The Chronicles of the Counts Dracula-Cardie. Adapted from Baron Olshevris novel «Vampires»

PETRO stands nearby in respectful silence. Although he is only about 67 years old the time has dealt him a terrible blow, his appearance is much older and he is dressed in a monk-like cowl. He holds papers and a pilgrim’s sack

PETRO

Your father lived simply. He barely spent his money.

CARLO

There is over a million florins in Venice alone!

Petro reaches into his sack and produces a jewelry box. He places it carefully onto the couch nearby

PETRO

These are your mother’s jewels.

Carlo sits down on the couch and motions for Petro to join him. He places the jewelry box on his knees and opens it, gently lifting the glittering treasures inside

CARLO

This was my father’s gift, I remember it as if it was yesterday.

A large tortoiseshell comb adorned with rubies lies inside the box among the jewels. Carlo caresses it with his fingers

PETRO

Our poor mistress loved them so.

CARLO

And where is the necklace? The one that the American gave my mother?

Petro shudders

PETRO

You are mistaken, there never was such thing.

Carlo looks at him in surprise

CARLO

The snake-shaped one? Don’t you remember?

Petro almost leaps from the couch

PETRO

Do you think I stole it?

CARLO

Dear God, of course not!

Petro paces the sitting room nervously

PETRO

I’ve locked up both the Castle and the Hunting House. I will send the money to wherever you wish.

Carlo closes the jewelry box and rises from the couch

CARLO

That will not be necessary. Once I am married, I will go back home to the castle.

Petro shudders and waves his arms

PETRO

What? No, no you wouldn’t dare!

CARLO

Why not?

PETRO

You must obey your mother’s last wish.

CARLO

I am sorry, but my mind is already made up.

Petro falls to his knees and kisses Carlo’s hands

PETRO

At least wait for me, wait until I’ve come back from Jerusalem, we will go there together.

INT-ENTRANCE TO THE CHAPEL-EVENING

Carlo inspects the chapel’s doors. They are sealed. The servants are crowded behind his back.

Carlo turns to his servants, confused

CARLO

What about my marriage? Open up the doors at once and start preparing for the wedding!