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Discussion utilisateur:Zyephyrus/Mars 2014/Marion de Lorme (en)
Marion de Lorme.
Viscount de Bouchavannes, }
Chevalier de Rochebaron, }
Count de Villac, }
Chevalier de Montpesat, }
Duke de Beaupréau.
Taillebras, }
Councilor of the Great Chamber. Town Crier.
Captain. A Jailer.
A Registrar. The Executioner.
First Workman. Second Workman.
Third Workman. A Lackey.
Dame Rose.
Provincial Comedians, Guards, Populace, Nobles, Pages. 1638.
THE MEETING Scene.—Blois. A bed-chamber. A window opening on a balcony at the back. To the right, a table with a lamp, and an armchair. To the left a door, covered by a portière of tapestry. In the background a bed
Scène I
Marion de Lorme, in a very elegant wrapper, sitting beside the table, embroidering. Marquis de Saverny, very young man, blonde, without mustache, dressed in the latest fashion of 1638
Let us be reconciled, my sweet Marie!
Not such close reconciliation, please!
Just one kiss!
What a rage! Your mouth Had sweeter manners, not so long ago!
Ah, you forget!
No, I remember, dear.
The bore! the tiresome creature!
Speak, fair one! What does this swift, unkind departure mean? While all are seeking you at Place Royale, Why do you hide yourself at Blois? Traitress, What have you done here all these two long months?
I do what pleases me, and what I wish Is right. I'm free, my lord!
Free! Yes. But those Whose hearts you've stolen, are they also free? I? Gondi, who omitted half his Mass The other day, because he had a duel Upon his hands for you? Nesmond, D'Arquien, The two Caussades, Pressigny, whom your flight Has left so wretched, so morose, even Their wives wish you were back in Paris, that They might have gayer husbands!
Is still in love.
Adores you yet.
And Pons?
Oh, as for him, he hates you!
Proof He is the only one who loves me! Well, The President? [Laughing.] The old man! What's his name?
[Laughing more heartily. Leloup!
He's waiting for you, and meanwhile He keeps your portrait and sings odes to it.
He's loved me two years now, in effigy.
He'd much prefer to burn you. Tell me how You keep away from such dear friends.
That's just The reason, Marquis; to be frank with you, Those brilliant follies which seduced my youth Have given me much more misery than joy. In a retreat, a convent cell, perhaps, I want to try to expiate my life.
I'll wager there's a love-tale behind that.
You dare to think—
That never a nun's veil Surmounted eyes so full of earthly fire. It could not be. You love some poor provincial! For shame! To end a fine romance with such A page!
It isn't true!
Let's make a wager!
Dame Rose, what time is it?
Almost midnight!
That is a most ingenious way Of saying, "Time to go."
I live retired, Receiving no one, and unknown to all. Besides, 'tis dangerous to be out late: The street is lonely, full of robbers.
Well, They can rob me.
And oftentimes they kill!
Good! they can kill me.
You are divine! But I'll not stir one foot before I know Who this gay shepherd is, who's routed us!
There's no one!
I will be discreet. We courtiers, Whom people think so mad, so curious And spiteful, are maligned. We gossip, but We never talk! You're silent? [Sits down.] Then I'll stay!
What does it matter? Well, it's true! I love! I'm waiting for him!
That's the way to talk! That's right! Where is it you expect him?
Now! [She goes to the balcony and listens. Hark! that is he perhaps. [Coming back.] 'Tis not. Now are you satisfied?
Not quite!
Please go!
I want to know his name, this proud gallant, For whose reception I am thus dismissed.
Didier is all the name I know for him. Marie is all the name he knows for me.
Is't true?
Yes, true!
This is a pastoral, And no mistake. 'Tis Racan, pure! To enter, I have no doubt he scales the wall.
Perhaps. Please go! [Aside.] He wearies me to death!
Of course He's noble.
I don't know.
What? [To Marion, who is gently pushing him toward the door. I am going! [Coming back. Just one word more! I had forgotten. Look! [He draws a book out of his pocket and gives it to Marion. An author who is not a fool, did this. It's making a great stir.
"Love's Garland"—ah! "To Marion de Lorme."
They talk of nothing But this in Paris. That book and "The Cid" Are the successful efforts of the day.
It's very civil of you; now, good-night!
What is the use of fame? Alack-a-day! To come to Blois and love a rustic! Bah!
Take care of the Marquis, and show him out!
Ah, Marion, you've degenerated! [He goes out.
Scène II
Go— Go quickly! Oh, I feared lest Didier— [Midnight strikes. Hark! It's striking midnight! Didier should be here! [She goes to the balcony and looks into the street. No one! [She comes back and sits down impatiently. Late! To be late—so soon!
[A young man appears behind the balustrade of the balcony, jumps over it lightly, enters, places his cloak and sword on the armchair. Costume of the day: all black: boots. He takes one step forward, pauses and contemplates Marion, sitting with her eyes cast down. At last! [Reproachfully. To let me count the hour alone!
I feared To enter!
Down there, outside the wall, I was o'ercome with pity. Pity? yes, For you! I, poor, accursed, unfortunate, Stood there a long time thinking, ere I came! "Up there an angel waits," I thought, "in virgin grace, Untouched by sin—a being chaste and fair, To whose sweet face shining on life's pathway Each passer-by should bend his knees and pray. I, who am but a vagrant 'mongst the crowd, Why should I seek to stir that placid stream? Why should I pluck that lily? With the breath Of human passion, why should I consent To cloud the azure of that radiant soul? Since in her loyalty she trusts to me, Since virtue shields her with its sanctity, Have I a right to take her gift of love, To bring my storms into her perfect day?"
This is theology, it seems to me! I wonder if he is a Huguenot?
But when your tender voice fell on my ear, I wrestled with my doubts no more—I came.
Oh, then you heard me speaking—that is strange!
Yes; with another person.
With Dame Rose! She talks just like a man, don't you think so? Such a strong voice! Ah, well, since you are here I am no longer angry! Come, sit down. [Indicating a place at her side. Sit here!
No! at your feet. [He sits on a stool at Marion's feet and looks at her for some moments in complete silence. Hear me, Marie! I have no name but Didier—never knew My father nor my mother. I was left, A baby, on the threshold of a church. A woman, old, belonging to the people, Preserved me, was my mother and my nurse. She brought me up a Christian, then she died And left me all she had—nine hundred francs A year, on which I live. To be alone At twenty is a sad and bitter thing! I traveled—saw mankind: I learned to hate A few and to despise the rest. For on This tarnished mirror we call human life, I saw nothing but pride and misery And pain; so that, although I'm young, I'm old, And am as weary of the world as are The men who leave it. Never touched a thing That did not tear and lacerate my soul! Although the world was bad, I found men worse. Thus I have lived; alone and poor and sad, Until you came, and you have set things right. I hardly know you. At the corner of A Paris street you first appeared to me. Then afterward I met you, and I thought Your eyes were sweet, your speech was beautiful! I was afraid of loving you, and fled! But destiny is strange: I found you here, I find you everywhere, as if you were My guardian angel. So at last, my love Grew powerful, resistless, and I felt I must talk with you. You were willing. Now They're at your service, both my heart and life. I will do anything that you wish done. If there is any man or anything That troubles you, or you have any whim And somebody must die to satisfy it— Must die, and make no sign—and feel 'twas worth Death any time to see you smile; if you Need such a man, speak, lady: I am here!
You've a strange nature, but I love you so!
You love me! Ah, take care! One dare not say Such words in any careless way! Love me? Oh, do you know what loving means? What 'tis To feel love take possession of our blood, Become our daily breath? To feel this thing Which long has smoldered burst to flame, and rise A great, majestic, purifying fire? To feel it burn up clean within our hearts The refuse other passions have left there? This love, hopeless indeed, but limitless, Which outlives all things, even happiness— Is this the kind of love you mean?
You do not know it, but I love you so! From that first time I saw you, my dark life Was shot with sunlight streaming from your eyes; Since then all's different. To me you seem Some wonderful creation, not of earth. My life, in whose dark gloom I groaned so long, Grows almost beautiful when you are by. For 'til you came, I'd wandered, suffered, wept; I'd struggled, fallen—but I had not loved.
Poor Didier!
Speak, Marie!
Well, then, I do. I love with just this love—love you as much And maybe more than you love me! It was Not destiny that brought me here. 'Twas I Who came, who followed you, and I am yours!
Oh, do not cheat me! Give me truth, Marie! If to my ardent love your love responds, The world holds no possession rich as mine! My whole life, kneeling at your feet, will be One sigh of speechless, blinding ecstasy. But do not cheat me!
Do you want a proof Of love, my Didier?
Then speak!
You are— Quite free?
Free? Yes!
Then take me for a brother, For a protector—be my wife?
His wife! Ah, why am I not worthy?
You consent?
Don't say it, please—I understand! An orphan, without fortune! What a fool! Give back my pain, my gloom, my solitude! Farewell! [He starts to go; Marion holds him back.
Didier, what are you saying? [She bursts into tears.
True! But why this hesitation? [Going back to her. Can't you feel The ecstasy of being, each to each, a world, A country, heaven; in some deserted spot To hide a happiness kings could not buy.
It would be heaven!
Will you have it? Come!
[Aside.] Accursed woman! [Aloud.] No, it cannot be. [She tears herself from out his arms, and falls on the armchair.
The offer was not generous, I know. You've answered me. I'll speak of it no more! Good-by!
Alack, the day I pleased him! [Aloud.] Stay! I'll tell you. You have hurt me to the soul. I will explain—
What were you reading, madame, When I came? [Takes the book from the table and reads. "To Marion de Lorme. Love's Garland!" Yes, the beauty of the day! [Throwing the book violently to the floor. Vile creature! a dishonor to her sex!
What are you doing with such books? How came they here?
They came by chance.
Do you— You who have eyes so pure, a brow so chaste— Do you know what she is—this woman? Well, She's beautiful in body, and deformed In soul! A Phryne, selling everywhere, To every man, her love, which is an insult, An infamy!
My God! [A noise of footsteps, a clashing of swords outside, and cries.
Help! Murder! Help!
What noise is that out there upon the square? [Cries continue.
Help! Murder! Help!
They're killing some one! Ha! [He takes his sword and step's over the balustrade. Marion rises, runs to him and tries to hold him back by his cloak.
Don't, Didier, if you love me! They'll kill you! Don't go!
He is the one they're going to kill! Poor man! [Outside, to combatants. Stand off! Hold firmly, sir, and push! [Clashing of swords. There, wretch! [Noise of swords, voices, and footsteps.
Just Heaven! They are six 'gainst two!
This man—he is the devil!
[The clashing of swords subsides little by little, then entirely ceases. The sounds of footsteps become indistinct. Didier reappears scaling the balcony.
You are safe; Now go your way!
Not 'til I've grasped your hand— Not 'til I've thanked you, if you please!
Pass on! I will consider myself thanked.
Not so! I mean to thank you. [Scaling balcony.
Can't you speak from there And say "I thank you" without coming up?
Scène III
Upon my soul! 'Tis a strange chivalry To save my life and push me from the door! The door—that is to say, the window! No, They shall not say one of my family Was bravely rescued by a nobleman And did not in return say "Marquis—" Pray, What is your name?
Didier—of what?
Didier, of nothing! People kill you, and I help you—that is all! Now go!
Indeed! That's your way, is it? Why not have let Those traitors kill me? 'Twould have pleased me more. For without you I'd be a dead man now. Six thieves against me! Dead! Of course! What else? Six daggers against one thin sword— [Perceiving Marion, who has been trying to avoid him. Oh, ho! You're not alone! At last I understand! I'm robbing you of pleasure. Pardon me! [Aside.] I'd like to see the lady! [Approaches Marion, who is trembling: he recognizes her. It is you! [Indicating Didier. Then he's the one!
Hush! You will ruin all!
I love for the first time!
'Sdeath! That man is looking at her with bold eyes. [He overturns the lamp with a blow.
You put the lamp out, sir?
It would be wise For us to leave together, and at once.
So be it, then! I follow you! [To Marion, whom he salutes profoundly. Madame, Farewell!
What a rare coxcomb! [Aloud to Saverny.] Come, sir, come!
You're brusk, but I'm in debt to you for life. If ever you should need fraternal friendship, Count upon me, Marquis de Saverny, Paris, Hôtel de Nesle.
Enough, sir! Come! [Aside.] To see her thus examined by a fool! [They go out by the balcony. The voice of Didier is heard outside. Your road lies that way. Mine lies here!
Scène IV
Dame Rose! [Dame Rose appears. Marion points to the window. Go shut it! [Dame Rose, having shut the window, turns and sees Marion wiping away a tear.
She is weeping! [Aloud.] It is time To sleep, madame!
Yes, time for you—you people. [Undoing her hair. Come, help me to undress!
The gentleman To-night was pleasant. Is he rich?
Not rich.
But gallant.
No, nor gallant. [Turning to Dame Rose. He did not So much as kiss my hand!
