Duke. My child, allow me to present to you His Distinction Don Alhambra del Bolero, the Grand Inquisitor of Spain. It was His Distinction who so thoughtfully abstracted your infant husband and brought him to Venice.

Don Alhambra. So this is the little lady who is so unexpectedly called upon to assume the functions of Royalty! And a very nice little lady, too!

Duke. Jimp, isn't she?

Don Alhambra. Distinctly jimp. Allow me! (Offers his hand. She turns away scornfully.) Naughty temper!

Duke. You must make some allowance. Her Majesty's head is a little turned by her access of dignity.

Don Alhambra. I could have wished that Her Majesty's access of dignity had turned it in this direction.

Duchess. Unfortunately, if I am not mistaken, there appears to be some little doubt as to His Majesty's whereabouts.

Casilda. (aside) A doubt as to his whereabouts? Then we may yet be saved!

Don Alhambra. A doubt? Oh dear, no — no doubt at all! He is here, in Venice, plying the modest but picturesque calling of a gondolier. I can give you his address — I see him every day! In the entire annals of our history there is absolutely no circumstance so entirely free from all manner of doubt of any kind whatever! Listen, and I'll tell you all about it.

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