[The same, Fatoum and Zoraya]
[Zoraya, veiled, cautiously enters unnoticed from the street and goes
to the middle of the foreground. While getting her bearings, she sees
Fatoum on the landing-place and goes toward her, raising her veil.]
ZORAYA. Fatoum!
FATOUM. Ah! Zoraya!
ZORAYA. (Imposing silence with a gesture) Yes!--I concluded that
results would be surer if I repeated the mesmeric treatment which I
gave Joana this morning.
FATOUM. Oh! I am grateful to you! You have arrived at an opportune
time! It is the end of the banquet. They are now offering
congratulations. Joana is about to enter her apartment. You will pass
for one of the new servant women whom I have chosen!
[She points to the landing-place of the right stairway and leads her
to it.]
ZORAYA. Ah! it is there?
FATOUM. Yes, where the windows are lighted.
ZORAYA. (Looking about) And he!--Where is he?
FATOUM. He?
ZORAYA. The husband!
FATOUM. In the large chamber waiting for the poor child to be put to
bed.
[Zoraya stops on the stairway an instant to turn towards the banquet
hall, then follows Fatoum.]