What use is he?
I love him!
THE ENCOUNTER Scene.—Blois. The door of a public-house. A square. In the background the city of Blois is visible in the form of an amphitheater, also the towers of St. Nicholas upon the hill, which is covered with houses
Scène I
They are seated at tables in front of the door: some are smoking, the others are throwing dice and drinking. Afterward Chevalier de Montpesat, Count de Villac; afterward L'Angely; afterward The Town-Crier and The Populace
Gassé! [They shake hands. You are come to join The regiment at Blois: our compliments Upon your burial. [Examining his clothes. Ah!
It is the style— This orange with blue ribbons. [Folding his arms and curling his mustache. You must know That Blois is forty miles from Paris!
Yes, It's China!
That makes womankind rebel: To follow us they must exile themselves.
You come from Paris?
Is there any news?
No, nothing. Corneille still upsets all heads. Guiche has obtained the order; Ast is duke. Of trifles, plenty—thirty Huguenots Were hung; a quantity of duels. On The third, D'Angennes fought Arquien on account Of wearing point of Genoa; the tenth, Lavardie had a rendezvous with Pons, Because he'd taken Sourdis' wife from him. Sourdis and D'Ailly met about a creature In the theater Mondori. On the ninth, Lachâtre fought with Nogent because he wrote Three rhymes of Colletet's badly; Margaillan With Gorde, about the time of day; D'Humière With Gondi on the way to walk in church; And all the Brissacs 'gainst all the Soubises For some bet on a horse against a dog. Then Caussade and Latournelle fought for nothing— Merely for fun: Caussade killed Latournelle.
Gay Paris! Duels have begun again.
It is the fashion!
Feasts and love and fighting! There is the only place to live! [Yawning.] All one Can do here is to die of weariness. [To Gassé.] You say Caussade killed Latournelle?
He did, With a good gash! [Examining Rochebaron's sleeves. What's that you wear, my friend? Those trimmings are not fashionable now. What! cords and buttons? Nothing could be worse. You must have bows and ribbons.
Pray repeat The list of duels. How about the King? What does he say?
The Cardinal's enraged And means to stop it.
Any news from camp?
I think we captured Figuère by surprise— Or else we lost it. [Reflecting.] Yes, that's it. 'Tis lost! They took it from us.
Ah! What said the King?
The Cardinal is most dissatisfied.
How is the Court? I hope the King is well.
Alas! the Cardinal has fever and The gout, and goes out only in a litter.
Queer! We talk King, you answer Cardinal!
It is the fashion!
So there's nothing new!
Did I say so? There's been a miracle, A prodigy, which has amazed all Paris For two months past; the flight, the disappearance—
Go on! Of whom?
Of Marion de Lorme, The fairest of the fair!
Here's news for you. She's here!
At Blois?
What! she? In this place? Oh, you must be jesting, sir! Fair Marion, who sets the fashions! Bah! This Blois is the antipodes of Paris. Observe! How ugly, old, ungainly, 'tis! Even those towers— [Indicating the towers of St. Nicholas. Uncouth and countrified!
That's true.
Won't you believe Saverny when He says he saw her, hidden somewhere with A lover, and this lover saved his life When thieves attacked him in the street at night?— Good thieves, who took his purse for charity, And just desired his watch to know the time.
You tell me wonders!
Are you sure of it?
As sure as that I have six silver bezants Upon a field of azure. Saverny Has no desire, at present, but to find This man.
He ought to find him at her house.
She's changed her name and lodging, and all trace Of her is lost. [Marion and Didier cross the back of the stage slowly without being noticed by the talkers; they enter a small door in one of the houses on the side.
To have to come to Blois To find our Marion, a provincial! [Enter Count de Villac and Chevalier de Montpesat, disputing loudly.
No! I tell you no!
And I—I tell you, yes!
Corneille is bad!
To treat Corneille like that— The author of "The Cid" and of "Melite."
"Melite"? Well, I will grant you that is good; But he degenerated after that, As they all do. I'll do the best I can To satisfy you: talk about "Melite," "The Gallery of the Palace," but "The Cid!" What is it, pray?
You are conservative.
"The Cid" is good!
I tell you it is bad! Your "Cid"—why Scudéry can crush it with A touch! Look at the style! It deals with things Extraordinary; has a vulgar tone; Describes things plainly by their common names; Besides, it is obscene, against the law! "The Cid" has not the right to wed Chimène! Now have you read Pyramus, Bradamante? When Corneille writes such tragedies, I'll read!
"The Great and Last Soliman" of Mairet, You must read that: that is fine tragedy! But for your "Cid."
What self-conceit he has! Does he not think he equals Boisrobert, Mairet, Gombault, Serisay, Chapelain, Bautru, Desmarets, Malleville, Faret, Cherisy, Gomberville, Colletet, Giry, Duryer—indeed, all the Academy?
Then the gentleman deigns to create! Create! Faith! after Garnier, Theophile, And Hardy! Oh, the coxcomb! To create! An easy thing! As if the famous minds Had left behind them any unused thing. On that point Chapelain rebukes him well!
Corneille's a peasant!
Yet, Monsieur Godeau, Bishop of Grasse, says he's a man of wit.
Much wit!
If he would write some other way— Would follow Aristotle and good style.
Come, gentlemen, make peace. One thing is sure, Corneille is now the fashion: takes the place Of Garnier, just as in our day felt hats Have replaced velvet mortiers.
For Corneille I am, and for felt hats!
You are too rash! [To Villac.] Garnier is very fine. I'm neutral; but Corneille has also his good points.
Agreed! He is a witty fellow and I like him!
He has no nobility!
A name so commonplace offends the ear.
A family of petty lawyers, who Have gnawed at ducats 'til they obtained sous. [L'Angely enters, seats himself at a table alone, and in silence. He is dressed in black velvet with gold trimming.
Well, if the public like his rhapsodies The day of tragic-comedy is past. I swear to you the theater is doomed. It is because this Richelieu—
Say, lordship, Or else speak lower.
Hell take this eminence! Is't not enough to manage everything? To rule our soldiers, finances, and us, Without controlling our poor language too?
Down with this Richelieu, who flatters, kills: Man of the red hand and the scarlet robe!
Of what use is the King?
In darkness, we— That is the people—march: eyes on a torch. He is the torch: the King's the lantern which In its bright glass protects the flame from wind.
Oh, could our swords blow such a wind some day As to extinguish this devouring fire!
If every one had the same mind as I!
We would unite— [To Bouchavannes.] What do you think, Viscount?
We'd give him one perfidious, useful blow!
Conspiring! Young men! Think of Marillac! [All shudder: turn away, and are silent with terror; all fix their eyes on L'Angely, who silently resumes his seat.
villac. (taking Montpesat aside). My lord, when we were talking of Corneille, You spoke in tones that irritated me. In my turn I would like to say two words To you—
With sword—
Or with pistol?
Let's go and find some corner in the town.
A duel, sirs? Remember Boutteville. [New consternation among the young men. Villac and Montpesat separate, keeping their eyes fixed on L'Angely.
Who is this man in black who frightens us?
I'm L'Angely. I'm jester to the King.
Then it's no wonder that the King is sad.
Great fun he makes, this rabid cardinalist!
Be careful, gentlemen! This minister Is mighty. A great mower, he! He makes Great seas of blood, and then he covers them With his red cloak and nothing more is said. [Silence.
Good faith!
I'm blessed if I shall stir!
Beside This jester Pluto was a funny man! [A crowd of people enter from the streets and houses, and spread over the Square. In the center appears The Town-Crier on horseback, with four Town-servants in livery, one of whom blows the trumpet, while the other beats the drum.
What are these people doing? Ah, the crier! Well, paternosters are in order now!
Which one of you shows off the other, friend?
I hope our packs of cards are still complete. [Indicating the four Servants in livery. It looks as though these knaves were stolen thence.
Peace, citizens!
He has a wicked look. His voice wears out his nose more than his mouth!
"Ordinance: Louis, by the Grace of God—"
Cloak fleur-de-lis concealing Richelieu!
"King of France and of Navarre—"
A fine name, which no minister e'er hoards.
"Know all men by these presents, we greet you! [He salutes assembly. Having considered that all kings desired And have tried to abolish dueling, But yet, in spite of edicts signed by them, The evil has increased in great degree, We ordain and decree that from this time All duelists who rob us of our subjects, Whether but one of them or both survive, Be brought for punishment unto our court, And commoner or noble shall be hanged. In order to give force to this edict We here renounce our right of pardon for This crime. It is our gracious pleasure."— Signed, Louis; and lower—Richelieu. [Indignation among the nobles.
What's this? We are to hang up like Barabbas!
We? Tell me the name of any place which holds A rope by which to hang a nobleman!
"We, provost, that all men may know these facts, Command this edict to be hung up on The Square." [The two Servants attach a great placard to an iron gallows protruding from the wall on the right.
'Tis the edict they ought to hang! Well done!
Yes, Count; while waiting for the head Which shall defy it. [The Town-Crier exits; the crowd retires. Saverny enters. It begins to grow dark.
Scène II
Cousin Saverny, I hope you've found the man who rescued you.
No; I have searched the city through in vain. The robbers, the young man, and Marion— They have all faded from me like a dream.
You must have seen him when he brought you back, Like a good Christian, from those infidels.
The first thing that he did was to throw down The lamp.
That's strange!
You'd recognize him if You met him?
No; I didn't see his face.
What is his name?
That's no man's name! That is a bourgeois name.
It doesn't matter. Didier is this man's name. There are great men Who have been conquerors and bear grand names, But they've no greater hearts than this man had. I had six robbers! He had Marion! He left her, and saved me. My debt's immense! This debt I mean to pay. I tell you all: I'll pay it with the last drop of my blood!
Since when do you pay debts?
I've always paid Those debts which can be paid with blood. Blood is the only change I carry, sir! [It is quite dark; the windows in the city are lighted one by one; a lamplighter enters and lights a street-lamp above the edict and goes out. The little door through which Marion and Didier disappeared is re-opened. Didier comes forth dreamily, walking slowly, his arms folded.
Scène III
Marquis de Saverny! I would like much To see that fool who looked at her so hard. I have him on my mind.
Ah, That is my man! [He advances slowly, his eyes fixed on the noblemen, and sits down at a table placed under the street-lamp, which lights up the edict. L'Angely, motionless and silent, is a few steps distant.
bouchavannes (to Saverny, who turns around). You know about the edict?
Which one?
Commanding us to give up duels.
It is most wise.
Hanging's the penalty.
You must be jesting. Commoners are hanged, Not nobles.
Read it for yourself. It's there, Upon the wall.
That sallow face can read For me. [To Didier, elevating his voice. Ho! man there with the cloak! My friend! Good fellow! [To Brichanteau.] Brichanteau, he must be deaf.
You spoke to me?
I did! In fair return, Read that placard which hangs above your head.
You—if you can spell the alphabet.
It is the edict threatening duelists With gallows, be they nobles or plebeians.
No, you mistake, my friend. You ought to know A nobleman was never born to hang, And in this world, where we claim all our rights, Plebeians are the gallows' only prey. [To the noblemen. These commoners are rude. [To Didier, with malice.] You don't read well; Perhaps you are near-sighted. Lift your hat, 'Twill give you more light. Take it off.
Beware! You have insulted me! I've read for you; I claim my recompense! I'll have it, too! I want your blood, I want your head, Marquis!
We must be fitted to our station, sir. I judge him commoner, he scents marquis In me.
Marquis and commoner can fight. What do you say to mixing up our blood?
You go too fast, and fighting is not all. I am Gaspard, Marquis de Saverny.
What does that matter?
Here my seconds are! The Count de Gassé, noble family, And Count de Villac, family La Teuillade, From which house comes the Marquis d'Aubusson. Are you of noble blood?
What matters that? I am a foundling left at a church door. I have no name; but in its place, I've blood, To give you in exchange for yours!
That, sir, Is not enough; but as a foundling, you May claim the right, because you might be noble. It is a better thing to lift a vassal Than to degrade a peer. You may command me! Choose your hour, sir.
Agreed! You're no usurper, that is clear.
A sword!
You have no sword? The devil! that is bad. You might be thought a man of low descent. Will you have mine? [Offers his sword to Didier. Well tempered and obedient! [L'Angely rises, draws his sword and presents it to Didier.
No; for a foolish deed, you'd better take A fool's sword! You are brave! You'll honor it! [Maliciously.] And in return, to bring me luck, pray let Me cut a piece from off the hanging-rope!
I will. [To The Marquis. Now God have mercy on the good!
A duel—excellent!
Where shall we fight?
Beneath the street-lamp.
Gentlemen, you're mad! You cannot see. You'll put your eyes out.
Humph! There's light enough to cut each other's throat.
Well said!
You can see nothing.
That's enough! Each sword is lightning flashing in the dark. Come, Marquis! [Both throw off their cloaks, take off their hats with which they salute each other, throwing them afterward on the ground. Then they draw their swords.
