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[mansuetus]

Tranquility!

[ Guess who is back in her high spirits. Lucrezia is wearing red silks and is evidently strolling the gardens this morning ]

It is my birthday today, I have decided.

[ a pause in which she just looks pleased with herself and then she explains ]

As I do not know how to count the days here when compared with the count common in Rome, I have chosen today for my birthday. I shall accept my greetings at the garden.

[ prim and proper but those who know her by now can see the jest in her words. ]

And I have decided what I wish as my gift, if you would hear it!

[ wait for it. ]

For the birthday of the one called the illustrious Lucrezia Borgia, me and garden both require - a swing!

[ a beat. ]

And cake.

[ that would actually be all. Lucrezia Borgia, ladies and gentleman. She would be sitting in the garden, reading a book, for those who wish to find her. ]

Comments

[jilt]

Then we'll have to educate it, won't we?

[mansuetus]

You will help me? I feel that very few can refuse you.

[jilt]

You'd be right. And it's your birthday, so of course I'll offer you any help you might ask.

[mansuetus]

If you were me, what would you ask for your birthday?

[jilt]

The moon and the stars, perhaps. See who is devoted enough to capture them for you.

[mansuetus]

If I shall one brave and bold enough I shall name myself the most fortunate woman on this ship.

[jilt]

Brave and bold is all well and good, but trade them both for great cunning and you'll be well set.

[mansuetus]

Perhaps I am cunning enough for a dozen men.

[jilt]

Only perhaps?

[mansuetus]

Perhaps a dozen, but certainly ten!

[jilt]

A fine goal, my darling. Do let me know how you get on with it.

[mansuetus]

Will you tell me your own number?

[ for she doesn't doubt this one is more cunning than half the men she met in her life and she is a Roman for the love of everything. ]

[jilt]

In good time, my darling. After your company has come and gone, you and I shall speak.