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.

NAPOLEON. Need that stop you?

LADY. Well, it is this. I adore a man who is not afraid
to be mean and selfish.

NAPOLEON (indignantly). I am neither mean nor selfish.