At your service, sir.
Now! Garde! [They cross swords and fence, silently and furiously. Suddenly the small door opens, Marion in a white dress appears.
Scène IV
What is this noise? [Perceiving Didier under the lamp. Didier! [To the combatants.] Stop! [They continue.] Ho! The guard!
Who is this woman?
bouchavannes (running, to Saverny). All is lost! That woman's cry went through the town. I saw the archers' rapiers flash. [The Archers with torches enter.
Seem dead, Or you will be so!
Ah! [Low to Brichanteau, who bends over him. Oh, damn these stones. [Didier, who thinks he has killed him, pauses.
Hold! In the King's name!
We must save the Marquis. He's a dead man if he is caught. [The noblemen surround Saverny.
Zounds, sirs! To fight a duel 'neath the very light Of the edict is bold indeed! [To Didier.] Give up Your sword. [The Archers seize Didier, who stands apart, and disarm him. The Captain indicates Saverny stretched upon the ground and surrounded by the noblemen. That other man with dull eyes, who Is he? What is his name?
His name's Gaspard, Marquis de Saverny, and he is dead.
Dead, is he? Then his trouble's over. Good! This dead man's worth more than the other.
The whole affair rests now with you, sir. Come! [The Archers lead Didier off on one side, the noblemen carry Saverny off on the other.
Forget me, Marion. Good-by! [They exit.
Scène V
Didier! What do you mean? Good-by? Why this good-by? Wherefore forget you? [The Soldiers push her off; she approaches L'Angely with anguish. Is he lost for this? What did he do? What will they do to him?
Read this!
My God! Just God! Condemned to death! They've taken him away. To kill him! Oh, I brought this ruin on him with my cries! I called for help, but my unhappy voice Found death in the dark streets and brought her here. Impossible! A duel is no crime! [To L'Angely. They'll not kill him for that?
I think they will.
He can escape!
The prison walls are high!
I've brought this crime upon him with my sins. God strikes him for my sake! My Didier! love! [To L'Angely.] Nothing on earth seemed good enough for him! A prison cell—my God! Death! Torture too!
Perhaps! It all depends—
I'll find the King! He has a royal heart; he pardons.
Yes, The King does, not the Cardinal.
Then, what— What can I do?
A capital offense, Nothing can save him from the fatal rope.
Oh, grief! [To L'Angely.] You freeze my blood, sir. Who are you?
I'm the King's jester!
Oh, my Didier, love, I'm lost, unworthy; but what God can do With a weak woman's hands, I'll show to you. Go on, my love; I follow! [She goes out on the side from which Didier left.
God knows where! [Picking up the sword which Didier left on the ground. Among all these, who'd think I was the fool? [He goes out.
THE COMEDY Scene.—The Castle of Nangis. A park in the style of Henry IV. In the background on an elevation, the Castle of Nangis, part new, part old, is visible. The old, a castle-keep with arches and turrets: the new, a large brick house with corners of wrought stone, and pointed roof. The large door of the castle-keep is hung with black: from afar one distinguishes a coat-of-arms—that of the families of Nangis and of Saverny
Scène I
M. DE LAFFEMAS, undress costume of a magistrate of the period. Marquis de Saverny, disguised as an officer of the Regiment of Anjou; with black mustache and imperial, and a plaster on the eye
Then you were present, sir, at the attack?
I was his comrade: had that honor, sir! But he is dead!
The Marquis de Saverny?
Yes, from a thrust in tierce, which burst the doublet, Then carved its cruel way between the ribs Through to the chest and to the liver, which, As you well know, makes blood. The wound was fearful. 'Twas horrible to see!
He died at once?
Almost. His agony was short. I watched The spasm follow frenzy; tetanos Then came, and after opisthotonos There followed improstathonos.
The deuce!
So that I calculate 'tis false to say The blood passes the jugular. Pequet And learned men should be condemned when they Dissect live dogs to study 'bout the lungs.
The poor marquis is dead.
A thrust is fatal.
You are a doctor, sir, of medicine?
You have studied it?
Somewhat. In Aristotle.
You can talk it well!
Faith! I've a most malicious sort of heart. I like destruction; find delight in evil; I love to kill! So that I thought I'd be A soldier or a doctor, sir, at twenty. But I hesitated long, and finally I chose the sword. It's not so sure, but twice As quick. There was a time, I will confess, I longed to be a poet or an actor, Or an exhibitor of bears—but then, I like dinner and supper every day. A plague upon the poetry and bears!
With this hope in your mind you studied verse?
A little bit, in Aristotle. Yes—
The Marquis knew you?
He knew me as well As a lieutenant knows an upstart soldier. I belonged to Monsieur de Caussade first, Who gave me to the Marquis' colonel. Poor The present, but we do the best we can! They made me officer—I'm worth as much As any, and I wear a black mustache. That is my history.
They sent you here To notify the uncle?
Yes; I came With Brichanteau, the cousin, and the corpse. He will be buried here—where, if he'd lived, He would have had his wedding!
Tell me how The old Marquis de Nangis bore the news.
With calmness, without tears.
He loved him though?
As much as we love life. Having no children Of his own he had but this one passion— His nephew, whom he dearly loved, although They had not seen each other for five years. [In the background, the old Marquis de Nangis passes; white hair, pale countenance, arms folded across his breast, dress of the day of Henry IV.: deep mourning; the star and the ribbon of the order of the Holy Ghost. He walks slowly; nine guards in three rows follow; they are dressed in mourning, their halberds on their right shoulder, their muskets on their left; they keep within a short distance, stopping when he stops, and continuing when he continues.
Poor man! [He goes to the back and follows The Marquis with his eyes.
My good old uncle! [Brichanteau enters and goes to Saverny.
Scène II
Ah! two words! [Laughing.] He's looking pretty well for a dead man!
Why do you make me grieve him, Brichanteau? I think we might explain it to him now. Oh, let me try.
No; God forbid, my friend! His grief must be sincere; he must weep much. His woe is one good half of your disguise.
Poor uncle!
He will find it out ere long.
If sorrow has not killed him, then joy will. These shocks are dangerous to such old men.
It must be done!
I cannot bear to hear Him laugh so bitterly, then weep; then keep So still! I hate to see him kiss that coffin.
Yes—a fine coffin with no corpse in it!
But I am dead and bleeding in his heart. The corpse lies there.
Alas, the poor old man! His eyes show plainly how he's suffering!
Who is that surly-looking man in black?
Some friend who's living at the castle?
Crows Are also black and love the smell of death. Keep silence more than ever. 'Tis a face That's treacherous and evil; it would make A madman prudent. [The Marquis de Nangis re-enters; he is still absorbed in a deep reverie. He walks slowly, does not appear to notice any one, and seats himself upon a bank of turf.
Scène III
Marquis, we've lost much. He was a rare man; would have comforted Your old age. I mingle my tears with yours. Young, handsome, good, naught more could be desired; Obeying God, respecting women, strong; Just in his actions, sensible in speech, A perfect nobleman, whom all revere! To die so young! Most cruel fate! Alas! [The Marquis lets his head fall on his hands.
The devil take this funeral discourse! These praises but augment the old man's grief. Console him, you; Show him the other side.
You are mistaken, sir. I was in the Same grade. A bad comrade, this Saverny— A shiftless fellow, growing worse each day. Courageous! Every man is brave at twenty; His death is nothing much to boast about.
A duel! Surely, that is no great crime. [Banteringly to Brichanteau, pointing to his sword. You are an officer?
A magistrate?
Go on!
He was capricious, thankless, and A liar: not worth any real regret. He went to church, but just to ogle girls. He was a gallant, a mere libertine, A fool!
Good! good!
Intractable and stubborn; Rude to his officers. As to good looks, He had lost his; he limped, had a large wen Upon his eye; from blonde had turned to red, And from round-shouldered had become hump-backed.
He gambled—every one knows that. He would have staked his soul on dice. I'll wager That cards had eaten up his property. His fortune galloped faster every night.
Enough! Good God! Your consolation is Too strong.
To speak so ill of a dead friend! Unpardonable!
Ask this gentleman!
Oh, no; I beg to be excused!
My lord, We'll comfort you. We have his murderer, And we will hang him. We have kept him safe. His end is sure. [To Brichanteau and Saverny. But can one understand The Marquis? There are duels, we all know, That cannot be avoided, but to fight With any one named Didier—
What? Didier? [The old Marquis, who has remained silent and motionless during all this scene, rises and goes out slowly on the side opposite where he came in. His guards follow him.
In truth, his sorrow deeply touches me.
My lord!
Why can't you leave your master quiet?
It is the burial of the young marquis! What is the hour?
You'll know it by-and-by.
A few comedians have arrived here from The city; they beg shelter for the night.
The time's ill-chosen for comedians, but The law of hospitality holds good. Give them this barn. [Indicating a barn on the left.
A letter! 'Tis important! [Reading.] For a Monsieur de Laffemas.
'Tis I! Give it to me!
Saverny, let us go! Come and arrange things for your funeral! [Pulling him by the sleeve. What is it? Are you dreaming?
Oh, Didier! [They go out.
Scène IV
The seal of State! The great seal of red wax! Come! this is business. Let me know at once! [Reading.] "Sir Criminal Lieutenant: We make known To you that Didier, the assassin of The late Marquis Gaspard, has fled." My God! That is unfortunate! "A woman is With him, called Marion de Lorme. We beg You to return as soon as possible." Quick! Get me horses! I, who felt so sure! Another matter spoiled for want of sense. Outrageous! Of the two, not one! One, dead! Escaped, the other! I will catch him, though! [He exits. Enter a troupe of strolling actors, men, women and children in character costumes. Among them are Marion and Didier, dressed as Spaniards. Didier wears a great felt hat and is covered with a cloak.
Scène V
This is your lodging. You're on the estate Of the Marquis de Nangis. Behave well, Try to be quiet, for some one is dead. The burial is to-morrow. Above all, Don't mix your songs with the funereal chants Which will be sung for him throughout the night.
We'll make less noise than do your hunting-dogs Who bark around the legs of all who pass!
Dogs are not actors, my good friend.
Be still! You'll cause us to sleep in the open air! [Lackey exits.
Come! let us talk. Now you belong to us. Why Monsieur fled with Madame on behind, If you are man and wife or lovers only, Escaping justice, or black sorcerers Who held Madame a prisoner, perhaps— Is not my business. What I want to know Is what you'll act. Chimènes are best for you, Black eyes. [Marion makes a courtesy.
To hear that mountebank speak thus!
For you: if you should want a splendid part, We need a bully—a long-leggèd man, Tremendous strides, a thundering voice; and when Orgon is robbed of wife or niece, you kill The Moor and terminate the piece. Great part! High tragedy! 'Twill suit you splendidly.
Just as you please!
Good! Don't say "you" to me! I like "thou"! [With a profound obeisance. Blusterer, hail!
What fools!
Now eat; Then we'll rehearse our parts. [All enter the barn except Marion and Didier.
Scène VI
Is't bad enough? My Marion, have I dragged you low enough? You wished to follow me? My destiny Precipitates itself and crushes you, Bound to its wheel! What are we come to now? I told you so!
Do you reproach me, love?
Oh, may I be accursed! Cursed first by Heaven, Then cursed 'mongst men: cursed throughout all my life; Cursed more than we are now, if a reproach Shall ever leave my lips for you! What matter Though all the earth abandon me, you're mine! You are my savior, refuge, all my hope! Who duped the jailer, filed my chains for me? Who came from heaven to follow me to hell? Who was a captive with the prisoner, An exile with the fugitive? Ah, who, Who else had heart so full of love and wit, Heart to sustain, console, deliver me? Great, feeble woman, have you not saved me From destiny, alas! and my own soul? Had you not pity on my nature, crushed? Have you not loved one whom all others hate?
It is my joy to love you—be your slave.
Leave me your eyes, dear; they enrapture me! God willed, when placing soul within my flesh, A demon and an angel should guide me. Yet he was merciful; his love concealed The demon, but the angel he revealed.
You are my Didier, master, lord of me!
Your husband, am I not?
What joy, When we have left this country far behind, To have you, call you wife as well as love! You will be willing?—answer.
I will be Your sister, and my brother you shall be!
Oh, no! Refuse me not that ecstasy Of knowing, in God's sight, you're mine alone! You're safe to trust my love in everything. The lover keeps you for the husband, pure!
If you knew how things torture me! To hear that actor talk, affront you thus! It is not least among our wretched woes To see you mixed with jugglers such as these, A chaste, exquisite flower 'mid this filth— You, 'mongst these women steeped in infamy!
Be prudent, Didier!
God! I struggled hard Against my anger! He said "thou" to you, When I, your love, your husband, hardly dare For fear of tarnishing that virgin brow—
Be pleasant with them; it means life to you, And me as well.
She's right. She's always right. Although each hour brings us increasing woe, You lavish on me love and joy and youth! How happens it these blessings come to me, When royal kingdoms were small pay for them— To me, who give but anguish in return? Heaven gave you—yes; but hell binds you to me. For us to merit this unequal fate, What good can I have done? What evil you?
