NAPOLEON. Psha! I blush for you.
LADY (naively). Yes: soldiers blush so easily! (He growls and
turns away. She looks mischievously at him, balancing the
despatches in her hand.) Wouldn't you like to read these before
they're burnt, General? You must be dying with curiosity. Take a
peep. (She throws the packet on the table, and turns her face
away from it.) I won't look.
NAPOLEON. I have no curiosity whatever, madame. But since you are
evidently burning to read them, I give you leave to do so.
LADY. Oh, I've read them already.
NAPOLEON (starting). What!
LADY. I read them the first thing after I rode away on that poor
lieutenant's horse. So you see I know what's in them; and you
don't.
NAPOLEON. Excuse me: I read them there in the vineyard ten
minutes ago.
LADY. Oh! (Jumping up.) Oh, General I've not beaten you. I do
admire you so. (He laughs and pats her cheek.) This time really
and truly without shamming, I do you homage (kissing his
hand).
NAPOLEON (quickly withdrawing it). Brr! Don't do that. No more
witchcraft.
LADY. I want to say something to you--only you would
misunderstand it.
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