_The same. Comedians, among them Marion and Didier; afterward
Saverny, afterward Marquis de Nangis_
SCARAMOUCHE (_to Laffemas_).
What do you want with us?
LAFFEMAS.
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._
GRACIEUX (_aside, counting his money_).
Twelve only! He said twenty. The old scamp!
He's robbed me!
LAFFEMAS.
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._
GRACIEUX (_going up to them_).
Come with the others--you!
MARION.
Oh, heaven!
[_Didier leaves her and joins the actors; she follows him._
GRACIEUX.
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._
GRACIEUX (_at head of troupe, aside_).
Who would have thought this crow
Recruited actors for the Cardinal?
LAFFEMAS (_to Gracieux_).
First you. What do you play?
GRACIEUX (_with a low bow and a pirouette which shows off his hump_).
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--"
LAFFEMAS (_interrupting him_).
You sing so false, you'd make an eagle sick.
Be still!
GRACIEUX (_laughing_).
I may sing false--the song is true!
LAFFEMAS (_to Scaramouche_).
It's your turn now.
SCARAMOUCHE (_bowing_).
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._
TAILLEBRAS (_with emphasis_).
As for me,
Sir, I am Taillebras. From Thibet, sir,
I come; I've punished the great Khan, I've captured
The Mogul--
LAFFEMAS.
Choose something else--
[_Low to Saverny, who stands beside him._
A beauty,
Eh, this Marion!
TAILLEBRAS.
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."
LAFFEMAS.
Good!
[_To Saverny._] Listen, the fine verses! "Bradamante"
By Garnier; what a poet!
[_To Marion._] 'Tis your turn,
My beauty. First, your name.
MARION (_trembling_).
I am Chimène!
LAFFEMAS.
Indeed! Chimène? Then you must have a lover.
He has killed a man in duel--
MARION (_terrified_).
Oh, heaven!
LAFFEMAS (_maliciously_).
I've a good memory. If one escapes--
MARION (_aside_).
Great heaven!
LAFFEMAS.
Come! Now let us hear your scene
MARION (_half turned toward Didier_).
"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._
LAFFEMAS.
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._
MARION (_low to Didier, with anguish_).
For God's sake, let me stay with you!
LAFFEMAS (_smiling_).
Come sit by me, I say!
[_Didier repulses Marion, who staggers terrified to the bench where
Laffemas sits, and falls upon it._
MARION (_aside_).
'Tis horrible!
LAFFEMAS (_smiling at Marion, with an air of reproach_).
At last!
[_To Didier._] Now, sir, your turn. What is your name?
DIDIER (_with gravity_).
My name is Didier!
MARION, LAFFEMAS, SAVERNY.
Didier!
DIDIER (_to Laffemas, who laughs triumphantly_).
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.
MARION (_running to him_).
Didier!
DIDIER (_with a freezing look_).
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.
LAFFEMAS (_with concentrated rage, trying to laugh_).
You are not a comedian, it would seem!
DIDIER.
It's you who played the comedy.
LAFFEMAS.
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.
MARION.
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._
LAFFEMAS (_to_ Marquis de Nangis).
Marquis, I claim your aid. Good news!
Lend me your escort. The murderer escaped
Our vigilance, but we've recaptured him.
MARION (_throwing herself at Laffemas's feet_).
Oh, pity for him!
LAFFEMAS (_with gallantry_).
At my feet, madame!
'Tis I should kneel at yours.
MARION (_on her knees, clasping her hands_).
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!
LAFFEMAS (_smiling_).
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.
DIDIER (_to Marion_).
Rise! [_Marion rises, trembling._
You lie! it was a duel.
LAFFEMAS.
Sir!
DIDIER.
I say, you lie!
LAFFEMAS.
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--
SAVERNY (_taking a step forward_).
The man
You think is dead is living. I am he!
[_General astonishment._
LAFFEMAS (_starting_).
Gaspard de Saverny! A miracle!
There is his coffin.
SAVERNY (_tearing off his false mustache, his plaster, and black wig_).
But he is not dead!
Who recognizes me?
MARQUIS DE NANGIS (_as if awakening from a dream, starts, and with
a great cry throws himself into his nephew's arms_).
Gaspard! My nephew!
It is my child! [_They remain locked in each other's arms._
MARION (_falling upon her knees and lifting her eyes to heaven_).
Didier is saved! Praise God!
DIDIER (_coldly, to Saverny_).
What is the use? I wished to die.
MARION (_still on her knees_).
Kind God,
You have protected him!
DIDIER (_continuing, without listening to her_).
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!
MARION.
What does he say? You must live--
LAFFEMAS.
All's not over.
Is it certain that this is the Marquis?
MARION.
It is.
LAFFEMAS.
We must have proof of it at once.
MARION (_indicating Marquis de Nangis, who is still holding Saverny
in his arms_).
Look at that old man, how he smiles and weeps!
LAFFEMAS.
Is that Gaspard de Saverny?
MARION.
What heart
Can question such a close embrace?
MARQUIS DE NANGIS (_turning around_).
You ask
If it is he--Gaspard, my son, my soul?
[_To Marion._] Did he not ask if it was he, madame?
LAFFEMAS (_to Marquis de Nangis_).
Then you affirm that this man is your nephew?
He is Gaspard de Saverny?
MARQUIS DE NANGIS (_with intensity_).
I do!
LAFFEMAS.
According to the law I do arrest
Gaspard de Saverny, in the King's name.
Your sword!
[_Surprise and consternation among the characters._
MARQUIS DE NANGIS.
My son!
MARION.
Oh, Heaven!
DIDIER.
Another head!
Yes, two were needed. 'Tis the least, to bring
This Roman Cæsar one head in each hand.
MARQUIS DE NANGIS.
Speak! By what right--
LAFFEMAS.
Ask my lord cardinal.
All who survive a duel fall beneath
The ordinance. Give me your sword.
DIDIER (_looking at Saverny_).
Rash man!
SAVERNY (_drawing his sword and presenting it to Laffemas_).
'Tis here!
MARQUIS DE NANGIS (_stopping him_).
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._
LAFFEMAS.
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--
DIDIER.
Wretch!
LAFFEMAS (_bowing to Marquis de Nangis_).
So I consent. You can return the favor
By loaning me your guard and prison, sir.
MARQUIS DE NANGIS (_to his Guards_).
Not so! Your sires were vassals to my sires.
I forbid any one to stir a step.
LAFFEMAS (_with voice of thunder_).
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._
MARION.
All is lost!
[_To Laffemas._] Have pity!
If in your heart--
LAFFEMAS (_low to Marion_).
If you will come to-night,
I'll tell you something--
MARION (_aside_).
What is it he wants?
His smiles are terrible. He has a gloomy,
Treacherous soul.
[_Turning with desperation to Didier._
Didier!
DIDIER (_coldly_).
Farewell, madame!
MARION (_shuddering at the tone of his voice_).
What have I done? Oh, miserable woman!
[_She sinks upon the bank._
DIDIER.
Miserable! Yes!
SAVERNY (_embraces Marquis de Nangis, then turns to Laffemas_).
Is your pay doubled
When you bring two heads?
LACKEY (_entering, to Marquis de Nangis_).
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.
LAFFEMAS.
Come back one month from now.
[_The Guards lead off Didier and Saverny._
_ACT IV_
THE KING
Scene.--_Chambord. The guard-room in the Castle of Chambord_
SCENE 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_
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
Condemned?
MARQUIS DE NANGIS.
Condemned!
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
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.
MARQUIS DE NANGIS.
I was his comrade.
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
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.
MARQUIS DE NANGIS.
Laugh at my mourning?
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
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.
MARQUIS DE NANGIS (_grasping his hand_).
May God repay you!
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE (_to a Musketeer who walks up and down in front of
a small gilt door_).
Monsieur, pray,
What does the King?
MUSKETEER.
He's working, my lord duke!
[_Lowering his voice._
A man in black is with him.
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE (_aside_).
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._
SCENE II
_Marion, the Guards_
HALBERDIER (_to Marion_).