My only blessings come from you, my love!
If you say that you think it, but it's wrong! Oh, yes, my star of destiny is bad. I know not whence I come, nor where I go. My whole horizon's dark. Love, hark to me! There's time yet; you can leave me and go back. Let me pursue the gloomy route alone. When all is ended and I'm tired out, The couch that's waiting will be cold—ice-cold, And narrow; there's not room enough for two. Go back!
That couch, dark, and mysterious, I'll share it with you; that at least is mine.
Will you not listen? Can't you understand? You're tempting Providence to cling to me! The years of anguish, love, may be so long Your sweet eyes may grow sightless, just from tears. [Marion lets her head fall on her hands.
I swear I draw the picture none too strong. Your future frightens me. I pity you! Go back!
It were more kind to kill me, Didier, Than to talk thus! [Weeping.] O God!
My darling, hush! So many tears! I'd shed my blood for one. Do what you will! Come, be my destiny, My glory, life, my virtue, and my love! Answer me now. I speak! Sweet, do you hear? [He seats her on a bank of turf.
You've hurt me!
I, who'd gladly die for her!
You made me cry, you cruel man!
My beauty! [Sits on the bank beside her. Just one sweet kiss upon your forehead, pure As is our love! [He kisses her forehead. They look at each other with ecstasy. Yes, look at me! Look thus, Look harder; look until we die of looking!
Dona Chimène is wanted in the barn. [Marion rises hastily from Didier's side. At the same time that Gracieux enters, Saverny comes in; he stands in the background and looks attentively at Marion without seeing Didier, who remains sitting on the bank and is hidden by a bush.
Faith, it is Marion! What brings her here? [Laughing.] Chimène!
Oh, no! stay there, my jealous friend, I want to tease you!
Devil take you!
Hush! Restrain yourself. [Didier re-seats himself; she enters the barn.
What makes her roam the country in this fashion? Can he be the gallant who succored me? Who saved my life? Didier! It is indeed!
I take my leave, sir!
You are going away? [He laughs.
What makes you laugh?
A very silly thing. I'll tell you. Guess whom I have recognized Among those jugglers who have just arrived.
Among those jugglers?
Yes. Marion de Lorme!
Marion de Lorme!
Hein? [He half rises from the bank.
I would like to send That news to Paris. Are you going there?
I am, and I will spread the news, trust me! But are you sure you recognize her?
Sure? Hurrah for France! We know our Marion. [Feeling in his pocket. I think I have her portrait—tender pledge Of love! She had it done by the King's painter. [Giving Laffemas a locket. Look and compare them. [Indicating the barn door. See her, through that door, In Spanish costume, with green petticoat.
'Tis she—Marion de Lorme! [Aside.] I have him now! [To Saverny.] She must have a companion 'mongst these men.
It's likely. Such fair ladies are not prudes, And seldom travel round the world alone.
I'll guard this door. It will go hard, indeed, If I can't capture that false actor here. He's taken now—no doubt of that! [Goes out.
I think I've done a foolish thing. [Taking Gracieux aside, who all this time has stood in a corner gesticulating and running over his lines: in a whisper. Who is that lady Sitting within the shadow there? [Indicating the door of the barn.
Chimène? [Solemnly.] My lord, I do not know her name. Ask him, This lord, her noble friend. [Exits on the side of the park.
Scène VII
This gentleman? Tell me— 'Tis strange how hard he looks at me! Upon my soul, 'tis he! My man! [Loud to Didier.] If you Were not in prison, I should say that you Resemble a—
And if you were not dead, I'd say That you had the exact appearance of— His blood be on his head!—a man whom two Short words of mine put in a tomb.
Hush! You Are Didier!
Marquis Gaspard, you!
'Twas you Who were somewhere, a certain night! 'Tis you To whom I owe my life! [He opens his arms. Didier draws back.
Excuse surprise! I felt so sure I took it back.
Not so! You saved me—did not kill me! Let me know What I can do for you. Do you desire A second—brother—a lieutenant? Speak! What will you have—my blood, my wealth, my soul?
Not any of those things. That portrait there! [Saverny gives him the portrait; he looks at it, speaking with bitterness. Yes, there's her brow, her black eyes, her white neck; Above all, there's her candid glance! How like!
You think so?
This was made for you, you say?
It was! But now 'tis you whom she prefers, You whom she loves and chooses 'mongst us all. You are a happy man.
Yes! Am I not?
Accept my compliments; she's a good girl, And loves no one but men of family. Of such a mistress one can well be proud! It's honorable, and it gives one style. 'Tis in good taste. If men ask who you are They say, "Beloved of Marion de Lorme." [Didier gives him back the portrait; he refuses it. No, keep the portrait; since the lady's yours, It should belong to you. Keep it, I pray.
I thank you! [Puts it in his breast.
She is charming in that dress. So you are my successor! One might say, As King Louis succeeded Pharamond. The Brissacs, both of them, supplanted me. [Laughing.] Then, yes, the Cardinal himself came next, Then little D'Effiat, then the three Sainte-Mesmes, The four Argenteans! In her heart you'll find The best society. [Laughing.] A little numerous.
My God!
Tell me about it some time. Now, To be quite frank with you, I pass for dead, And in the morning shall be buried. You Must have escaped police and seneschals. Your Marion can manage everything! You joined a strolling company by chance; What a delightful history!
Yes, true It is a history!
To get you out She probably made love to all the jailers.
Do you think that?
You are not jealous—what? Oh, joke incredible!—of Marion! A man jealous of Marion! The poor child! Don't go and scold her!
Have no fear. [Aside.] The angel— It was a demon! Oh, my God! [Enter Laffemas and Gracieux. Didier goes out; Saverny follows him.
Scène VIII
My lord, I do not understand you! [Aside.] Humph! A costume Of Alcaid and a figure of police; Small eyes, adorned with big eyebrows! I think He plays the part of Alguazil in this Locality.
My friend!
My lord—I see! Chimène has interested you. You wish To know—
Who is her Roderick?
You mean Her lover?
Who groans beneath her spell?
There's one?
Of course!
Then show him to me, quick!
It's I, my lord. I'm mad about her!
You! [Laffemas, disappointed, turns away with annoyance; then he comes back and shakes his purse in Gracieux's eyes and ears. Know you the sound of ducats?
Heavenly tones!
I've got my Didier! [To Gracieux.] Do you see this purse?
How much!
Gold ducats—twenty!
Will you?
Most certainly! [With theatrical tone to Laffemas, who listens anxiously. My lord, if your back bore Just in the center a great hump, as big As is your belly, and if those two bags Were filled with louis, sequins, and doubloons, In that case—
Well, what would you do?
I'd take The whole of it, and I would say— [With profound obeisance. I thank you; You are a gentleman!
Plague on the monkey!
The devil take the cat!
They have agreed On what to do, if any one suspects. 'Tis a conspiracy. They'll all be dumb; Accursed gypsy devils! [To Gracieux who is going away. Give me back My purse!
What do you take me for, my lord? What will the world think of us, pray, if you Propose and I agree to anything So infamous as sell for gold a life, My soul? [Turns to go.
That's as you please; but give me back My money!
No, I keep my honor, sir, And we have no accounts to settle. [He salutes him and re-enters barn.
Scène IX
Humph! The wretched juggler! Pride in such base souls! If you some day should fall into my hands Unoccupied with better sort of game— But this will not find Didier! Now, I can't Take all this crowd and put them to the torture. This is worse work than hunting needles in A haystack. Faith! a chemist's crucible Bewitched I ought to have, which, eating up The lead and copper, would reveal at last The golden ingot hid by much alloy. Go to the Cardinal without my prize? [Striking his brow. That's it! The clever thought! Oh, joy! He's mine! [Calling through the barn door. Ho, gentlemen, comedians! one word, please. [The actors crowd out of the barn.
Scène X
What do you want with us?
Without preamble: My lord the Cardinal commissioned me To find good actors, if there may be such Within the provinces, to act the plays Which he constructs in hours of leisure when Allowed by State affairs. In spite of care And earnest thought, his theater declines, And is no credit to a cardinal-duke. [All the actors press eagerly forward. Saverny enters, and watches the scene with curiosity.
Twelve only! He said twenty. The old scamp! He's robbed me!
Let each one repeat some scene, That I may know your talents and may choose. [Aside.] If he gets out of that, this Didier's sharp. [Aloud.] Are you all here? [Marion stealthily approaches Didier and tries to lead him off.
Come with the others—you!
Oh, heaven! [Didier leaves her and joins the actors; she follows him.
You're in luck to be with us. To have new clothes, get every day a feast, To speak the Cardinal's verses every night, A happy lot! [All the actors take their places before Laffemas. Marion and Didier among them. Didier does not look at Marion; his eyes are bent on the ground; his arms are folded underneath his cloak. Marion watches him anxiously.
Who would have thought this crow Recruited actors for the Cardinal?
First you. What do you play?
I'm called the Sylph Among the troupe. This piece I know the best. [He sings. "On the bald heads of magistrates, Enormous wigs are spread. Out of that fleece, in due time, come Chains, gallows, tortures dread. Whenever one called president Shall shake his bigger head. "Let any barber, strolling fool, Wash, powder, and pomade The hair which bald heads steal from beards, Let them be combed and frayed In shape of a right gorgeous wig— Your magistrate is made. "The lawyer is a sea of words Hurled wildly at the bench. A killing kind of mixing up Of Latin and bad French—"
You sing so false, you'd make an eagle sick. Be still!
I may sing false—the song is true!
It's your turn now.
I'm Scaramouche, my lord! "The Lady of Honor," sir, I open thus. [Declaiming. "'Naught is so fine,' said once a Queen of Spain, 'As bishop at the altar, soldier in The field, unless it is a girl in bed, Or robber on the gallows—'" [Laffemas interrupts Scaramouche with a gesture and signs to Taillebras to speak. Taillebras makes a profound obeisance, then draws himself up.
As for me, Sir, I am Taillebras. From Thibet, sir, I come; I've punished the great Khan, I've captured The Mogul—
Choose something else— [Low to Saverny, who stands beside him. A beauty, Eh, this Marion!
It is one of our best. If you prefer, I will be Charlemagne, The Emperor of the West. [Declaiming with emphasis. "Strange destiny! O Heaven, I appeal to you! Bear witness Unto my woe. I must despoil myself, Surrender my beloved one to another. I must endow my rival, fill his heart With joy, while my poor stomach stings with grief. Thus, birds, you can no more perch in the woods; Thus, flies, you can no more buzz in the fields; Thus, sheep, you can no longer wear your wool; Thus, bulls, you can no longer raze the plains."
Good! [To Saverny.] Listen, the fine verses! "Bradamante" By Garnier; what a poet! [To Marion.] 'Tis your turn, My beauty. First, your name.
I am Chimène!
Indeed! Chimène? Then you must have a lover. He has killed a man in duel—
Oh, heaven!
I've a good memory. If one escapes—
Great heaven!
Come! Now let us hear your scene
"Since to arrest you in this fatal course Your life and honor are of no avail, If ever I have loved you, Roderick, Defend yourself to save me from Don Sancho. Fight valiantly against the fearful fate Which must surrender me to one I hate. Shall I say more? Go; your defense shall be Your right to force my duty, seal my lips! If love for me still in your brave heart lies, Go win this combat, for Chimène is prize." [Laffemas rises gallantly and kisses her hand. Marion is pale; she looks at Didier, who remains motionless with eyes on the ground.
No voice but yours could take so firm a hold Upon the secret fibers of our heart. You are adorable. [To Saverny.] You can't deny Corneille is not worth Garnier, after all. 'Tis true, his verses have a finer ring Since he's belonged unto the Cardinal-Duke. [To Marion.] What a complexion! What fine eyes! Good God! This is no place for you! You're buried here. Sit down! [He sits and makes sign to Marion to sit beside him; she draws back.
For God's sake, let me stay with you!
Come sit by me, I say! [Didier repulses Marion, who staggers terrified to the bench where Laffemas sits, and falls upon it.
'Tis horrible!
At last! [To Didier.] Now, sir, your turn. What is your name?
My name is Didier!
Yes, you can Send all of them away. You've got your prey. Your prisoner himself takes up his chain. This joy has cost you a great deal of work.
Don't try to hinder me this time, Madame! [She starts back and falls crushed upon the bank: to Laffemas. I've watched you creeping close to me, You demon! In your eyes I've seen that glare Of hell fire which illuminates your soul. I might have 'scaped your trap—a useless thing; But to see cunning wasted thus grieved me. Take me, and get well paid for treachery.
You are not a comedian, it would seem!
It's you who played the comedy.
Not well. But with the Cardinal I'll write a play. It is a tragedy: you have a part. [Marion screams with horror. Didier turns from her with contempt. Don't turn your head in such a lordly way. We will admire your acting, never fear! Come, recommend your soul to God, my friend.
