First Intermezzo

Following a sprightly overture, Uberto is seen dressing in preparation for venturing out. He complains vigorously that he has already waited three hours for his chocolate, but that no sign of it has yet appeared. His frustration is vented in a casually drawn aria, following which he aims his reproofs at his maid, Serpina. She, in turn, responds testily and decisively to Uberto before redirecting her attention to Vespone, a silent servant who quickly scurries off on his assigned tasks. Turning back to Uberto, Serpina informs him that it is now entirely too late for him to go out and proceeds to chastise him ("Stizzoso, mio Stizzoso"). By now vexed beyond endurance, Uberto summons Vespone and insists that he immediately undertake finding his master a wife. Serpina is quick to interject: "A wonderful idea—take me!" In the duet that brings the first intermezzo to a close, Uberto mutters his decision to be rid of Serpina entirely even while he admits the likelihood that he has already been overwhelmed by her domination. Serpina, all the while, rattles off a catalog of her qualifications.

Second Intermezzo

Serpina plots to cause Uberto to marry her, whether it be by means of outmaneuvering him, scaring him, or wheedling him. She enlists Vespone. Uberto is informed that she herself has found a mate; her intended is a soldier whose name is Captain Tempest. After describing his intemperate and uncompromising nature, she sings a pensive aria ("A Serpina penserete"), trusting that she will not be forgotten when she is no longer in the household. A sympathetic look from Uberto restores Serpina's minx-like demeanor and, as her master takes her hand, she has reason to believe that her approach is beginning to bear fruit. Thoroughly confused, Uberto questions whether he feels pity for Serpina, or might even be in love with her. His aria ("Son imbrogliato io già") perfectly mirrors his quandary in strains both comic and contemplative. Clear enough, however, is that Uberto is not quite the same man.

Meanwhile, Serpina returns to the chamber with a military man, her "Captain," who appears exceedingly edgy, not to say explosive. It is, of course, Vespone, who maintains his silence amidst his repertory of threatening gestures. Uberto recoils before the Captain's frightening appearance and aggressive deportment, looking anxiously from the stranger to Serpina and back again. Serpina informs him that the Captain insists that she be provided with a large dowry. Should she not be given that, the Captain will not accept her as a wife, but will demand that Uberto instead take her as his wife. With no such dowry forthcoming, Uberto finds himself engaged to his maid. This process completed, Vespone, still speaking not a word, removes his disguise. Uberto protests the deception, but to no avail. He has not only been outwitted, but also made to see that he is truly in love with Serpina. As the curtain falls, all is in readiness for the marriage that will make Serpina mistress of the household.

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