Madame, you cannot enter!
MARION (_advancing_).
Sir!
HALBERDIER (_placing his halberd against the door_).
I say,
No entrance!
MARION (_with contempt_).
Here you turn your lance against
A woman. Elsewhere, 'tis in her defense.
MUSKETEER (_laughing, to Halberdier_).
Well said!
MARION (_firmly_).
I must immediately have audience
With the Duke de Bellegarde.
HALBERDIER (_lowering his halberd, aside_).
Ah, these gallants!
MUSKETEER.
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.
MUSKETEER (_making sign to Halberdier to keep still_).
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._
SCENE III
_Marion, Laffemas: gesture of surprise from both. Marion turns
away from him with horror_
LAFFEMAS (_low, advancing slowly toward Marion_).
You!
What is your errand here?
MARION.
What's yours?
LAFFEMAS (_unrolls the parchment and spreads it out before her eyes_).
Signed by
The King!
MARION (_glances at it, then buries her face in her hands_).
Good God!
LAFFEMAS (_speaking in her ear_).
Will you?
[_Marion shivers and looks him in the face; he fixes his eyes on hers:
lowering his voice._
Wilt thou?
MARION (_pushing him away_).
Away!
Foul tempter!
LAFFEMAS (_straightening himself up, sneeringly_).
You will not!
MARION.
I have no fear!
The King can pardon: 'tis the King who reigns.
LAFFEMAS.
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._
SCENE IV
Marion, Duke de Bellegarde
MARION (_going toward Duke de Bellegarde_).
Here you are captain, my lord duke.
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
'Tis you,
My beauty! [_Bowing._
Speak! What does my queen desire?
MARION.
To see the King.
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
When?
MARION.
Now!
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
This is short notice!
Why?
MARION.
For something!
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE (_bursting into a laugh_).
We will send for him!
How she goes on!
MARION.
Then you refuse me?
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
Nay!
Am I not yours? Have we refused each other
Anything?
MARION.
That's very well, my lord!
When shall I see the King?
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
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.
MARION.
I don't laugh now.
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
Indeed!
I think she's weeping! Marion! You?
MARION (_wiping her eyes: with firm tone_).
My lord,
I want to see his Majesty at once!
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
For what?
MARION.
Just Heaven! For--
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
Is it against
The Cardinal?
MARION.
It is!
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE (_opening the gallery for her_).
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._
SCENE V
_The same. Duke de Beaupréau, Laffemas, Viscount de Rohan, Count
de Charnacé, Abbé de Gondi, and other courtiers_
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE (_to Duke de Beaupréau_).
Good-morning, Duke!
DUKE DE BEAUPRÉAU.
Good-morning!
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
Any news?
DUKE DE BEAUPRÉAU.
There's talk of a new cardinal.
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
Which one?
The Archbishop of Arle?
DUKE DE BEAUPRÉAU.
No! Bishop of Autun.
All Paris thinks he has obtained the hat.
ABBÉ DE GONDI.
'Tis his by right. He was commander of
Artillery at the siege of La Rochelle.
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
That's true!
L'ANGELY.
The Holy See has my approval.
This one will be a cardinal according
To the canons.
ABBÉ DE GONDI (_laughing_).
L'Angely--the fool!
L'ANGELY (_bowing_).
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._
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE (_to_ L'Angely).
Fool, who's that man
Who wears the ermine cloak?
L'ANGELY.
Whom every one
Is paying court to?
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
Yes. I know him not.
Is he a follower of Monsieur d'Orleans?
L'ANGELY.
They would not fawn on him so much.
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE (_watching Laffemas, who struts about_).
What airs!
As if he were grandee of Spain!
L'ANGELY (_low_).
It is
Sir Laffemas, intendant of Champagne,
Lieutenant-Criminal--
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE (_low_).
Infernal, say!
He's called the Cardinal's executioner?
L'ANGELY (_still low_).
The same.
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
That man at Court!
L'ANGELY.
Why not? One extra
Tiger-cat in the menagerie!
Shall I present him?
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE (_haughtily_).
Peace, you fool!
L'ANGELY.
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._
LAFFEMAS (_bowing_).
Sir Duke!
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
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!
L'ANGELY.
What?
VISCOUNT DE ROHAN.
That Marion is here.
L'ANGELY.
Here--Marion?
VISCOUNT DE ROHAN.
We were just saying this:
"Chaste Louis's guest is Marion." How rich!
L'ANGELY.
A charming piece of wit, indeed, my lord!
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE (_to Count de Charnacé_).
Sir wolf-hunter, have you found any prey?
Is hunting good?
COUNT DE CHARNACÉ
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?
L'ANGELY.
Nothing,
My lord, except two men will soon be hanged
At Beaugency for dueling.
ABBÉ DE GONDI.
So little,
Bah! [_The small gilt door is opened._
AN USHER.
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._
SCENE VI
_The same. The King. 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_
THE KING.
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!
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE (_advancing with three profound salutations_).
The time for sleeping, sire, is past.
THE KING (_eagerly_).
True, Duke! The State is rushing to destruction
With giant strides!
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
'Tis guided by a hand
Both strong and wise.
THE KING.
He bears a heavy burden,
Our good lord cardinal!
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
Sire!
THE KING.
He is old.
I ought to spare him, but I have enough
To do with living, without reigning!
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
Sire,
The Cardinal's not old!
THE KING.
Pray, tell me frankly--
No one is watching or is listening here--
What do you think of him?
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
Of whom, sire?
THE KING.
Him!
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
His Eminence?
THE KING.
Of course!
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
My dazzled eyes
Can hardly fix themselves--
THE KING.
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.
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
Entirely frank, sire?
THE KING.
Yes, entirely frank.
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE (_boldly_).
Well, then, I think him a great man!
THE KING.
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!
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
Ah!
THE KING.
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.
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
Ah, sire,
He lets you keep a vivary within
The Louvre. You have your share.
THE KING.
Then he intrigues
With Denmark.
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
But he let you fix the marc
Among the jewelers.
THE KING (_whose ill-humor increases_).
He fights with Rome!
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
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.
THE KING.
All the treaties he
Concludes in secret.
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
Yes; but then you have
Your hunting mansion at Planchette.
THE KING.
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?
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
Those who have the king's evil come.
[_The anger of The King increases._
THE KING.
He means to give my order to his brother!
I will not have it! I rebel.
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
But, sire--
THE KING.
I am disgusted with his people!
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
Sire!
THE KING.
His niece, Combalet, leads a model life.
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
'Tis slander, sire!
THE KING.
Two hundred foot-guards!
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
But
Only a hundred horse-guards!
THE KING.
What a shame!
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
He saves France, sire.
THE KING.
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.
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
Treats he his own
More kindly? Did he spare Saint Preuil?
THE KING.
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!
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
But he thinks
He does your will. He's faithful. He is firm
And sure.
THE KING.
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 the king, already sick,
Grows worse. Without is cardinal, within
Is cardinal; no king is anywhere!
He torments Austria, lets any one
Capture my vessels in Gascony's Bay.
Allies me with Gustavus Adolphus!
What more? I do not know. He's everywhere:
As if he were soul of the king, he fills
My kingdom, and my family, and me.
I am much to be pitied. [Going to window.
Always rain.
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
Your Majesty is suffering?
THE KING.
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._
SCENE VII
_The same. Marion, Marquis de Nangis. 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_
MARQUIS DE NANGIS.
Justice, my sire.
THE KING.
Against whom? Speak!
MARQUIS DE NANGIS.
Against a cruel tyrant--against Armand,
Called here the cardinal-minister!
MARION.
Mercy,
My sire!
THE KING.
For whom?
MARION.
For Didier!
MARQUIS DE NANGIS.
And for him,
Gaspard de Saverny!
THE KING.
I've heard those names.
MARQUIS DE NANGIS.
Justice and mercy, sire!
THE KING.
What title?
MARQUIS DE NANGIS.
Sire,
I am uncle of one.
THE KING.
And you?
MARION.
I'm sister
Unto the other!
THE KING.