Ah, God! [At this moment Marquis de Nangis passes across the back of the stage, in the same attitude, with his escort of Halberdiers. Marion's cry arrests him; pale and silent he turns to the characters.
Marquis, I claim your aid. Good news! Lend me your escort. The murderer escaped Our vigilance, but we've recaptured him.
Oh, pity for him!
At my feet, madame! 'Tis I should kneel at yours.
My lord the judge, Have mercy upon others, if some day You hope a jealous judge, more powerful Than you are, will be merciful to you!
You're preaching us a sermon, I believe! Ah, madame, reign at balls and shine at fêtes, But do not preach us sermons. For your sake, I would do anything; but he has killed— It is a murder.
Rise! [Marion rises, trembling. You lie! it was a duel.
I say, you lie!
Have done! [To Marion.] Blood calls For blood; this rigor troubles me— I wish— But he has killed—killed whom? The young marquis, Gaspard de Saverny, [Indicating Marquis de Nangis. Nephew to him, That worthy old man there. A rare young lord; The greatest loss for France and for the King. Were he not dead, I do not say that I— My heart is not of stone, and if—
The man You think is dead is living. I am he! [General astonishment.
Gaspard de Saverny! A miracle! There is his coffin.
But he is not dead! Who recognizes me?
Gaspard! My nephew! It is my child! [They remain locked in each other's arms.
Didier is saved! Praise God!
What is the use? I wished to die.
Kind God, You have protected him!
How otherwise Could he have caught me in his trap? Think you My spur could not have crushed the spider's web Which he had made to catch a gnat? Henceforth I ask no other boon than death. This is No friendly gift from you, who owe me life!
What does he say? You must live—
All's not over. Is it certain that this is the Marquis?
It is.
We must have proof of it at once.
Look at that old man, how he smiles and weeps!
Is that Gaspard de Saverny?
What heart Can question such a close embrace?
You ask If it is he—Gaspard, my son, my soul? [To Marion.] Did he not ask if it was he, madame?
Then you affirm that this man is your nephew? He is Gaspard de Saverny?
I do!
According to the law I do arrest Gaspard de Saverny, in the King's name. Your sword! [Surprise and consternation among the characters.
My son!
Oh, Heaven!
Another head! Yes, two were needed. 'Tis the least, to bring This Roman Cæsar one head in each hand.
Speak! By what right—
Ask my lord cardinal. All who survive a duel fall beneath The ordinance. Give me your sword.
Rash man!
'Tis here!
A moment! None is master here Save me! I mete out justice high and low. Our sire the King would be no more than guest. [To Saverny.] Give up your sword to none but me. [Saverny hands him his sword, and clasps him in his arms.
In truth, That is a feudal right quite out of date. The Cardinal might blame me for it, but I would not willingly annoy you—
So I consent. You can return the favor By loaning me your guard and prison, sir.
Not so! Your sires were vassals to my sires. I forbid any one to stir a step.
My masters, hark to me: I am the judge Of the secret tribunal, Criminal- Lieutenant to the Cardinal. Conduct These men to prison. Four of you mount guard Before each door. You're all responsible. It would be rash to disobey when I command You to go here or there or do a deed. If any hesitate, it is because His head annoys him. [The Guards, terrified, drag the two prisoners off in silence, Marquis de Nangis turns away indignant and buries his face in his hands.
All is lost! [To Laffemas.] Have pity! If in your heart—
If you will come to-night, I'll tell you something—
What is it he wants? His smiles are terrible. He has a gloomy, Treacherous soul. [Turning with desperation to Didier. Didier!
Farewell, madame!
What have I done? Oh, miserable woman! [She sinks upon the bank.
Miserable! Yes!
Is your pay doubled When you bring two heads?
My lord, The funeral preparations for the Marquis Are now completed. I am sent to you To know what hour and day the ceremony Will be performed.
Come back one month from now. [The Guards lead off Didier and Saverny.
THE KING Scene.—Chambord. The guard-room in the Castle of Chambord
Scène I
Duke de Bellegarde, rich court costume covered with embroidery and lace, the order of the Holy Ghost around his neck, and the star upon his cloak. Marquis de Nangis, in deep mourning and followed by his escort of Guards. Both cross the back of the hall
E'en so! The King can pardon. It is his kingly right and royal duty. Have no more fear. In heart as well as name He's son of Henry IV.
I was his comrade.
Indeed, we spoiled full many a coat of armor For the proud sire! Now go unto the son, Show him your gray hairs, and in lieu of prayer Cry out "Ventre Saint Gris!" Let Richelieu Himself give better reason! Hide here now. [He opens a side door. He's coming soon. Do you know, to be frank, Your costume's of a style to make one laugh.
Laugh at my mourning?
Ah, these coxcombs here! Old friend, stay there; you'll not have long to wait. I will dispose him 'gainst the Cardinal. I'll stamp upon the ground for signal; then Come out.
May God repay you!
Monsieur, pray, What does the King?
He's working, my lord duke! [Lowering his voice. A man in black is with him.
At this moment He is singing a death-warrant, I believe. [To the old Marquis, grasping his hand. Be brave! [He conducts him to a neighboring gallery. While waiting for the signal, look At these new ceilings, they're by Primatice. [Both go out. Marion, in deep mourning, enters through the great door in the back, which opens on a staircase.
Scène II
Madame, you cannot enter!
I say, No entrance!
Here you turn your lance against A woman. Elsewhere, 'tis in her defense.
Well said!
I must immediately have audience With the Duke de Bellegarde.
halberdier (lowering his halberd, aside). Ah, these gallants!
Enter, madame. [She enters with determined step.
halberdier (aside, watching her from the corner of his eye). Well, the old duke is not As feeble as he looks. This rendezvous Would have cost him a sojourn in the Louvre, In former times.
The door is open. [The little gilt door is opened. M. de Laffemas comes out, holding in his hand a parchment to which a red seal hangs by strands of silk.
Scène III
Marion, Laffemas: gesture of surprise from both. Marion turns away from him with horror
You! What is your errand here?
What's yours?
Signed by The King!
Good God!
Will you? [Marion shivers and looks him in the face; he fixes his eyes on hers: lowering his voice. Wilt thou?
Away! Foul tempter!
You will not!
I have no fear! The King can pardon: 'tis the King who reigns.
Go try him. See what his good will is worth! [He turns away, then turns back: folds his arms and whispers to her. Beware of waiting until I refuse! [Exits. Duke de Bellegarde enters.
Scène IV
Here you are captain, my lord duke.
'Tis you, My beauty! [Bowing. Speak! What does my queen desire?
To see the King.
This is short notice! Why?
For something!
We will send for him! How she goes on!
Then you refuse me?
Nay! Am I not yours? Have we refused each other Anything?
That's very well, my lord! When shall I see the King?
After the Duke. I promise you shall see him when he passes Through this hall. But while waiting, talk with me! Ah, little woman, are we good? In black? Lady-in-waiting you might be. You used To laugh so much.
I don't laugh now.
Indeed! I think she's weeping! Marion! You?
My lord, I want to see his Majesty at once!
For what?
Just Heaven! For—
Is it against The Cardinal?
It is!
Please enter here. I put the discontented all in there; Do not come out before the signal, please. [Marion enters; he shuts door. I would have run the risk for my old friend. It costs no more to do it for them both. [The hall is gradually filled with Courtiers; they talk together. Duke de Bellegarde goes from one to the other. L'Angely enters.
Scène V
Good-morning, Duke!
Any news?
There's talk of a new cardinal.
Which one? The Archbishop of Arle?
No! Bishop of Autun. All Paris thinks he has obtained the hat.
'Tis his by right. He was commander of Artillery at the siege of La Rochelle.
That's true!
The Holy See has my approval. This one will be a cardinal according To the canons.
L'Angely—the fool!
My lord knows all my names. [Laffemas enters; all the Courtiers vie with each other in paying court to him and surrounding him. Duke de Bellegarde watches them with vexation.
Fool, who's that man Who wears the ermine cloak?
Whom every one Is paying court to?
Yes. I know him not. Is he a follower of Monsieur d'Orleans?
They would not fawn on him so much.
What airs! As if he were grandee of Spain!
It is Sir Laffemas, intendant of Champagne, Lieutenant-Criminal—
Infernal, say! He's called the Cardinal's executioner?
The same.
That man at Court!
Why not? One extra Tiger-cat in the menagerie! Shall I present him?
Peace, you fool!
I think I'd cultivate him if I were a lord. Be friendly! Unto each man comes his day. If he takes not your hand, he may your head. [He seeks Laffemas, presents him to Duke de Bellegarde, who bows with ill-concealed displeasure.
Sir Duke!
Sir, I am charmed— [Aside.] Upon my life, We're fallen low, Monsieur de Richelieu! [Laffemas walks away.
viscount de rohan (bursting into laughter among a group of Courtiers in the back of the hall). Delightful!
That Marion is here.
We were just saying this: "Chaste Louis's guest is Marion." How rich!
A charming piece of wit, indeed, my lord!
Sir wolf-hunter, have you found any prey? Is hunting good?
There's nothing! Yesterday I had great expectations, for three peasants Had been devoured by wolves. At first I thought We would find several at Chambord. I beat The woods, but not a wolf, nor trace of one! [To L'Angely.] Fool, know you anything that's gay?
Nothing, My lord, except two men will soon be hanged At Beaugency for dueling.
So little, Bah! [The small gilt door is opened.
The King! [The King enters; he is in black, his eyes are cast down. The order of the Holy Ghost is on his doublet and his cloak. Hat on his head. The Courtiers all uncover and range themselves, silently, in two rows. The Guards lower their pikes and present muskets.
Scène VI
The King enters slowly, passes through the crowd of Courtiers, without lifting his head, stops at front of stage, and stands for several instants absorbed and silent. The Courtiers retire to the back of the hall
All things move on from bad to worse. Yes, all! [To Courtiers, nodding his head. God keep you, gentlemen! [He throws himself into a large armchair and sighs profoundly. I have slept ill! [To Duke de Bellegarde. My lord!
The time for sleeping, sire, is past.
True, Duke! The State is rushing to destruction With giant strides!
'Tis guided by a hand Both strong and wise.
He bears a heavy burden, Our good lord cardinal!
He is old. I ought to spare him, but I have enough To do with living, without reigning!
Sire, The Cardinal's not old!
Pray, tell me frankly— No one is watching or is listening here— What do you think of him?
Of whom, sire?
His Eminence?
Of course!
My dazzled eyes Can hardly fix themselves—
Is that your frankness? There is no cardinal here, nor red, nor gray! No spies! Speak! Why are you afraid? The King Wants your opinion of the Cardinal.
Entirely frank, sire?
Yes, entirely frank.
Well, then, I think him a great man!
If needful You would proclaim it on the house-tops? Good! Can you not understand? The State, mark me, Is suffering, because he does it all And I am nothing!
Rules he not war And peace, finances, states? Makes he not laws, Edicts, mandates, and ordinances too? Through treachery he broke the Catholic league; He strikes the house of Austria—friendly To me—to which the Queen belongs.
Ah, sire, He lets you keep a vivary within The Louvre. You have your share.
Then he intrigues With Denmark.
But he let you fix the marc Among the jewelers.
He fights with Rome!
He let you issue an edict, alone, By which a citizen was not allowed To eat more than a crown's worth at a tavern, E'en though he wished to.
All the treaties he Concludes in secret.
Yes; but then you have Your hunting mansion at Planchette.
All—all! He does it all! All with petitions rush To him! I'm but a shadow to the French! Is there a single one who comes to me For help?
[The anger of The King increases.
He means to give my order to his brother! I will not have it! I rebel.
But, sire—
I am disgusted with his people!
His niece, Combalet, leads a model life.
'Tis slander, sire!
Two hundred foot-guards!
But Only a hundred horse-guards!
What a shame!
He saves France, sire.
Does he? He damns my soul! With one arm fights the heathen, with the other He signs a compact with the Huguenots. [Whispering to Duke de Bellegarde. Then, if I dared to count upon my hand The heads—the heads that fall for him at Grève! All friends of mine! His purple robes are made Of their hearts' blood! 'Tis he who forces me To wear eternal mourning.
Treats he his own More kindly? Did he spare Saint Preuil?
He has A bitter tenderness, they say, for those He loves. He must love me tremendously! [Abruptly, after a pause, folding his arms. He has exiled my mother!
But he thinks He does your will. He's faithful. He is firm And sure.
I hate him! He is in my way. He crushes me! I am not master here— Not free! And yet I might be something. Ah, When he walks o'er me with such heavy tread, Does he not fear to rouse a slumbering king? For trembling near me, be it ne'er so high, His fortune vacillates with every breath I draw, and all would crumble at a word, Did I wish loud, what I wish in my heart! [A pause.That man makes good men bad, and bad men vile! The kingdom, like
Your Majesty is suffering?
