In this sequence, we get to know some of the opera singers as they arrive and gossip about Caleb Lost, their host. This dialogue begins on page 20:

“Where on earth have we ended up? In all my long career as an itinerant artist, I've never seen a hotel like this.”

“Well, to be strange it's really strange, Fjodor, but… do you remember what this rich man had in the contract? 'Unique and special performance.' So far it's all been very special.”

“For that matter, our fee is special too.”

“For me it's business as usual, operetta singer. A diva like me certainly doesn't look at money, but at quality. And also at the hospitality, which here leaves a lot to be desired.”

(Caleb appears.) “If so, please accept my humble and heartfelt apologies, Frau Wundermann! If you don't like something, just let me know and your wish will be granted immediately. You see, this is not a hotel, but my home. My name is Caleb. Caleb Lost.”

“Our producer! Nice to meet you, Mr. Lost!”

“Mmmm… My dear, it's you who should excuse me. The journey was tiring. And great singers are fickle, as we know…”

“Otherwise you wouldn't be a great diva, Madame.”

“Lost. Yes, now I remember. It was you who signed us up.”

“That's right, Mr. Repin. I have chosen my favorite singers for this special evening… at least among the living.”

“Of course! What would you do with the dead ones?”

“I wonder… In your role, Jafin was really excellent.”

“That remains to be seen, my dear sir. He was good, no doubt about it. But all that remains of him are scratchy old records.”

“Now my valets will take you to your rooms and, since it is very late, they will serve you a light supper. Remember, if you need anything, it will be answered immediately.”

“Anything? Really?”

“Anything you want that does not contradict the contract, Frau Wundermann.”

“I will read it carefully again, then, dear Caleb.”

“Wait a moment, excuse me. We are not sure of the identity of the director. Some are betting on Graham Vick, some on Mario Martone.”

“The director will be me.”

“You!?”

“Um, excuse me… You may be locally famous, but I don't…”

“Exactly! You never know anything, Fyodor.”

“I'm sure Caleb is an artiste, a true artist. Just look into his eyes. I will lend myself to be a docile instrument under his guidance.”

“I am grateful to you. I have conducted many operas in my theater. Those of my friend Mozart, preferably.”

“Your friend…?”

“Now you must excuse me. We will see each other tomorrow morning, for rehearsals.”

“And the conductor? We have been told that it will perhaps be Claudio Abbadao… or Jordi Savall!”

“Neither. It will be a surprise.”

"What a mysterious guy."

"But fascinating, my little Berthe! I saw how you looked at him, too!"

"A surprise! But who does he think he is? Conceited amateur! 'My friend Mozart…' bah!"

"Maybe he's an amateur, but he looks like a genius, and he's certainly rich! 'My theatre,' he said!"

"Well, my room looks comfortable to me. I'm going to visit Prague tomorrow, rehearsals permitting. Goodnight, everyone!"

"See you later…"

(seeing flowers on the table) "Look, Berthe! Irises! How did he know? That man is an angel!"

"I hope no clause in the contract prohibits a relationship between the protagonist and the impresario! As your employer, Berthe, I forbid you to set your eyes on Caleb Lost! That Georges, the operetta singer, will be great for you."

"Sure, there are many mysteries in this story. Well, let's enjoy them, then! Life is so monotonous sometimes.

"You are absolutely right, Monsieur Morin!"

"please, call me Georges, Miss Ricci! I'm not much older than you!"

"OK, then call me Valentina."

"I'm also sure that this adventure will be our luck. it is said that television will film the evening... and that ex-president Havel and other heads of state will be in the audience! I'm not sleepy; I know that Prague is beautiful at night. Do you want to celebrate?"

"Maybe another time, Georges. And by the way, you can also also talk to me casually. I'm not as haughty as Greta Wundermann, but don't try it with me! Good night."

"Rats! She always remains 'Berthe, the pretty assistant to Wundermann!' However, it is not a given that the night ends in solitude!”

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