Why do you come here,
Sister and uncle?
MARQUIS DE NANGIS (_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--
MARION (_low to Marquis de Nangis_).
Oh, speak for both,
My lord!
MARQUIS DE NANGIS (_continuing_).
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--
THE KING.
Yes, I know the story.
Well, what have you to say?
MARQUIS DE NANGIS.
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 KING.
The Cardinal's my friend! Who loves me must
Love him!
MARQUIS DE NANGIS.
Sire!
THE KING.
Silence! He's my second self.
MARQUIS DE NANGIS.
Sire!
THE KING.
Bring no more such griefs to trouble me!
[_Showing his hair, which is beginning to turn gray._
Petitioners like you make these gray hairs!
MARQUIS DE NANGIS.
An old man, sire; a woman, sire, who weeps!
A word from you is life or death for us!
THE KING.
What do you ask?
MARQUIS DE NANGIS.
Pardon for my Gaspard!
MARION.
Pardon for Didier!
THE KING.
Pardons of a king
Are often thefts from justice!
MARION.
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!
THE KING.
Who is this woman?
MARION.
She's a sister, sire,
Who trembles at your feet. You owe something
Unto your people!
THE KING.
Yes! I owe myself
To them, and dueling does grievous harm.
MARION.
You should have pity!
THE KING.
And obedience, too!
MARQUIS DE NANGIS.
Two boys of twenty years! Think of it well!
Their years together are but half of mine!
MARION.
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!
THE KING.
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?
MARQUIS DE NANGIS.
I'm better, sire,
Than any duke and peer, created for mere show!
I'm Breton baron of four baronies.
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE (_aside_).
His pride is great, and here, unfortunate!
THE KING.
Good! To your manors carry back your rights,
And leave us ours within our own domain.
We are justiciary!
MARQUIS DE NANGIS (_shuddering_).
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._
THE KING (_to Duke de Bellegarde, wiping his eyes and watching the
retreating figure of Marquis de Nangis_).
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._
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE (_low to Marion_).
My child,
You can't remain here, crouching by this door;
What are you doing like a statue there?
Get up and go away!
MARION.
I'm waiting here
For them to kill me!
L'ANGELY (_low to Duke de Bellegarde_).
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._
SCENE VIII
The King, L'Angely
THE KING (_sighing deeply_).
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._
L'ANGELY.
Life is a bitter thing, your Majesty.
THE KING.
Alas!
L'ANGELY.
Man is a breath ephemeral!
THE KING.
A breath, and nothing more!
L'ANGELY.
Unfortunate
Is any one who is both man and king.
Is it not true?
THE KING.
A double burden--yes.
L'ANGELY.
And better far than life, sire, is the tomb,
If but its gloom is deep enough!
THE KING.
I've thought
That always!
L'ANGELY.
To be dead or unborn is
The only happiness. Yes, man's condemned!
THE KING.
You give me pleasure when you talk like this!
[_A silence._
L'ANGELY.
Once in the tomb, think you one e'er gets out?
THE KING (_whose sadness has increased with the Fool's words_).
We'll know that later. I wish I were there!
[_Silence._
Fool, I'm unhappy! Do you comprehend?
L'ANGELY.
I see it in your face so thin and worn,
And in your mourning--
THE KING.
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?
L'ANGELY.
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._
THE KING (_thinking, growing more and more sad_).
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?
L'ANGELY.
I have often had that thought
Myself!
THE KING.
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?
L'ANGELY.
Your life
Is full of woe.
THE KING.
How will you comfort me?
L'ANGELY.
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 KING.
The falconer! A god!
L'ANGELY.
Well! there are two
Who are at point of death!
THE KING.
Two falconers?
L'ANGELY.
Yes!
THE KING.
Who are they?
L'ANGELY.
Two famous ones!
THE KING.
But who?
L'ANGELY.
Those two young men whose lives were begged of you!
THE KING.
Gaspard and Didier?
L'ANGELY.
Yes; they are the last.
THE KING.
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?
L'ANGELY.
One declared
That hawks upon the wing were not as swift
As falcons.
THE KING.
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?
L'ANGELY.
He does!
THE KING (_after pausing and reflecting_).
Then they shall die!
L'ANGELY.
They shall!
THE KING.
Poor falconry!
L'ANGELY (_going to window_).
Sire, look!
THE KING (_turns around suddenly_).
At what?
L'ANGELY.
Just look, I beg of you!
THE KING (_rising and going to the window_).
What is it?
L'ANGELY (_indicating something outside_).
They have changed the sentinel!
THE KING.
Well, is that all?
L'ANGELY.
Who is that fellow with
The yellow lace?
THE KING.
No one--the corporal!
L'ANGELY.
He puts a new man there. What says he, low?
THE KING.
The password! Fool! What are you driving at?
L'ANGELY.
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.
THE KING.
No, it is justice. Ah,
Two falconers! It is a frightful loss!
Still, they must die.
L'ANGELY.
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!
THE KING.
Yes, life is dark; the tomb alone is bright.
If you were not at hand to cheer me up--
L'ANGELY.
Alas! I came to-day to say farewell.
THE KING.
What's that?
L'ANGELY.
I leave you!
THE KING.
You're a crazy fool!
Death, only, frees from royal service.
L'ANGELY.
Well,
I am about to die!
THE KING.
Have you gone mad?
L'ANGELY.
You have condemned me--you, the King of France!
THE KING.
If you are joking, fool, explain yourself.
L'ANGELY.
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._
THE KING (_takes it and examines it_).
Indeed, a sword!
Where does it come from, friend?
L'ANGELY.
We're noble, sire!
The guilty are not pardoned. I am one.
THE KING (_somber and stern_).
Good night, then! Let me kiss your neck, poor fool,
Before they cut it off. [_Embraces L'Angely._
L'ANGELY (_aside_).
He's in dead earnest!
THE KING (_after a pause_).
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.
L'ANGELY (_aside_).
The devil!
[_The King continues to pace the floor and appears violently
agitated._
THE KING.
And so, you think you'll have to hang, poor fool!
L'ANGELY (_aside_).
He means it! God! I feel cold perspiration
Starting upon my brow.
[_Aloud._] Unless a word
From you--
THE KING.
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!
L'ANGELY.
The errand is a pleasant one!
[_The King continues to walk rapidly, speaking to L'Angely now and
then._
THE KING.
What triumph
For my lord cardinal--my fool!
[_Folding his arms._
Think you
I could be master if I wished to be?
L'ANGELY.
Montaigne would say, "Who knows?" And Rabelais,
"Perhaps."
THE KING (_with gesture of determination_).
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.
L'ANGELY.
All three?
THE KING.
Yes.
L'ANGELY (_running to Marion_).
Come, madame,
Come, kneel, and thank the King.
MARION (_falling on her knees_).
We have the pardon?
L'ANGELY.
Yes! It was I--
MARION.
Whose knees must I embrace--
His Majesty's or yours?
THE KING (_astonished, examining Marion: aside_).
What does this mean?
Is this a trap?
L'ANGELY (_giving parchment to Marion_).
Here is the pardon. Take it!
[_Marion kisses it, and puts it in her bosom._
THE KING (_aside_).
Have I been duped?
[_To Marion._] One instant! Give it back!
MARION.
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._
L'ANGELY (_low to Marion_).
Good! Keep it, and be firm!
His Majesty won't take it, there!
THE KING (_to Marion_).
Give it
To me!
MARION.
Take it, my sire!
THE KING (_casting down his eyes_).
Who is this siren?
L'ANGELY (_low to Marion_).
He wouldn't touch the corset of the Queen!
THE KING (_after a moment's hesitation, dismisses Marion with
a gesture without looking at her_).
Well, go!
MARION (_bowing profoundly to The King_).
I'll fly to save the prisoners! [_Exits._
L'ANGELY (_to The King_).
She's sister to Didier, the falconer.
THE KING.
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.
L'ANGELY.
Yes, do it! Every time they grant a pardon,
Kings lift a dreary weight from off their hearts.
THE KING.
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.