I am bored. [A pause. I am the first in France and yet the last! I'd change my lot to lead a poacher's life— To hunt all day; to have no cares to fret The pleasures of the chase; to sleep 'neath trees; To laugh at the King's officers, to sing During the storm; to live as freely in the woods As birds live in the air. The peasant in His hut, at least, is master and is king; But with that scarlet man forever there, Forever stern and cold, and speaking thus, "This must be your good pleasure, sire!" Oh, outrage! This man conceals me from my people's gaze. As with young children, he hides me beneath His robe; and when a passer-by asks, "Who Is that behind the Cardinal?" they say, "The King!" Then there are new lists every day. Last week the Huguenots; the duelists To-day! He wants their heads. Such a great crime— A duel! But the heads; what does he do With them? [Duke de Bellegarde stamps his foot. Enter Marquis de Nangis and Marion.
Scène VII
Marquis de Nangis advances with his escort to within a few steps of The King; he kneels there. Marion falls on her knees at the door
Justice, my sire.
Against whom? Speak!
Against a cruel tyrant—against Armand, Called here the cardinal-minister!
Mercy, My sire!
For whom?
For Didier!
And for him, Gaspard de Saverny!
I've heard those names.
Justice and mercy, sire!
What title?
Sire, I am uncle of one.
And you?
I'm sister Unto the other!
Why do you come here, Sister and uncle?
marquis de nangiis (indicating first one of The King's hands, then the other). To entreat mercy From this hand, and justice from that! My sire, I, William, Marquis de Nangis, Captain Of Hundred Lances, Baron of Mountain And Field, do make appeal to my two lords— The King of France and God, for justice 'gainst Armand du Plessis, Cardinal Richelieu. Gaspard de Saverny, for whom I make This prayer, is my nephew—
Oh, speak for both, My lord!
Last month he had a duel with A captain, a young nobleman, Didier. Of parentage uncertain. 'Twas a fault. They were too rash and brave. The minister Had stationed sergeants—
Yes, I know the story. Well, what have you to say?
That 'tis high time You thought about these things! The Cardinal-Duke Has more than one disastrous scheme afoot. He drinks the best blood of your subjects, sire! Your father, Henry IV., of royal heart, Would not have sacrificed his nobles thus! He never struck them down without dire need! Well served by them, he sought to guard them well. He knew good soldiers had more use in them Than trunkless heads. He knew their worth in war, This soldier-king whose doublet smelled of battle! Great days were those. I shared, I honor them! A few of the old race are living yet. Never could priest have touched one of those lords. There was no selling of a great head cheap! Sire, in these treacherous days to which we've come, Trust an old man, keep a few nobles by. Perhaps, in your turn, you will need their help. The time may come when you will groan to think Of all the honors lavished on La Grève! Then, sadly, your regretful eyes will seek Those lords indomitably brave and true, Who, dead so long, had still been young to-day. The country's heart yet pants with civil war; The tocsin of past years re-echoes yet, Be saving of the executioner's arm! He is the one should sheathe his sword, not we! Be miserly with scaffolds, O my sire! 'Twill be a woful thing some later day To mourn this great man's help, who hangs to-day A whitening skeleton on gallows-tree! For blood, my king, is no good, wholesome dew. You'll reap no crops from irrigated Grève! The people will avoid the sight of kings. That flattering voice which tells you all is well, Tells you you're son of Henry IV., and Bourbon— That voice, my sire, however high it soars, Can never drown the thud of falling heads! Take my advice: play not this costly game. You, King, are bound to look God in the face, Hark to the words of fate, ere it rebels! War is a nobler thing than massacre! 'Tis not a prosperous nor joyful State When headsmen have more work than soldiers have! He for our country is a pastor hard, Who dares collect his tithes in slaughtered heads! Look! this proud lord of inhumanity Who holds your scepter has blood-covered hands!
The Cardinal's my friend! Who loves me must Love him!
Silence! He's my second self.
Bring no more such griefs to trouble me! [Showing his hair, which is beginning to turn gray. Petitioners like you make these gray hairs!
An old man, sire; a woman, sire, who weeps! A word from you is life or death for us!
What do you ask?
Pardon for my Gaspard!
Pardon for Didier!
Pardons of a king Are often thefts from justice!
Oh, no, sire! Since God himself is merciful, you need Not fear! Have pity! Two young, thoughtless men, Pushed by this duel o'er a precipice To die! Good God! to die upon the gallows! You will have pity, won't you? I don't know How people talk to kings—I'm but a woman; To weep so much perhaps is wrong. But oh, A monster is that cardinal of yours. Why does he hate them? They did naught to him. He never saw my Didier. All who do Must love him! They're so young—these two! To die For just a duel! Think about their mothers. Oh, it is horrible! You will not do it, sire! We women cannot talk as well as men. We've only cries and tears and knees, which bend And totter as kings turn their eyes on us. They were in fault, of course! But if they broke Your law, you can forgive it! What is youth? Young people are so heedless! For a look, A word, a trifle, anything or nothing, They always lose their heads like that! Such things Are happening every day. Each noble, here, He knows it. Ask them, sire! Is it not true, My lords? Oh, frightful hour of agony! To know with one word you can save two lives! I'd love you all my life, sire, if you would Have mercy—mercy, God! If I knew how, I'd talk so that you'd have to say that word. You'd pardon them; you'd say, "I must console That woman, for her Didier is her soul." I suffocate, sire. Pity, pity me!
Who is this woman?
She's a sister, sire, Who trembles at your feet. You owe something Unto your people!
Yes! I owe myself To them, and dueling does grievous harm.
You should have pity!
And obedience, too!
Two boys of twenty years! Think of it well! Their years together are but half of mine!
Your Majesty, you have a mother, wife, A son—some one at least who's dear to you! A brother? Then have pity for a sister!
No, I have not a brother! [Reflects a moment. Yes, Monsieur! [Perceiving the escort of Marquis de Nangis. Well, my lord marquis, what is this brigade? Are we besieged, or off to the Crusades? To bring your guards thus boldly in my sight, Are you a duke and peer?
I'm better, sire, Than any duke and peer, created for mere show! I'm Breton baron of four baronies.
His pride is great, and here, unfortunate!
Good! To your manors carry back your rights, And leave us ours within our own domain. We are justiciary!
Sire, reflect! Think of their age, their expiated fault! [Falling on his knees. The pride of an old man, who, prostrate, kneels! Have mercy! [The King makes an abrupt sign of anger and refusal. I was comrade to Henry! Your father and our father! I was there When he—that monster—struck the fatal blow. 'Til night I watched beside my royal dead: It was my duty. I have seen my father And my six brothers fall 'neath rival factions; I have lost the wife who loved me. Now The old man standing here is like a victim Whom a hard executioner, for sport, Has bound unto the wheel the whole long day. My master, God has broken every limb With His great iron rod! 'Tis night-time now, And I've received the final blow! Farewell, My king! God keep you! [He makes a profound obeisance, and exits. Marion lifts herself with difficulty, and, staggering, falls on the threshold of the gilt door of The King's private room.
A sad interview! Ah, not to weaken, kings must watch themselves! To do right is not easy. I was touched. [Reflects for a moment, then interrupts himself suddenly. No pardoning to-day, for yesterday I sinned too much! [Approaching Duke de Bellegarde. Before he came, my lord, You said bold things, which may be bad for you When I report to my lord cardinal The conversation we have had. I'm sorry For you, Duke. In the future, have more care! I slept so wretchedly, my poor Bellegarde. [With a gesture dismissing Courtiers and Guards. Pray leave us, gentlemen! [To L'Angely.] Stay, you! [All go out except Marion, whom The King does not see. Duke de Bellegarde sees her crouching on the threshold of the door and goes to her.
My child, You can't remain here, crouching by this door; What are you doing like a statue there? Get up and go away!
I'm waiting here For them to kill me!
Leave her there, my lord! [Low to Marion.] Remain! [He returns to The King, who is seated in the great armchair and is in a profound reverie.
Scène VIII
Ah! L'Angely, my heart is sick. 'Tis full of bitterness. I cannot smile. You, only, have the power to cheer me. Come! You stand in no awe of my majesty. Come, throw a glint of pleasure in my soul. [A pause.
Life is a bitter thing, your Majesty.
Man is a breath ephemeral!
A breath, and nothing more!
Unfortunate Is any one who is both man and king. Is it not true?
A double burden—yes.
And better far than life, sire, is the tomb, If but its gloom is deep enough!
I've thought That always!
To be dead or unborn is The only happiness. Yes, man's condemned!
You give me pleasure when you talk like this! [A silence.
Once in the tomb, think you one e'er gets out?
We'll know that later. I wish I were there! [Silence. Fool, I'm unhappy! Do you comprehend?
I see it in your face so thin and worn, And in your mourning—
Ah, why should I laugh? Your tricks are lost on me! What use is life To you? The fine profession! Jester to the King! Bell out of tune, a jumping-jack to play with, Whose half-cracked laugh is but a poor grimace! What is there in the world for you, poor toy? Why do you live?
For curiosity. But you—why should you live? I pity you! I'd sooner be a woman than a king Like you. I'm but a jumping-jack whose string You hold; but underneath your royal coat There's hid a tauter string, a strong arm holds. Better a jumping-jack in a king's hands Than in a priest's, my sire. [Silence.
You speak the truth, Although you laugh. He is a fearful man! Has Satan made himself a cardinal? What if 'twere Satan who possessed my soul! What say you?
I have often had that thought Myself!
We must not speak thus. 'Tis a sin! Behold, how dire misfortune follows me! I had some Spanish cormorants. I come To this place—not a drop of water here For fishing! In the country! Not a pond In this accursed Chambord large enough To drown a flesh-worm! When I wish to hunt— The sea! And when I wish to fish—the fields! Am I unfortunate enough?
Your life Is full of woe.
How will you comfort me?
Another grief! You hold in high esteem, And justly too, the art of training hawks For hunting partridges. A good huntsman— You're one—ought to respect the falconer.
The falconer! A god!
Well! there are two Who are at point of death!
Two falconers?
Who are they?
Two famous ones!
But who?
Those two young men whose lives were begged of you!
Gaspard and Didier?
Yes; they are the last.
What a calamity! Two falconers! Now that the art is very nearly lost. Unhappy duel! When I'm dead, this art Will go from earth, as all things go at last! Why did they fight this duel?
One declared That hawks upon the wing were not as swift As falcons.
He was wrong. But yet that seems Scarcely a hanging matter— [Silence. And my right Of pardon is inviolable—though I am too lenient, says the Cardinal! [Silence. [To L'Angely.] The Cardinal desires their death?
He does!
Then they shall die!
They shall!
Poor falconry!
Sire, look!
At what?
Just look, I beg of you!
What is it?
They have changed the sentinel!
Well, is that all?
Who is that fellow with The yellow lace?
No one—the corporal!
He puts a new man there. What says he, low?
The password! Fool! What are you driving at?
At this: Kings act the part of sentinels. Instead of pikes, a scepter they must bear. When they have strutted 'round their little day, Death comes—the corporal of kings—and puts Another scepter-bearer in their place, Speaking the password which God sends, and which Is clemency.
No, it is justice. Ah, Two falconers! It is a frightful loss! Still, they must die.
As you must die, and I. Or big or little, death has appetite For all. But though they've not much room, The dead sleep well. The Cardinal annoys And wearies you. Wait, sire! A day, a month, A year; when we have played as long as needful— I, my own part of fool; you, king; and he, The master—we will go to sleep. No matter How proud or great we are, no one shall have More than six feet of territory there. Look! how they bear his lordly litter now!
Yes, life is dark; the tomb alone is bright. If you were not at hand to cheer me up—
Alas! I came to-day to say farewell.
What's that?
I leave you!
You're a crazy fool! Death, only, frees from royal service.
Well, I am about to die!
Have you gone mad?
You have condemned me—you, the King of France!
If you are joking, fool, explain yourself.
I shared the duel of those two young men— At least my sword did, sire, if I did not. I here surrender it. [Draws his sword and, kneeling, presents it to The King.
Indeed, a sword! Where does it come from, friend?
We're noble, sire! The guilty are not pardoned. I am one.
Good night, then! Let me kiss your neck, poor fool, Before they cut it off. [Embraces L'Angely.
He's in dead earnest!
For never does a worthy king oppose The course of justice. But you claim too much, Lord Cardinal—two falconers and my fool! All for one duel! [Greatly agitated, he walks up and down with his hand on his forehead. Then he turns to L'Angely, who is most anxious. Go! console yourself! Life is but bitterness, the tomb means rest. Man is a breath ephemeral.
The devil! [The King continues to pace the floor and appears violently agitated.
And so, you think you'll have to hang, poor fool!
He means it! God! I feel cold perspiration Starting upon my brow. [Aloud.] Unless a word From you—
Whom shall I have to make me laugh? If you should rise from out the tomb, come back And tell me all about it. 'Tis a chance!
The errand is a pleasant one! [The King continues to walk rapidly, speaking to L'Angely now and then.
