Scene II
NATO [entering at right]. Mamma! O aunt, are you here, too?
[Hugs her and kisses her.
CHACHO. O my only treasure! [Kisses her.] How fresh and pretty you are! Where are you going? Are you going out when I have just come?
NATO. What are you saying, dear aunt? I will come back again immediately. I am only going to make a few purchases at the bazaar. [Turning to Salome] Dear mamma——
[They begin to speak together in a low tone.
CHACHO [aside]. Yes, yes, her father is right! [Aloud.] I will go and see what the children are doing [trying to rise]. Come here, you pretty rogue, and give me your hand. I feel exhausted.
[Nato helps her.
SALOME [offering her hand]. Let me help you, too.
CHACHO. May God give you health and a life as long as mine! [To Nato:] O my heart’s angel—if only I have my wish and see you wear the bridal wreath!
SALOME. God grant it, dear aunt!
CHACHO. He will, he will, my child! [Going toward the entrance.] Good heaven! how old I have grown!
[Goes out at the left.