L'ANGELY.
One can, sometimes,
Be kingly by mistake.
_ACT V_
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_
SCENE I
_Some Workmen. They are pulling down a corner of the back wall on the
left. The demolition is almost completed_
FIRST WORKMAN (_working with his pickax_).
It's very hard!
SECOND WORKMAN (_working_).
Deuce take this heavy wall we're pulling down!
THIRD WORKMAN (_working_).
Saw you the scaffold, Peter?
FIRST WORKMAN.
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.
THIRD WORKMAN.
Bah!
Is it a house?
FIRST WORKMAN (_with affirmative gesture_).
With great long curtains. Yes.
It takes some four and twenty men on foot
To carry it.
SECOND WORKMAN.
I saw the great machine,
One night when it was very dark. It looked
Just like Leviathan in shadow-land.
THIRD WORKMAN.
What does he come here with his sergeants for?
FIRST WORKMAN.
To see the execution of those two young men.
He's sick. He needs to be amused.
SECOND WORKMAN.
To work!
[_They resume work; the wall is about torn down._
Saw you the scaffold, all in black? That comes
Of being noble!
FIRST WORKMAN.
They have everything.
SECOND WORKMAN.
I wonder
If they would build a black scaffold for us.
FIRST WORKMAN.
What have those young men done that they should die?
Hein? Do you understand, Maurice?
THIRD WORKMAN.
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._
SCENE II
Marion, Laffemas
MARION (_showing a parchment to The Turnkey_).
Order of the King!
THE TURNKEY.
You can't
Enter, madame.
MARION.
What!
LAFFEMAS (_presenting a paper to The Turnkey_).
Signed, the Cardinal!
THE TURNKEY.
Enter.
[_When about to enter, Laffemas turns, looks at Marion a moment,
then approaches her. The Turnkey shuts the door._
LAFFEMAS (_to Marion_).
You here? This questionable place!
MARION.
I am. [_Triumphantly showing the parchment._
I have the pardon!
LAFFEMAS (_showing his_).
Yes? I have
The revocation!
MARION (_with a cry of horror_).
Mine was yesterday--
The morning!
LAFFEMAS.
Mine, last night!
MARION (_with hands over her eyes_).
My God! No hope!
LAFFEMAS.
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.
MARION.
The King was moved with pity for their fate!
LAFFEMAS.
What can the King against the Cardinal?
MARION.
Oh, Didier, our last hope's extinguished now!
LAFFEMAS (_low_).
Not--not the last!
MARION.
Just Heaven!
LAFFEMAS (_drawing near to her_).
There is here
A man whom one short word from you could make
Happier than any king, and mightier too!
MARION.
Away!
LAFFEMAS.
Is that your answer?
MARION (_haughtily_).
I beg you!
LAFFEMAS.
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--
MARION (_without looking at him, turning to the small door,
her hands clasped_).
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.
LAFFEMAS.
Well, love him!
MARION.
Ah, he pushes me from crime
To vice! Oh, monster, go! Let me keep pure!
LAFFEMAS.
There is but one thing left for me to do!
MARION.
What is it?
LAFFEMAS.
I can show you--let you see.
It is to-night.
MARION (_trembling all over_).
Oh, heaven! this night!
LAFFEMAS.
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._
MARION.
How could you manage their escape?
LAFFEMAS (_low_).
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!
MARION (_wringing her hands_).
You'll save him?
LAFFEMAS.
Yes.
[_Low._] To tell you in this place--
The walls have echoes--elsewhere.
MARION (_with despair_).
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._
SCENE III
_Didier, Saverny. 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_
SAVERNY (_to The Jailer, who opens the door for him_).
Thank you.
The air is very good!
THE JAILER (_low, and drawing him aside_).
My lord, two words with you.
SAVERNY.
Four, if you like.
THE JAILER (_lowering his voice still more_).
Will you escape?
SAVERNY (_eagerly_).
Speak! How?
THE JAILER.
That's my affair.
SAVERNY.
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?
THE JAILER.
To-night, as soon as it is dark.
SAVERNY.
My faith!
I shall be charmed to leave these quarters. Whence
Comes this assistance?
THE JAILER.
Marquis de Nangis.
SAVERNY.
My good old uncle!
[_To The Jailer._] 'Tis for both, I hope!
THE JAILER.
I can save only one!
SAVERNY.
For twice as much?
THE JAILER.
I can save only one!
SAVERNY (_tossing his head_).
Just one?
[_Low to The Jailer._] Then listen;
Good jailer, that's the one to save!
[_Indicating Didier._
THE JAILER.
You jest!
SAVERNY.
I do not! He's the one!
THE JAILER.
What an idea!
Your uncle wants to save you, not save him.
SAVERNY.
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!
REGISTRAR (_saluting the prisoners_).
The royal councilor of the Great Chamber
Is close at hand.
[_Salutes them again and exits._
SAVERNY.
'Tis well! [_Laughing._
Annoying luck!
Twenty years old--September--and to die
Before October!
DIDIER (_motionless at front of stage, holding the portrait in his
hand, and as if absorbed in a deep study of it_).
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?
SAVERNY (_returning from back of court_).
The swallows fly quite low;
'Twill rain to-night.
DIDIER (_without hearing him_).
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?
SAVERNY.
Forever Marion! You've strange ideas
About her!
DIDIER (_without heeding him, picks up the picture and fixes his eyes
upon it_).
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.
SAVERNY.
Alas! poor friend.
We'll talk of death.
[_Aside._] It comforts him, although
I find it rather sad.
DIDIER.
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!
SAVERNY (_taking hold of his arm_).
Death, friend!
DIDIER (_joyfully_).
Oh, yes!
SAVERNY.
Let's talk about it.
DIDIER.
Yes!
SAVERNY.
What is it, after all?
DIDIER.
Did you sleep well
Last night?
SAVERNY.
No, badly, for my bed was hard.
DIDIER.
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.
SAVERNY.
Good! My fears are gone!
But to be hanged! That certainly is bad.
DIDIER.
You're getting death; don't be an egotist.
SAVERNY.
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!
DIDIER.
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?
SAVERNY.
You're a philosopher.
DIDIER.
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._
SCENE IV
_The same. Councilor of the Great Chamber, in full dress, The
Jailer, Guards_
THE JAILER (_announcing_).
The Councilor of the King!
COUNCILOR (_saluting Saverny and Didier in turn_).
My mission's painful and the law severe--
SAVERNY.
I understand: there is no hope! Speak, sir!
COUNCILOR (_unfolds a parchment and reads_).
"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."
SAVERNY (_joyfully_).
God be praised!
COUNCILOR (_saluting them once more_).
You are to hold yourselves in readiness;
It will take place to-day.
[_He salutes and prepares to exit._
DIDIER (_who has remained in the same thoughtful attitude, to Saverny_).
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.
COUNCILOR (_coming back, to Didier_).
'Tis well to occupy yourselves with such
Great thoughts.
DIDIER (_gently_).
Please do not interrupt me, sir.
SAVERNY (_gayly to Didier_).
No gallows!
DIDIER.
Order of the fête is changed,
I know. The Cardinal travels with his headsman,
And he must be employed; the ax will rust.
SAVERNY.
You're cool about it, yet the stake is great.
[_To The Councilor._] Thank you for such good news.
COUNCILOR.
I wish 'twere better!
Good sir, my zeal--
SAVERNY.
Excuse me. What's the hour?
COUNCILOR.
At nine o'clock to-night.
DIDIER.
I hope the sky
Will be as dark as is my soul.
SAVERNY.
The place?
COUNCILOR (_indicating the neighboring court_).
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._
DIDIER (_solemnly, after a pause_).
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._
SAVERNY.
What is that noise?
DIDIER.
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._
SAVERNY.
The hour is striking.
[_A third bell._
DIDIER.
Yes, the hour!
[_A fourth bell._
SAVERNY.
In chapel!
[_Four more bells._
DIDIER.
It is a voice that calls us, just the same.
SAVERNY.
Another hour!