What triumph For my lord cardinal—my fool! [Folding his arms. Think you I could be master if I wished to be?
Montaigne would say, "Who knows?" And Rabelais, "Perhaps."
Give me a parchment, fool. [L'Angely eagerly hands a parchment which he finds on the table near the writing-desk. The King hastily writes a few words, then gives the parchment back to L'Angely. Behold! I pardon all.
All three?
Come, madame, Come, kneel, and thank the King.
We have the pardon?
Yes! It was I—
Whose knees must I embrace— His Majesty's or yours?
What does this mean? Is this a trap?
Here is the pardon. Take it! [Marion kisses it, and puts it in her bosom.
Have I been duped? [To Marion.] One instant! Give it back!
Good God! [To The King, with courage, touching her breast. Come here and take it, and tear out My heart as well! [The King stops and steps backward, much embarrassed.
Good! Keep it, and be firm! His Majesty won't take it, there!
Give it To me!
Take it, my sire!
Who is this siren?
He wouldn't touch the corset of the Queen!
Well, go!
I'll fly to save the prisoners! [Exits.
She's sister to Didier, the falconer.
She can be what she will. It's very strange, The way she made me drop my eyes! Made me, A man— [Silence. Fool, you have played a trick on me! I'll have to pardon you a second time.
Yes, do it! Every time they grant a pardon, Kings lift a dreary weight from off their hearts.
You speak the truth. I always suffer when La Grève holds court. Nangis was right: the dead Serve nobody. To fill Montfaucon I make a desert of the Louvre! [Walking rapidly. 'Tis treason To strike my right of pardon out, before My face. What can I do? Disarmed, dethroned, And fallen: in this man absorbed, as in A sepulcher! His cloak becomes my shroud: My people mourn for me as for the dead. I am resolved: those two boys shall not die! The joy of living is a heavenly gift. [After reflection. God, who knows where we go, can ope the tomb; A king cannot. Back to their families I give them; that old man, that fair young girl, Will bless me. It is said: I've signed it—I, The King. The Cardinal will be furious, But it will please Bellegarde.
One can, sometimes, Be kingly by mistake.
THE CARDINAL Scene.—Beaugency. The tower of Beaugency. A courtyard; the tower in the background, all around a high wall. To the left, a tall arched door; to the right, a small rounded door in the wall; near the door a stone table and stone bench
Scène I
They are pulling down a corner of the back wall on the left. The demolition is almost completed
It's very hard!
Deuce take this heavy wall we're pulling down!
Saw you the scaffold, Peter?
Yes, I did. [He goes to the large door and measures it. The door is narrow; never will the litter Of the Lord Cardinal go through it.
Bah! Is it a house?
With great long curtains. Yes. It takes some four and twenty men on foot To carry it.
I saw the great machine, One night when it was very dark. It looked Just like Leviathan in shadow-land.
What does he come here with his sergeants for?
To see the execution of those two young men. He's sick. He needs to be amused.
To work! [They resume work; the wall is about torn down. Saw you the scaffold, all in black? That comes Of being noble!
They have everything.
I wonder If they would build a black scaffold for us.
What have those young men done that they should die? Hein? Do you understand, Maurice?
I don't. It's justice. [They continue their work. Laffemas enters; The Workmen are silent. He comes from the back as though he were coming from an inside court of the prison; stops beside The Workmen, appears to examine the breach, and gives them some directions. When the space is opened, he orders them to hang black cloth across it, which covers it entirely; then he dismisses them. At almost the same moment Marion appears, dressed in white, and veiled; she enters through the great door, crosses the court rapidly, and runs to the grating of the small door, at which she knocks. Laffemas follows slowly in the same direction. The grating is opened; The Turnkey appears.
Scène II
Order of the King!
You can't Enter, madame.
Signed, the Cardinal!
Enter. [When about to enter, Laffemas turns, looks at Marion a moment, then approaches her. The Turnkey shuts the door.
You here? This questionable place!
I am. [Triumphantly showing the parchment. I have the pardon!
Yes? I have The revocation!
Mine was yesterday— The morning!
Mine, last night!
My God! No hope!
Hope is a flash of lightning which deceives. The clemency of kings is a frail thing; It comes with lagging steps and goes with wings.
The King was moved with pity for their fate!
What can the King against the Cardinal?
Oh, Didier, our last hope's extinguished now!
Not—not the last!
Just Heaven!
There is here A man whom one short word from you could make Happier than any king, and mightier too!
Is that your answer?
I beg you!
How fleeting are the whims of the fair sex! You were not always, madame, so severe! Now that 'tis question of your lover's life—
If it would save your life, I could not go Back to that infamy. My soul's grown pure At touch of you, my Didier; sin is shamed. Your love gives back my lost virginity.
Well, love him!
Ah, he pushes me from crime To vice! Oh, monster, go! Let me keep pure!
There is but one thing left for me to do!
What is it?
I can show you—let you see. It is to-night.
Oh, heaven! this night!
This night The Cardinal, in litter, will attend. [Marion is buried in a deep and painful reverie. Suddenly she passes her two hands over her brow and turns, as if wild, toward Laffemas.
How could you manage their escape?
You mean? Two of my men could guard this place, by which The Cardinal passes— [He listens at the small door. I think some one comes!
You'll save him?
Yes. [Low.] To tell you in this place— The walls have echoes—elsewhere.
Come! [Laffemas goes toward the large door and signs to her to follow. She falls on her knees, turned toward the grating of the prison; then she arises with a convulsive effort and disappears through the great door after Laffemas. Saverny and Didier enter, surrounded by Guards.
Scène III
Saverny, dressed in the latest fashion, enters gayly and petulantly. Didier is in black, walks slowly, is very pale. A jailer accompanied by Halberdiers conducts them. The Jailer places the two Halberdiers as sentinels beside the black curtain. Didier sits, silently, on the stone bench
Thank you. The air is very good!
My lord, two words with you.
Four, if you like.
Will you escape?
Speak! How?
That's my affair.
Truly? [The Jailer nods his head. Lord Cardinal, You meant to keep me from attending balls, But it appears I am to dance again. The pleasant thing that life is! [To The Jailer.] When, my friend?
To-night, as soon as it is dark.
My faith! I shall be charmed to leave these quarters. Whence Comes this assistance?
Marquis de Nangis.
My good old uncle! [To The Jailer.] 'Tis for both, I hope!
I can save only one!
For twice as much?
I can save only one!
Just one? [Low to The Jailer.] Then listen; Good jailer, that's the one to save! [Indicating Didier.
You jest!
I do not! He's the one!
What an idea! Your uncle wants to save you, not save him.
It's settled? Then prepare two shrouds at once. [Turns his back on The Jailer, who goes out, astonished. A Registrar enters. We can't be left alone an instant—strange!
The royal councilor of the Great Chamber Is close at hand. [Salutes them again and exits.
'Tis well! [Laughing. Annoying luck! Twenty years old—September—and to die Before October!
Come, look at me well! Eyes in my eyes: thus. You are beautiful! What radiant grace! Hardly a woman, you! No: much more like an angel. God Himself When He formed that divinely honest look Put much fire in it but more chastity. That childish mouth, pushed open by sweet hopes, Throbs with its innocence. [Throwing the portrait violently to the ground. Why did that peasant Take me unto her breast? Why not have dashed My head against the stones? What did I do Unto my mother to be cursed with birth? Why, in that misery, it may be crime, Which forced her to abandon her own blood, Had she not motherhood enough to choke Me in her arms?
The swallows fly quite low; 'Twill rain to-night.
A faithless, a mad thing, A woman is: inconstant, cruel, deep, And turbulent as is the ocean. Ah, Upon that sea I trusted all my fortune! In all the vast horizon saw one star! Well! I am shipwrecked! Nothing's left but death. Yet I was born good-hearted: might have found The spark divine within me by-and-by. Fair looked the future! Oh, remorseless woman, Did you not shrink in face of such a lie, Since to your mercy I trusted my soul?
Forever Marion! You've strange ideas About her!
Down 'mongst the degraded things I must throw you, oh, woman who betrays! A demon, with eyes touched by angels' wings. [Puts it back into his breast. Come back; here is your place! [Approaching Saverny.] A curious thing! That portrait is alive; I do not jest. While you were sleeping there so peacefully It gnawed my heart all night.
Alas! poor friend. We'll talk of death. [Aside.] It comforts him, although I find it rather sad.
What did you say? I have not listened. Since I heard that name I have been stupefied. I cannot think: I can't remember, cannot hear nor see!
Death, friend!
Oh, yes!
Let's talk about it.
What is it, after all?
Did you sleep well Last night?
No, badly, for my bed was hard.
When you are dead, your bed will be much harder, But you will sleep extremely well—that's all. They've made hell splendidly; but by the side Of life, it's nothing.
Good! My fears are gone! But to be hanged! That certainly is bad.
You're getting death; don't be an egotist.
You can be satisfied; but I am not. I'm not afraid of death—that is no boast— When death is death, but on the gallows!
Well, Death has a thousand forms—gallows are one. That moment is not pleasant when the rope Puts out your life as one puts out a flame, Choking your throat to let your soul fly up; But, after all, what matter? If all's dark, If only all this earth is hidden well, What matter if a tomb lies on one's breast? What matter if the night-winds howl and blow About the strings of flesh crows tore from you When you were on the gibbet? What care you?
You're a philosopher.
Yes, let them rave. Let vultures tear my flesh, let worms consume, As they consume all, even kings; my body Is what's concerned, not I. What do I care? When sepulchers shut down our mortal eye, The soul lifts up the mighty mass of stone And flies away— [A Councilor enters, preceded and followed by Halberdiers in black.
Scène IV
The Councilor of the King!
My mission's painful and the law severe—
I understand: there is no hope! Speak, sir!
"We, Louis, King of France and of Navarre, Reject appeals made by these men condemned, But moved by pity, change the punishment And order them beheaded."
God be praised!
You are to hold yourselves in readiness; It will take place to-day. [He salutes and prepares to exit.
As I was saying, After this death, although the corpse be mangled, Though every limb be stamped with hideous wounds, Though arms be twisted, broken every bone, Though through the mire the body has been dragged, From out that putrid, bleeding, awful flesh The soul shall rise, unstained, untouched, and pure.
'Tis well to occupy yourselves with such Great thoughts.
Please do not interrupt me, sir.
No gallows!
Order of the fête is changed, I know. The Cardinal travels with his headsman, And he must be employed; the ax will rust.
You're cool about it, yet the stake is great. [To The Councilor.] Thank you for such good news.
I wish 'twere better! Good sir, my zeal—
Excuse me. What's the hour?
At nine o'clock to-night.
I hope the sky Will be as dark as is my soul.
The place?
Here in the court. The Cardinal will come. [Councilor exits with his escort. The two prisoners remain alone. Day begins to fade. The halberds of the two sentinels, who silently promenade before the breach, are all that can be seen.
At this portentous hour we must reflect Upon the fate awaiting us. Our years Are equal, though I'm older far than you. It is but just, therefore, that mine should be The voice to cheer and to exhort you, since I am the cause of all your misery. 'Twas I who challenged you. You were content And happy: 'twas enough for me to pass Across your life to ruin it. My fate Pressed down upon yours 'til it crushed it. Now, Together, we are soon to face the tomb. We'll take each other's hand— [Sound of hammering.
What is that noise?
It is our scaffold which they're building, or Our coffins they are nailing. [Saverny sits on the stone bench. When the hour Has tolled, sometimes the heart of man gives way. Life holds us in a thousand secret ways. [A bell strikes. I think a voice is calling to us. Hark! [Another bell.
The hour is striking. [A third bell.
Yes, the hour! [A fourth bell.
In chapel! [Four more bells.
It is a voice that calls us, just the same.
Another hour! [He leans his elbows on the stone table and drops his head on his hands. The Guard is changed.
My friend, do not give way! Don't falter on this threshold we must cross. The tomb they're fitting up for us is low, And won't permit the entrance of a head. Let's go to meet them with a fearless tread. The scaffold can afford to shake, not we. They claim our heads; and since no fault is ours, We'll bear them proudly to the fatal block. [Approaches Saverny, who is motionless. Courage! [Touches his arm and finds he is asleep. Asleep! While I've been preaching courage This man has slept! What is my bravery Compared to his? Sleep on, you who can sleep. My turn will come—provided all things die, That nothing of the heart survives within The tomb, to hate what it has loved too much. [It is night. While Didier has become absorbed in his thoughts, Marion and The Jailer enter through the opening in the wall; The Jailer precedes her. He carries a dark-lantern and a bundle, both of which he places on the ground, then advances cautiously toward Marion, who has remained standing on the threshold, pale, motionless, half-wild.
Scène VI
[The scenes are mis-numbered in the book and skip from the number IV to the number VI in Act V. (note of etext transcriber)]
Be sure to come at the appointed hour. [Goes up stage; during the rest of this scene he continues to walk up and down at the back.
His lips, like red-hot iron, have branded me! [Suddenly she discovers Didier, gives a cry, runs and throws herself breathless at his feet. Didier—Didier!
