Cast
Countess (f):
A noble lady of late forties to fifties perhaps late fifties. She is stern seeming.
Servant (m or f):
A long-suffering member of the countess’ household. They are one of the countess’ confidantes.
Location
A hall in the countess’ castle.
Time
Takes place in an unknown time. It is a medieval looking setting, but with some modern styling.
SETTING: A hall in the countess’ castle.
AT RISE:COUNTESS is alone on stage. She is pacing nervously. She carries herself with a regal air. She appears anxious and frustrated. Eventually she is joined by SERVANT.
COUNTESS
Is it here yet?
SERVANT
It is Madame Countess.
COUNTESS
[keeping her back to the servant, gazing off in
contemplation.]
And what was it?
SERVANT
A girl, madame.
COUNTESS
[Smiling an unkind smile.]
You can tell the mother she is free to go. The child stays here though.
SERVANT
Madame, I’m afraid the mother died. She didn’t make it.
[COUNTESS smiles again. This time it seems like it is good news she is receiving.]
COUNTESS
Isn’t that fortunate for her.
SERVANT
About the girl, madame. Might I suggest finding a family for her? With the mother gone there is really no reason to keep her here. She has no place amongst us.
[COUNTESS finally turns to SERVANT]
COUNTESS
She has the perfect place here. That disgusting child will be forever a living, breathing reminder of my husband’s infidelity. His betrayal of our vows for some serving girl whore.
SERVANT
Even more reason to have her as far away from here as possible. Perhaps send her oversees?
COUNTESS
Absolutely not. She stays here with me. She will live and grow, but she will never leave. She will serve my household as her mother did and I will watch her closely.
SERVANT
The girl is innocent, madame. The count’s betrayal is nothing to do with she who has only just started to take breath.
COUNTESS
[Glaring at SERVANT for a few moments]
Bring the child to me. I should like to see her.
SERVANT
As you wish, madame.