[_He leans his elbows on the stone table and drops his head on his
hands. The Guard is changed._
DIDIER.
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._
SCENE 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)]
_The same._ Marion, The Jailer
THE JAILER (_to Marion)._
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._
MARION (_advances with tottering steps as if absorbed in some
desperate thought. Every now and then she draws her hand across
her face as if to rub off something_).
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!
DIDIER (_roused with a start_).
Here, Marion! My God!
[_Coldly._] 'Tis you?
MARION.
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._
DIDIER.
Why do you weep?
MARION.
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.
DIDIER.
Madame--
MARION (_rises, without hearing him, and gets the bundle and brings
it to him_).
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.
DIDIER.
'Tis well!
MARION.
Quick! hurry! Didier, you are saved!
To be free! Didier, how I love you--God!
DIDIER.
You say a street where the wall ends?
MARION.
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!
DIDIER (_pushing the clothes aside with his foot_).
There is no hurry.
MARION.
Death waits at the door.
Fly! Didier! Since I've come!
DIDIER.
Why did you come?
MARION.
To save you! What a question to ask me!
Why such a freezing tone?
DIDIER (_with a sad smile_).
Ah, well! We men
Are often senseless.
MARION.
We are losing time.
The horses wait. What you have in your mind,
You'll tell me afterward. We must fly now.
DIDIER.
Who is that man there watching us?
MARION.
The jailer.
He's safe; I bribed him, as I did the guard.
Do you suspect them? You have such an air.
DIDIER.
It's nothing. We're so easily deceived.
MARION.
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!
DIDIER (_indicating Saverny, asleep_).
Tell me which one of us you want to save.
MARION (_overcome for a moment_).
[_Aside._] Gaspard is generous: he would not tell.
[_Aloud._] Does Didier speak to his beloved thus?
My Didier, what have you against me?
DIDIER.
Naught.
Lift up your face and look me in the eyes.
[_Marion, trembling, fixes her eyes on him._
It is a perfect likeness! Yes.
MARION.
My love,
I worship you, but come!
DIDIER.
Don't turn away!
[_He looks at her fixedly._
MARION (_terrified at his look_).
[_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."
DIDIER.
"Marie"
Or "Marion"?
MARION (_falls annihilated at his feet_).
Didier, be merciful!
DIDIER (_with terrible tone_).
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?
MARION.
Who told you?
DIDIER.
No one; but I understand.
MARION.
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?
DIDIER (_folding his arms_).
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!
MARION.
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.
DIDIER.
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.
MARION.
O God!
DIDIER.
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.
MARION (_turning away with a cry_).
Oh, shame!
DIDIER.
Did you not have it painted just for me?
[_He laughs, and dashes the locket to the ground._
MARION.
Will some one, out of pity, kill me now?
THE JAILER.
Time's passing.
MARION.
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!
DIDIER.
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 JAILER.
The hour is passing.
MARION.
O my Didier, fly!
DIDIER.
I will not!
MARION.
Just for pity!
DIDIER.
Pity! why?
MARION.
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--
DIDIER.
A wife! [_Cannon sounds in the distance._
This makes of you a widow, then!
MARION.
Didier!
THE JAILER.
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._
MARION.
Ah, Christ!
SCENE VII
_The same. Councilor, Executioner, Populace, Soldiers_
COUNCILOR.
I'm ready,
Gentlemen!
MARION (_to Didier_).
I told you that he'd come!
DIDIER (_to Councilor_).
We're ready also.
COUNCILOR.
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!
SAVERNY (_rubbing his eyes_).
Ah, how could you
Break in on such a pleasant sleep!
DIDIER.
'Tis only
Interrupted, friend!
SAVERNY (_half awake: sees Marion and salutes her_).
Oh, I was dreaming
About you, my beauty!
COUNCILOR.
Have you made
Your peace with God?
SAVERNY.
I have, sir.
COUNCILOR.
It is well.
Please sign this paper!
SAVERNY (_takes the parchment, runs over it_).
'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!
COUNCILOR (_to Didier_).
Didier!
[_Didier approaches: Councilor gives pen to him._
Your name is there.
MARION (_hiding her eyes_).
The grewsome thing!
DIDIER.
I could sign nothing with intenser joy!
[_The Guards form themselves into a line to lead them away._
SAVERNY (_to some one in the crowd_).
Sir, step aside and let that young child see!
DIDIER (_to Saverny_).
My brother, 'tis for me you suffer death;
Let us embrace each other! [_He embraces Saverny._
MARION (_running to him_).
And for me
No kisses, Didier!
DIDIER (_indicating Saverny_).
This is my friend, madame!
MARION (_clasping her hands_).
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!
DIDIER (_rushes to Marion, trembling, and bursting into tears_).
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!
MARION.
Didier!
[_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.
MARION (_suffocated with tears_).
Ah, Christ!
DIDIER.
It is your turn.
Speak now, and pardon me!
[_He kneels before her._
MARION.
Didier!
DIDIER.
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!
MARION (_inaudibly_).
Have mercy on me--God!
DIDIER.
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!
MARION (_throws herself wildly between him and the Soldiers_).
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!
DIDIER.
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.
MARION.
You shall not die! Are these men all inhuman?
You must live!
DIDIER.
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!
COUNCILOR (_to Marion_).
The Cardinal will pass by soon, madame!
You can ask pardon for him then.
MARION.
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._
DIDIER (_to the spectators_).
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._
MARION (_dragging herself up to the litter on
her knees and wringing her hands_).
In your Christ's name! In name of all your race,
Mercy for them, my lord!
A VOICE (_from the litter_).
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._
MARION (_alone, lifts herself half way up, and drags herself along by
her hands: looking around._)
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!
GUARDS (_pushing the people aside_).
Make way!
MARION (_erect and half-wild, pointing to the litter_).
Look, all of you!
It is the red man who goes by!
[_She falls senseless._
ESMERALDA
DRAMATIS PERSONÆ
Esmeralda.
Phoebus de Chateaupers.
Claude Frollo.
Quasimodo.
Fleur-de-lys.
Madame Aloise de Gondelaurier.
Diana.
Bérangère.
Viscount de Gif.
M. de Chevreuse.
M. de Morlaix.
Clopin Frouillefou.
The Town-Crier.
_Populace, Vagrants, Archers, etc._
ESMERALDA
_ACT I_
SCENE.--_The Court of Miracles. It is night. A crowd of vagrants.
Noisy dancing. Male and female beggars in different attitudes of their
profession. The King of Thune on his cask. Fires, lights, torches. In
the shadow a circle of wretched dwellings_
SCENE I
_Claude Frollo, Clopin Frouillefou, then Esmeralda, then
Quasimodo. The Vagrants_
CHORUS OF VAGRANTS.
Long live Clopin! Long live the King of Thune!
Long live the rogues of Paris.
Let us strike our blows at dusk--
The hour when all the cats are drunk.
Let us dance! Defy Pope and bull,
And let us laugh in our skins,
Whether April wets or June burns
The feathers in our caps.
Let us smell from afar
The shot of the avenging archer,
Or the bag of money which passes
On the back of the traveler.
In the light of the moon,
We will go dance with the spirits.
Long live Clopin, King of Thune!
Long live the rogues of Paris!
CLAUDE FROLLO (_apart behind a pillar in a corner of the stage. He is
covered with a long cloak which hides his priestly garb_).
In the midst of this infamous band
What matters the sigh of a soul?
I suffer! Oh, never did fiercer flame
Burn in the bowels of a volcano. [_Esmeralda enters, dancing._
CHORUS.
There she is! There she is! It is she--Esmeralda!
CLAUDE FROLLO (_aside_).
It is she! oh, yes--'tis she!
Wherefore, relentless fate,
Made you her so beautiful,
Me--so unfortunate?
[_She reaches the center of the stage. The Vagrants form an admiring
circle around her._
ESMERALDA.
An orphan am I,
Child of woe,
To you I turn
And flowers throw!
In my wild joy
Sad sighs abide;
I show a smile,
The tears I hide.
