is.

			CLÉA
		Of course she's frightened.  Her happiness and her whole life now depend on you.

			CHÉRI
		Me?

			CLÉA
		How do you feel about that?

			CHÉRI
		(Thinks)  It's a worry.

			CLÉA
		I daresay.  Not what you've done before, is it - take care of someone.  Do you love her?

			CHÉRI
		No.  That's another worry.  How can I tell her I love her when I don't?  How can I lie to her?

			CLÉA
		Of course you can lie to her.

			CHÉRI
		You want me to?

			CLÉA
		Yes!  Until you accept that you do love her.

			CHÉRI
		I do?

			CLÉA
		Would you have married her otherwise?  Done something you didn't want to do?  Chéri!  We both know better than that.

			CHÉRI
		Do we?

			CLÉA
		I'm over.  It's her turn to tremble.
They stand, gazing at each other.

			CLÉA
		Time for you to go.

			CHÉRI
		I don't want to go.

			CLÉA
		Whether you do or not - !

		You must see.

		It might as well be now as later.

He stares at her without answering.

			CHÉRI
		I don't know what to do.

			CLÉA
		Do as I tell you.  Go home.

			CHÉRI
		Home!

			CLÉA
		Get dressed.  (As he turns obediently)  No!  Don't go back in there!

		I'll get your things.

She goes, returns at once with his clothes.  He is standing by the window, his body shining in the dazzling sunlight.  She catches her breath.

He turns.  She hands him his clothes and watches as he dresses but does not help him.  He puts on a shoe, hops, looking for the other.  She points to it and he puts it on.

			CLÉA
		Off you go.

But he cannot go.  He looks at her.  Then shakes his head.

			CLÉA
		(Quietly)  Chéri - do as I say.

He tries to approach her but she steps back, waves him away.  Furious and stricken, he looks at her, then turns and goes quickly.

CLÉA stands still.  Then, forcing herself to move, she walks about, fetches up at the looking glass.  She inspects her face, touches her jawline.

Lost, she moves about, tidying absently.

			CLÉA
		Why?
She moves back and forth, distracted.

			CLÉA
		Settle for what you can get!  

		Call him back!  He'll come.

		No.

		Don't do that.

		No.  No.

The garden bell rings.

			CLÉA
		(Turns)  Chéri?

She goes to the window.

THE END.