Come now, Jean and dance a
schottische with me.
[Jean hesitates.]
JEAN. I don't wish to be impolite to anyone but--this dance I
promised to Kristin.
JULIE. Oh, she can have another--isn't that so, Kristin? Won't you
lend Jean to me.
KRISTIN. It's not for me to say, if Miss Julie is so gracious it's
not for me to say no. [To Jean]. Go you and be grateful for the
honor.
JEAN. Well said--but not wishing any offense I wonder if it is
prudent for Miss Julie to dance twice in succession with her
servant, especially as people are never slow to find meaning in--
JULIE [Breaking out]. In what? What sort of meaning? What were you
going to say?
JEAN [Taken aback]. Since Miss Julie does not understand I must
speak plainly. It may look strange to prefer one of your--
underlings--to others who covet the same honor--
JULIE. To prefer--what a thought! I, the lady of the house! I honor
the people with my presence and now that I feel like dancing I want
to have a partner who knows how to lead to avoid being ridiculous.
JEAN. As Miss Julie commands. I'm here to serve.
JULIE [Mildly]. You mustn't look upon that as a command. Tonight we
are all in holiday spirits--full of gladness and rank is flung
aside. So, give me your arm! Don't be alarmed, Kristin, I shall not
take your sweetheart away from you.
[Jean offers arm. They exit.]
[PANTOMIME.--Played as though the actress were really alone. Turns
her back to the audience when necessary. Does not look out into the
auditorium.
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