Poor girl--I dance
Where brooklets run,
As chirp the birds
My song flows on:
I am the dove
Which, hurt, must fall;
Over my cradle
Hangs death's pall.
CHORUS.
Young girl, dance on!
More gentle you make us.
Take us for family,
And play with us,
As stoops the nightingale
Unto the sea,
Teasing its waves
To ecstasy.
'Tis the young girl--
Child of woe,
When beams her eye
Grief must go.
She's like the bee
Which trembling flies
To the flower's heart,
Its Paradise.
Young girl, dance on!
More gentle you make us.
Take us for family,
And play with us!
CLAUDE FROLLO (_aside_).
Tremble, young girl--
The priest is jealous.
[_Claude attempts to draw near to Esmeralda; she turns away from him
with a kind of horror. The procession of the Pope of Fools enters.
Torches, lanterns and music. In the middle of the procession, upon a
litter surrounded with candles, Quasimodo, decked with cope and miter,
is carried._
CHORUS.
Salute him, clerks of Vasoche!
Shell-heaps, lubbers, beggars!
Salute him, all of you! He comes.
Behold the Pope of Fools!
CLAUDE FROLLO (_perceiving Quasimodo, and
starting toward him with a gesture of anger_).
Quasimodo! What a strange part to play!
Profanation! Here--Quasimodo!
QUASIMODO.
Great God! what do I hear?
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Come here, I tell you.
QUASIMODO (_jumping from the litter_).
Here I am!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Be anathematized!
QUASIMODO.
God! it is himself!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Outrageous audacity!
QUASIMODO.
Moment of terror.
CLAUDE FROLLO.
To your knees, traitor!
QUASIMODO.
Pardon me, Master!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
No! I am a priest.
[_Claude Frollo tears off Quasimodo's pontifical ornaments, and
crushes them underfoot. The Vagrants begin to murmur; they form
menacing groups around him; he looks at them angrily._
THE VAGRANTS.
He threatens us,
O comrades!
Here in this place,
Where we reign.
QUASIMODO.
What means the audacity
Of these robbers?
They menace him,
But we shall see!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Race unclean,
You menace me.
Robbers--Jews--
But we shall see!
[_The anger of The Vagrants bursts forth._
THE VAGRANTS.
Stop! stop! stop!
Down with the mar-joy!
He shall pay for it with his head;
In vain he defends himself.
QUASIMODO.
Have respect for his head.
Let every one cease,
Or I change this festival
To a bloody battle.
CLAUDE FROLLO.
It is not about his head
That Frollo is troubled.
[_Puts his hand on his heart._
There is the tempest,
There is the battle!
[_At the moment when The Vagrants' fury has reached its highest pitch,
Clopin Frouillefou appears at the back of the stage_
CLOPIN.
Who in this infamous den
Dares to attack my lord the Archdeacon,
And Quasimodo, bell-ringer
Of Notre Dame?
THE VAGRANTS (_subsiding_).
It is Clopin, our King!
CLOPIN.
Clowns! Be off!
THE VAGRANTS.
We must obey!
CLOPIN.
Leave us!
[_The Vagrants retire to their hovels. The Court of Miracles appears
deserted. Clopin approaches Claude cautiously._
SCENE II
Claude Frollo, Quasimodo, Clopin Frouillefou
CLOPIN.
What purpose brings you to this orgy?
Has your lordship any orders to give me?
You are my master in sorcery;
Speak--I will do all.
CLAUDE FROLLO (_grasping Clopin's arm excitedly, and dragging him to
the front of the stage_).
I have come to end all.
Listen!
CLOPIN.
My lord!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
I love her more than ever.
You behold me quivering with love and with anguish.
I must have her to-night.
CLOPIN.
You will see her pass by here--in a moment;
It is the way to her home.
CLAUDE FROLLO (_aside_).
Oh! Hell has hold of me!
[_Aloud._] Soon--you say?
CLOPIN.
Upon the instant!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Alone?
CLOPIN.
Alone.
CLAUDE FROLLO.
That is enough.
CLOPIN.
Will you wait?
CLAUDE FROLLO.
I wait--
Let me have her, or let me die!
CLOPIN.
Can I help you?
CLAUDE FROLLO.
No!
[_He motions to Clopin to leave him, after having thrown him his
purse. When he finds himself alone with Quasimodo, he draws him to the
front of the stage._
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Come! I need you!
QUASIMODO.
It is well!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
For a deed that is impious, frightful, awful!
QUASIMODO.
You are my lord and master!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Chains, death, the law--
We brave them all.
QUASIMODO.
Count upon me.
CLAUDE FROLLO (_recklessly_).
I mean to abduct the gypsy!
QUASIMODO.
Master, take my blood--without telling me why!
[_Upon a sign from Claude Frollo he retires up stage and leaves his
master down stage._
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Oh, Heaven! to have given one's mind to the depths,
To have tried all the crimes of sorcery,
To have fallen lower than hell itself:
A priest, at midnight, in the dark to watch for a woman!
And to reflect that in this state in which I find my soul God sees me!
Well! what does it matter?
Fate drags me on!
Its hand is too strong,
Its will be done!
I begin life over--
The priest insane
Feels hope no longer,
Knows terror is vain!
Demon, who drugs me,
Give her to me;
And I, who evoked thee,
Thy slave will be--
Receive the priest
Whose bonds are riven!
Hell with her
Will be my heaven!
Come, exquisite woman,
Your beauty I claim.
You shall own me forever--
I swear, in God's name!
Since he--since the master
By whom love was given,
Bids me choose--me, a priest,
Between passion and heaven!
QUASIMODO (_returning_).
Master, the moment is at hand!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Yes--the solemn hour:
It will decide my fate. Be silent! Hush!
_CLAUDE FROLLO and QUASIMODO._
The night is dark,
Footsteps I hear:
In shadow does not
Some one draw near?
[_They go to the back of the stage to listen._
THE WATCH (_passing behind the houses_).
Vigilance and peace!
Whoever passes here
Must ope the eye to darkness,
To silence strain the ear.
_CLAUDE FROLLO and QUASIMODO._
In shadow they come;
They make no sound:
Still let us be
While the watch goes round!
[_The voices of the watch grow fainter._
QUASIMODO.
The watch has passed!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Our terror follows it.
[_Claude Frollo and Quasimodo look anxiously at the door through
which Esmeralda must pass._
QUASIMODO.
Love inspires,
Hope renders strong,
Him who watches
While sleeps the throng.
I see her come--
Lo! she appears.
Maid divine!
Have no fears!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Love inspires,
Hope renders strong,
Him who watches
While sleeps the throng.
I see her come,
Maid divine!
Lo! she appears--
She is mine!
[_Esmeralda enters: they throw themselves upon her and try to drag her
away: she struggles._
ESMERALDA.
Help--help! To me--help!
_CLAUDE FROLLO and QUASIMODO._
Hush, young maiden--hush!
SCENE III
_Esmeralda, Quasimodo, Phoebus de Chateaupers, the archers of
the watch_
PHOEBUS (_entering at the head of a body of archers_).
In the King's name!
[_In the struggle Claude escapes. The archers seize Quasimodo._
PHOEBUS.
Arrest him! hold him close!
Be he lord or valet!
At once--we will conduct him
To the prison Chatelet.
[_The archers take Quasimodo up stage and off. Esmeralda, recovered
from her fright, approaches Phoebus with curiosity, mingled with
admiration, and draws him gently to the front of the stage._
ESMERALDA (_to Phoebus_).
Deign to tell me
Your name, sir!
I beg you to.
PHOEBUS.
Phoebus, my child--
Of the family
Of Chateaupers.
ESMERALDA.
Captain?
PHOEBUS.
Yes, my queen!
ESMERALDA.
Queen? oh, no!
PHOEBUS.
Exquisite grace!
ESMERALDA.
Phoebus! I like your name!
PHOEBUS.
Upon my soul
I have a blade
Which has, Madame,
Great havoc made.
ESMERALDA (_to Phoebus_).
A beautiful captain,
An officer grand,
With corselet of steel
And an air of command!