Here, Marion! My God! [Coldly.] 'Tis you?
Who should it be? Oh, leave me here— Here at your feet! It is the place I love! Your hands, your dear loved hands, give them—your hands! Oh, they are wounded! Those harsh chains did that. The wretched creatures! But I'm here—you know— Oh, it is terrible! [She weeps; her sobs are audible.
Why do you weep?
Why? Didier, I'm not weeping! No, I laugh! [She laughs. We'll soon escape from here! I laugh. I'm happy. You will live; the danger's passed. [She falls again at Didier's feet and sobs. My God! All this is killing me! I'm broken—crushed.
Now hurry! We have not much time! Take this disguise. I've bribed the sentinels. We'll leave Beaugency without being seen. Go down that street, at the wall's end, out there! The Cardinal will come to see them execute His orders; we can't lose an instant now. The cannon will be fired when he arrives, And we'll be lost if we should still be here.
'Tis well!
Quick! hurry! Didier, you are saved! To be free! Didier, how I love you—God!
You say a street where the wall ends?
I do. I saw it. I've been there. It is quite safe. I saw them close up the last window, too. It may be we shall meet some women, but They'll think you're just a passer-by. Come, love; When you are far off—please put on these things— We'll laugh to see you thus disguised. Come, dear!
There is no hurry.
Death waits at the door. Fly! Didier! Since I've come!
Why did you come?
To save you! What a question to ask me! Why such a freezing tone?
Ah, well! We men Are often senseless.
We are losing time. The horses wait. What you have in your mind, You'll tell me afterward. We must fly now.
Who is that man there watching us?
The jailer. He's safe; I bribed him, as I did the guard. Do you suspect them? You have such an air.
It's nothing. We're so easily deceived.
Come! Each lost moment chills me to the heart. I seem to hear the tread of that great crowd. Hasten, my Didier—on my knees—oh, fly!
Tell me which one of us you want to save.
[Aside.] Gaspard is generous: he would not tell. [Aloud.] Does Didier speak to his beloved thus? My Didier, what have you against me?
Naught. Lift up your face and look me in the eyes. [Marion, trembling, fixes her eyes on him. It is a perfect likeness! Yes.
My love, I worship you, but come!
Don't turn away! [He looks at her fixedly.
[Aside.] The kisses of that man, he sees them! God! [Aloud.] You have a secret, something against me! It hurts you! Tell me all about it, dear. You know we often make things worse by thinking, And too late find it out; then we regret. I had my share in all your thoughts, love, once! Speak, are those days for evermore gone by? Do you not love me now? Have you forgot My little room at Blois? Forgotten how We loved each other, till the world was lost? Sometimes you grew uneasy; then I said, "If any one should see him!" Oh, 'twas fine! But one day has destroyed it all. You've said A thousand times, in words that burned my soul, I was your love, I knew your secrets, I Could make you anything I chose. What have I ever asked? I've always thought with you! This time, oh, yield to me! It is your life I'm pleading for. My Didier, hark to me. Alive or dead, I swear to follow you. All things with you, love, will be sweet to me— To fly, or die upon the scaffold. What! You push me back? You shall not! Leave your hand, I want it. My poor brow, it does no harm To rest it on your knees. I am so tired; I ran so fast to come! What would they say, The people I knew once, to see me now? I was so gay, so merry; now I weep! What is it that you have against me? Speak! Oh, shame! You must let me lie at your feet. It's very cruel of you not to say One single word. When we have thoughts, we speak! 'Twould be more merciful to stab me, love! See, I have dried my tears, and I am smiling. You smile too. Oh, if you don't smile at me, I will not love you! I have always done Just what you wanted; now it is your turn. These chains are what have chilled your soul. Love, smile And speak to me, and say "Marie."
"Marie" Or "Marion"?
Didier, be merciful!
Here, no one finds an entrance easily. Prisons of state are guarded night and day, The doors are iron, walls twenty cubits high; To open these remorseless doors, madame, To whom here did you prostitute yourself?
Who told you?
No one; but I understand.
Didier, I swear by every hope divine It was to save you, tear you from this place; To melt the executioner—to save you— Don't you hear?
I thank you! To descend As low as that! To have no shame, no soul! Oh, madame! can one be so infamous? [Crossing the court with a great cry of rage. Who is this trader in disgrace and vice, Who puts a price like that upon my head? Where is the jailer, where the judge, the man?— That I may crush him as I crush this thing. [He is about to break the portrait in his hands, but he stops, and beside himself, continues. The judge? Yes, gentlemen, make laws and judge! What matters it to me if the false weight Which swings your vile scales to this side or that Be made of woman's honor or man's life? [To Marion.] Go to your lover!
Do not treat me thus! Another word of scorn and I fall dead Here at your feet. If ever love was true And strong and pure, mine was. If any man Was ever worshiped by a woman, you Have been by me.
Hush! Do not speak! I might, For sorrow, have been born a woman too. I might have been as infamous as you. I might have sold myself, have given my breast To any passer-by, as place for rest. But if there came to me, in his frank way, An honest man, filled with the love of truth, If I had met a heart insane enough To keep its vain illusions all these years, Oh, sooner than not tell that honest man "I'm this," sooner than charm and dazzle him, Sooner than fail to warn him that my eyes So candid and my lips so pure were lies, Sooner than be perfidious and base like that, I'd want to dig my grave with my own hands.
O God!
How you would laugh if you could see The picture that my heart painted of you! How wise you were to shatter it, madame! There you were chaste and beautiful and pure! What injury has this poor man done you, Who loved you on his bended knees? [Presenting portrait to her. Perhaps This is a fitting time to give you back This pledge of love ardent and true.
Oh, shame!
Did you not have it painted just for me? [He laughs, and dashes the locket to the ground.
Will some one, out of pity, kill me now?
Time's passing.
Yes, it flies; and we are lost. Didier, I've not the right to say a single word. I am a woman to whom naught is due. You have rebuked and cursed me: you did well! I merit still more hate and shame. You've been Too kind; my broken, bruised heart is grateful. But the remorseless hour draws near. Away! The headsman you forget, remembers you. I've planned it all. You can escape. Now, listen— My God! do not refuse. You know how much It costs me. Hate me, strike me, curse me, leave Me to my shame, disown me, walk upon My bleeding heart—but fly!
Fly where? From whom? There's naught but you to fly from in this world; And I escape you, for the grave is deep.
The hour is passing.
O my Didier, fly!
I will not!
Just for pity!
Pity! why?
To see you taken, bound! To see you—there! Only to think it makes me die of horror! Come! I will be a servant unto you. Come! Take me, when I have redeemed myself, Just to have something underneath your feet. The one you called "a wife" in times of trial—
A wife! [Cannon sounds in the distance. This makes of you a widow, then!
The hour is past. [Rolling of drums. Enter Councilor of the Great Chamber, accompanied by penitents bearing torches, and by Executioner. A crowd of soldiers and people follow.
Ah, Christ!
Scène VII
I'm ready, Gentlemen!
I told you that he'd come!
We're ready also.
Which is named Gaspard, Marquis de Saverny? [Didier points to Saverny, who is asleep. [To Executioner.] Awaken him!
EXECUTIONER (shaking him). How well he sleeps, my lord!
Ah, how could you Break in on such a pleasant sleep!
'Tis only Interrupted, friend!
Oh, I was dreaming About you, my beauty!
Have you made Your peace with God?
I have, sir.
It is well. Please sign this paper!
'Tis the procès-verbal. Good! This is a most curious thing—account Of my own death, signed with my autograph! [Signs, and reads the paper again: to Councilor. You have made three mistakes in spelling, sir. [Takes the pen and corrects them. To Executioner. You have awakened me; put me to sleep!
Didier! [Didier approaches: Councilor gives pen to him. Your name is there.
The grewsome thing!
I could sign nothing with intenser joy! [The Guards form themselves into a line to lead them away.
Sir, step aside and let that young child see!
My brother, 'tis for me you suffer death; Let us embrace each other! [He embraces Saverny.
And for me No kisses, Didier!
This is my friend, madame!
How hard you are upon me, a poor thing, Who always on my knees to king or judge Have begged mercy for you from every one! Pardon of them for you; pardon of you for me!
No, I cannot! The torture's horrible! No, I have loved too much to leave her so! It is too hard to keep a cold, impassive face When underneath the heart is breaking down. Come to my arms, oh, woman, come! [Presses her convulsively to his heart. I love you! I'm about to die. Before them all, It is my loftiest joy to tell you this: I love you!
[Embraces her again with rapture. To my heart, oh, come! You who behold this direful tragedy, I wonder if there's one of you who would Refuse love unto one who'd given herself Entirely and unceasingly to him? Oh, I was wrong! Say, would you have me face Eternity without a pardon from Her lips? No! Stand by me and listen, love: Among all womankind—and those who hear Will prove me right by their own hearts—the one I love, the one in whom I trust, the one I venerate is you—is always you! For you were kind, devoted, loving, good. My life is almost ended. When death's near A clearer light illuminates all things. If you deceived me, 'twas excess of love; And if you fell, have you not cruelly atoned? Perhaps your mother—life's so hard—forgot You in your cradle, as my mother did; When you were young and helpless, perhaps they sold Your innocence. Ah, lift up your white brow! And listen, all of you. At such an hour The earth is a mere shadow and the heart Speaks true. Well, at this moment, from the height Of the dread scaffold—and there's naught so high When guiltless souls ascend it—here, I say to you, Marie, angel of light, Whose luster earth has dimmed, my love, my wife, In God's name, before whom I soon shall stand, I pardon you.
Ah, Christ!
It is your turn. Speak now, and pardon me! [He kneels before her.
Your pardon, Love! I was the most at fault, the most Unkind. God has chastised you much through me. Weep for me when I'm gone, because to have Hurt you is such a burden to take hence Into eternity. Don't leave it on me; Pardon me!
Have mercy on me—God!
Just speak one word; put your sweet hands upon My forehead. If your heart is full and you Can't speak, please make a sign. I'm dying; you Must comfort me. [Marion places her hand on his forehead; he rises, embraces her tenderly, with a smile of celestial joy. Farewell! Come, gentlemen! Let us move on!
Oh, no! Stop! This is madness! If you think you can behead him easily, You have forgotten I am here. Spare us! Oh, men! oh, soldiers, judge, people! Spare us! How do you want me to ask you? Upon My knees? Well, here I am! Now if In you there's anything that quivers at A woman's voice, if God has thrown no curse On you—don't kill him! [To the spectators.] Men and women—you! When you go back into your homes to-night, You'll find your mothers and your daughters; they Will say to you, "It was a wicked crime. You might have saved him, and you did not. Shame!" Didier, they ought to know that I must follow You! They will not kill you if they want To keep me living!
Let me die, Marie. 'Tis better, dear one, for my wound is deep; It would have taken too much time to heal. Better for me to go; but if, some time— You see I'm weeping too—another comes, A happier man, more fortunate than I, Think of your old friend sleeping in the tomb.
You shall not die! Are these men all inhuman? You must live!
Don't ask things impossible. No; with your bright eyes, turn, illuminate My grave for me. Embrace me. You will love Me better, dead. I'll hold a sacred place In your dear memory. But if I lived, Lived near you with my lacerated soul— I, who have loved no one but you—you see It would be painful. I would make you weep. I'd have a thousand thoughts I could not speak. I'd seem to doubt you, watch you, worry you. You would be most unhappy. Let me die!
The Cardinal will pass by soon, madame! You can ask pardon for him then.
Oh, yes! The Cardinal is coming—that is true. You'll see, then, gentlemen, that he will hear! My Didier, you shall hear me talk to him! The Cardinal! Indeed, you must be all insane, To think such an old man—a Christian too, The gracious Cardinal—will not be glad To pardon you. Have you not pardoned me? [Nine o'clock strikes. Didier makes sign to all to hush. Marion listens with terror. After the nine strokes have sounded, Didier goes and stands close to Saverny.
You who have come to see the last of us, If any speak of us, bear witness all, That without faltering we have heard the hour Bring us its summons to eternity. [The cannon sounds at the door of the tower; the black veil which concealed the opening in the wall, falls: the gigantic litter of The Cardinal appears, borne by twenty-four foot-guards, surrounded by twenty other guards bearing halberds and torches: the litter is scarlet and ornamented with the arms of the House of Richelieu. It crosses the back of the stage slowly. Great agitation among the crowd.
In your Christ's name! In name of all your race, Mercy for them, my lord!
No mercy! [Marion falls to the ground. The litter passes and the procession of the condemned men follows it. The crowd rush madly after them.
Ah! What did he say? Where are they gone? My love! My Didier! No one! Not a sound! Is it A dream—this place? the crowd?—or am I mad? [The people rush back in disorder. The litter reappears in the background on the side where it went off. Marion rises and gives a terrible cry. He's coming back!
Make way!
Look, all of you! It is the red man who goes by! [She falls senseless