The Maids and Deathwatch by Jean Genet

Author:Jean Genet
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Grove/Atlantic, Inc.

MADAME:

Thank heavens. Which still doesn't account for those letters. What can she be doing? She's been gone an hour. Why didn't you tell me at once that Monsieur had phoned? He'll be furious.

CLAIRE:

We were terribly afraid of alarming Madame, of giving her a shock.

MADAME:

That was very bright. You're quietly killing me with flowers and kindness. One fine day I'll be found dead beneath the roses. Claire, what do you think of this coiffure? Do you like it?

CLAIRE:

If I might venture. . . .

MADAME:

Eh? If you might venture? Well, venture. I've full confidence in your opinion. Well? What do you think of it?

CLAIRE:

If I might be so bold as to make a suggestion, Madame's hair would look fluffier worn over the forehead.

MADAME:

Are you sure?

CLAIRE:

It would soften Madame's face.

MADAME:

Like that? You're right. You are a bright girl, Claire. You know, Claire, I've always thought you had a great deal of taste and that you were meant for better things.

CLAIRE:

I'm not complaining.

MADAME:

No, no, I know. But after all, you are more sensitive than the others. I realize that it's not much fun living with them. Fortunately you're with your sister. You're a family. But with a bit of luck you—

CLAIRE:

Oh! If I had wanted to!

MADAME:

I don't doubt it! [She listens] Listen! [She stands up] Listen! A car. It's her. Ah! [She looks at herself again in the mirror.]

CLAIRE:

Madame should have some tea because of the cold.

MADAME [laughing]:

You're trying to kill me with your tea and your flowers and your suggestions. You're too much for me, Claire. No. I've never felt so alive. Oh! And served in the best tea set, the very best set! Such pomp! Such elegance! [She wants to leave, but CLAIRE stands between her and the door.]

CLAIRE [imploringly]:

Madame must drink it. Otherwise. . . .

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