Often, kind sir,
Our hearts they break,
And only laugh
At the tears they make.
PHOEBUS (_aside_).
With a beautiful captain,
An officer gay,
Love hardly succeeds
In living a day.
All soldiers desire
To pluck every rose,
Joys without troubles,
Love without woes.
PHOEBUS (_to Esmeralda_).
A radiant spirit
Smiles at me
Through thine eyes.
ESMERALDA.
A beautiful captain,
An officer grand,
With corselet of steel
And an air of command!
Long watches the girl
He carelessly passed;
And the dreams he awakened
Forever may last!
PHOEBUS.
With a beautiful captain,
An officer gay,
Love hardly succeeds
In a living day!
It's like lightning which flashes--
This eager desire
Which the eyes of sweet maidens
Kindle to fire!
ESMERALDA (_standing before the Captain and admiring him_).
My lord Phoebus! Let me see you!
Let me admire you a hundred-fold!
Oh the beautiful scarf of silk--
Oh the fine scarf with fringe of gold!
[_Phoebus takes it off and offers it to her._
PHOEBUS.
Does it please you?
ESMERALDA (_taking the scarf and putting it on_).
Yes, it is beautiful!
PHOEBUS.
One moment!
[_He goes to her and tries to embrace her._
ESMERALDA (_drawing back_).
Don't, I beg you!
PHOEBUS (_insisting_).
You must kiss me!
ESMERALDA (_drawing away still more_).
No, truly!
PHOEBUS (_laughing_).
A beauty
So cruel,
So haughty,
Is charming.
ESMERALDA.
No, beautiful captain,
In vain you plead!
Can I tell how far
A kiss might lead?
PHOEBUS.
I am a captain,
Why abuse me?
I want a kiss--
Don't refuse me!
Give it me--give it, or I will take!
ESMERALDA.
No, leave me! I beg of you, for my sake.
PHOEBUS.
One kiss, one kiss--'tis nothing, you see.
ESMERALDA.
Nothing to you, but much to me!
PHOEBUS.
Look at me, dear! I am playing no part!
ESMERALDA.
Alas, but I cannot look into my heart!
PHOEBUS.
To-night love shall make an entrance there!
ESMERALDA.
Wherever love enters, soon follows despair.
[_She slips out of his arms and escapes. Phoebus, disappointed,
turns to Quasimodo, whom the archers hold bound at the back of the
stage._
PHOEBUS.
She escapes me, she resists me!
A gay adventure, verily!
I keep the worst of our two birds of prey--
The owl remains; the nightingale flew away!
[_He places himself at the head of his guard and goes out, taking
Quasimodo with him._
CHORUS OF THE WATCH.
Vigilance and peace--
Whoever passes here
Must ope the eye to darkness,
To silence strain the ear!
[_The sound grows fainter and finally ceases._
_ACT II_
Scene.--_The square of Grève. The pillory. Quasimodo is in the
pillory. Populace on the square_
SCENE I
CHORUS.
He abducted a girl--
What! is it possible?
Hark! how they abuse him!
Do you hear, my friends?
Quasimodo has been hunting on Cupid's domain!
A WOMAN OF THE PEOPLE.
He will pass through my street
On his return from the pillory;
And it is Pierrat Forterne
Who will give us the signal.
TOWN-CRIER.
In the King's name, whom God protect!
The man you see here, will be put
Under a strong guard,
In the pillory for one hour.
CHORUS.
Down with him! Down with him!
The hunchback, the deaf, the one-eyed creature
This Barabbas!
I believe, s'death! he's looking at us.
Down with the sorcerer!
He makes faces, he kicks;
He makes dogs bark in the streets.
Punish the rascal well!
Double the whip and the penalty.
QUASIMODO.
Drink!
CHORUS.
Hang him!
QUASIMODO.
Drink!
CHORUS.
Be accursed!
[_Esmeralda, some instants ago, joined the crowd. She perceives
Quasimodo, first with surprise, then with pity. Suddenly, in the midst
of all the noise, she mounts the pillory, unfastens a little cup which
she carries on her belt, and gives a drink to Quasimodo._
CHORUS.
What are you doing, beautiful girl?
Leave Quasimodo alone!
When Beelzebub roasts,
Nobody gives him water.
[_She comes down. The archers unfasten Quasimodo and take him away._
CHORUS.
He abducted a woman!
Who? This dolt!
It is terrible, it is infamous,
It is too much!
Do you hear, my friends?
Quasimodo
Dared to go hunting on Cupid's domain.
SCENE II
_A magnificent drawing-room in which people are making preparations for
a festival._ Phoebus, Fleur-de-lys, Madame Aloise De Gondelaurier
MADAME ALOISE.
Phoebus, my future son-in-law, listen to me. I am fond of you.
Be master here, as if you were another self.
Look to it that every one is gay to-night.
And you, my daughter, come, get ready.
You will be the most beautiful at this festival,
Be also the most happy.
[_She goes up stage and gives orders to the servants, who continue the
preparations._
FLEUR-DE-LYS.
Sir, since the other week,
We have hardly seen you twice!
This festival brings you back.
How fortunate for us!
PHOEBUS.
Don't scold, I beg of you!
FLEUR-DE-LYS.
I understand. Phoebus forgets me!
PHOEBUS.
I swear to you--
FLEUR-DE-LYS.
Don't swear!
They only swear who deceive.
PHOEBUS.
Forget you? What folly!
Are you not the most fair?
Am I not the most loving?
PHOEBUS (_aside_).
My beautiful betrothed
Is out of sorts to-day;
Suspicion is in her mind.
What a pity!
Beauties, the lovers you treat ill
Go elsewhere.
You can do more with pleasure
Than with tears.
FLEUR-DE-LYS (_aside_).
To betray me, his betrothed,
Who belong to him!
I, who have only him to think of
And worry about!
Ah! whether he is away or here,
What grief!
Present, he scorns my joy;
Absent, my tears.
FLEUR-DE-LYS.
Phoebus, the scarf that I worked for you--
What have you done with it? I don't see it.
PHOEBUS (_troubled_).
The scarf? I don't know!
[_Aside._] Good God! unlucky chance!
FLEUR-DE-LYS.
You forgot it?
[_Aside._]To whom has he given it?
And for whom am I deserted?
MADAME ALOISE (_coming up to them and trying to reconcile them_).
Heavens! get married! Then you can quarrel.
PHOEBUS (_to Fleur-de-lys_).
No! I have not forgotten it.
I remember, I carefully folded it
And put it in an enameled box
That I had made for it.
[_Passionately to Fleur-de-lys, who still frets._
I swear I love you better
Than one could love Venus herself!
FLEUR-DE-LYS.
Don't swear! Don't swear!
They only swear who deceive!
MADAME ALOISE.
Children, don't quarrel--everything is bright to-day!
Come, my daughter, you must be seen!
The guests are coming! Everything has its turn.
[_To the servants._] Light the candles and let the ball begin.
I want everything to be beautiful, to seem as bright as day.
PHOEBUS.
Since we have Fleur-de-lys, nothing is wanting to the ball.
FLEUR-DE-LYS.
Yes, Phoebus--love is wanting! [_They go out._
PHOEBUS (_watching Fleur-de-lys go out_).
She speaks the truth: my heart is sad
Even when she is near--
The one I love, the one who fills my soul--
Alas! she is not here.
Exquisite creature,
To you my love!
Oh, dancing shadow,
My sweet-voiced dove,
Absent, yet with me
Wherever I move!
She's as bewildering and sweet
As is a nest 'mid rushes,
Sweet as a rosebud crowned with moss,
Sweet as the joy which sorrow hushes.
Humble child and virgin proud,
Soul that's pure though free!
Voluptuous ardors sink abashed
Before thy chastity.
In the dark night she comes,
An angel from the skies;
Her forehead veiled by shadows,
Flames darting from her eyes.
I see her face forever--
Now bright, now dark it seems;
But strangely--'tis in heaven
I see her in these dreams.
Exquisite creature.
To you my love!
