JULIA. Our duty, if we're wise, We never shun. This Spartan rule applies To every one. In theatres, as in life, Each has her line— This part—the Grand Duke's wife (Oh agony!) is mine! A maxim new I do not start— The canons of dramatic art Decree that this repulsive part (The Grand Duke's wife) Is mine! ALL. Oh, that's the matter! LISA (appalled, to LUDWIG). Can that be so? LUD. I do not know— But time will show If that be so. CHORUS. Can that be so? etc. LISA (recit.). Be merciful! DUET—LISA and JULIA. LISA. Oh, listen to me, dear— I love him only, darling! Remember, oh, my pet, On him my heart is set This kindness do me, dear- Nor leave me lonely, darling! Be merciful, my pet, Our love do not forget! JULIA. Now don't be foolish, dear— You couldn't play it, darling! It's "leading business", pet And you're but a soubrette. So don't be mulish, dear- Although I say it, darling, It's not your line, my pet— I play that part, you bet! I play that part— I play that part, you bet! (LISA overwhelmed with grief.) NOT. The lady's right. Though Julia's engagement Was for the stage meant— It certainly frees Ludwig from his Connubial promise. Though marriage contracts—or whate'er you call 'em— Are very solemn, Dramatic contracts (which you all adore so) Are even more so! ALL. That's very true! Though marriage contracts, etc. SONG—LISA. The die is cast, My hope has perished! Farewell, O Past, Too bright to last, Yet fondly cherished! My light has fled, My hope is dead, Its doom is spoken— My day is night, My wrong is right In all men's sight— My heart is broken! [Exit weeping. LUD. (recit.). Poor child, where will she go? What will she do? JULIA. That isn't in your part, you know.