Oh, dancing shadow,
My sweet-voiced dove,
Absent, yet with me
Wherever I move!
[_Enter several lords and ladies in gala dress._
SCENE III
_The preceding. Viscount de Gif, M. de Morlaix, M. de Chevreuse,
Madame de Gondelaurier, Fleur-de-lys, Diana, Bérangère. Ladies,
Lords_
VISCOUNT DE GIF.
My salutations, noble hostesses!
MADAME ALOISE, PHOEBUS, FLEUR-DE-LYS (_bowing_).
Good-evening, noble viscount!
Forget all care and grief
Beneath this hospitable roof.
M. DE MORLAIX.
Ladies, may God send you
Health, pleasure, and happiness!
MADAME ALOISE, PHOEBUS, FLEUR-DE-LYS.
May Heaven return with interest
All your good wishes, my lord!
M. DE CHEVREUSE.
Ladies, from the bottom of my soul
I belong to you, as I do to God!
MADAME ALOISE, PHOEBUS, FLEUR-DE-LYS.
Kind sir, may our good Lady
Come always to your aid!
[_All the guests enter._
CHORUS.
Come to the festival, come!
Page, lordship, and ladyship, come!
With flowers in your hand,
A joy-seeking band,
Come to the festival, come!
[_The guests greet and salute each other; servants circulate among the
crowd, bearing platters laden with flowers and fruits. A group of young
girls forms itself near a window to the left. Suddenly one of them calls
to the others, and motions to them to look out of the window._
DIANA (_looking out_).
Come and look! come and look, Bérangère!
BÉRANGÈRE (_looking into the street_).
Isn't she quick? Isn't she light?
DIANA.
It is a fairy or it is love.
VISCOUNT DE GIF (_laughing_).
Who dances in the public square?
M. DE CHEVREUSE (_after having looked_).
Indeed! it is the magician.
Phoebus, it is your gypsy
Whom, the other night, with valor
You saved from a robber.
VISCOUNT DE GIF.
Oh, yes, it is the gypsy.
M. DE MORLAIX.
She's as beautiful as the day.
DIANA (_to Phoebus_).
If you know her, tell her to come
And dance for us.
PHOEBUS (_looking out with an absent air_).
It might be she!
[_To M. de Gif._] Do you think she would remember?
FLEUR-DE-LYS (_who watches and listens_).
Every one remembers you.
Come, call her, tell her to come up.
[_Aside._] I will see whether to believe what I am told.
PHOEBUS (_to Fleur-de-lys_).
You wish it? Well, let us try!
[_He motions to the dancer to come up._
THE YOUNG GIRLS.
She is coming!
M. DE CHEVREUSE.
She has disappeared under the porch.
DIANA.
She has left the mob, stupefied.
VISCOUNT DE GIF.
Ladies, you will see the nymph of the streets.
FLEUR-DE-LYS (_aside_).
How quickly she obeyed that sign from Phoebus!
SCENE IV
_The same. Esmeralda. The gypsy enters timidly, confused and radiant.
Movement of admiration. The crowd falls back before her_
CHORUS.
Look! her brow is fair amid the fairest,
As a star would shine, surrounded by torches.
PHOEBUS.
Oh, creature divine!
Admiration is duty.
Of this ball she is queen,
Her crown is her beauty.
[_He turns to Messieurs de Gif and de Chevreuse._
Friends, my soul is on fire.
War and death would I face,
To hold in my arms
Such bewildering grace.
M. DE CHEVREUSE.
She is a heavenly vision,
A dream most rare and tender,
Which, floating through earth's darkness,
Radiates celestial splendor.
Born in the public streets--
Oh, blind caprice of fate,
To trail through muddy streams
A flower so immaculate!
ESMERALDA (_fixing her eyes on Phoebus in the crowd_).
It is my Phoebus, I was sure,
Just as that night I found him;
Whether in satin or in steel,
How grace and strength surround him!
Phoebus--my head is all on fire,
All burns within me, joy and pain;
My soul's consumed for lack of tears,
Just as earth yearns for rain.
FLEUR-DE-LYS.
How fair she is--yes, I was sure!
Jealous, indeed, I ought to be;
But yet to match that loveliness
How great must be my jealousy!
Alas! perhaps we both, foredoomed
To waste 'neath sorrow's harsh caress,
Full soon shall die--she in her flower,
I in my loneliness!
MADAME ALOISE.
A radiant creature, truly,
But, faith, 'tis a disgrace
That such a wretched gypsy
Should have so sweet a face.
Alas! the curious laws of fate
'Tis not for mortal mind to know:
The serpent hides his treacherous head
Beneath the fairest flowers that grow.
ALL (_together_).
She has the calmness, the delight
Of radiant skies on a warm night.
MADAME ALOISE (_to Esmeralda_).
Come, child! My beauty, come--
Come and dance us some new dance!
[_Esmeralda prepares to dance, and draws from her bosom the scarf which
Phoebus gave her._
FLEUR DE-LYS.
My scarf! Phoebus, you have deceived me!
My rival! Here she is!
[_Fleur-de-lys snatches the scarf from Esmeralda, and falls in a
swoon. All the people rush angrily toward the gypsy, who flies for
protection to Phoebus._
ALL.
Is it true that Phoebus loves her?
Infamous creature, go--depart!
To brave us thus in our own home,
You must have an audacious heart.
Oh! height of insolence! Retire!
Go back into the public street!
The common tradesmen, they can praise
The jumping of your low-born feet.
Away with her, away at once!
Out at the door! 'Tis a disgrace
For this degraded girl to lift
Her eyes to such a lofty place.
ESMERALDA.
Oh, defend me! Help! Defend me,
Save me, Phoebus, I implore thee;
For the poor forsaken gypsy,
Stands defenseless now before thee!
PHOEBUS.
I love her, and I love but her.
Yes! her defender I will be.
I'll fight for her, and my strong arm
Will bear my heart out valiantly.
If some one must be her protector,
I am the one--and doubt me not,
Her wrongs are mine, and who insults her
Must answer for it on the spot.
ALL.
What! She is what he loves! Indeed!
Away from here, away from here!
A gypsy he prefers to us;
With loving words he calms her fear.
Hush! silence! Both of you be still!
No further words of insolence.
[_To Phoebus._] From you, 'tis too much arrogance!
[_To Esmeralda._] From thee, too much impertinence!
[_Phoebus and his friends protect the gypsy, who is menaced by all
the guests of Madame De Gondelaurier. Esmeralda staggers toward the
door._
ACT III
Scene.--_The front yard of a tavern. Tavern to the right; trees to the
left. In the back a door, and a small low wall which closes in the yard.
In the distance the roof of Notre Dame with its towers and its spire. A
dark silhouette of old Paris outlines itself against the red sunset. The
river Seine is at the base of the picture_
SCENE I
_Phoebus, Viscount de Gif, M. de Morlaix, M. de Chevreuse, and
many other friends of Phoebus, seated at tables, are drinking, and
singing; afterward Don Claude Frollo_
CHORUS.
Be propitious and well-inclined,
Our Lady of Saint Lo,
To him who only water hates
Of all things here below!
PHOEBUS.
Give to the brave
In every place
A well-filled cellar,
A pretty face.
Happy fellow!
Help him hold
Dainty women,
Wine that's old.
If a beauty
Of cold mien
Be unwilling,
'Tis sometimes seen,
He jokes with her
With merry winks,
Then he sings,
Then he drinks!
The day goes by.
Or drunk or not,
He soon embraces
His Toinotte;
Then ferocious
He goes to bed
In a cannon's mouth,
And sleeps like lead!
And his soul,
Which often seems
To mix up women
With his dreams,
Is contented if the wind,
With its come and go,
Rocks the canvas of his tent
Gently to and fro!
CHORUS.
Be propitious and well inclined,
Our Lady of Saint Lo!
To him who only water hates
Of all things here below.
[_Enter Claude Frollo, who seats himself at a table at some distance
from Phoebus, and appears at first to observe nothing that passes
around him._
VISCOUNT DE GIF (_to Phoebus_).
That pretty gypsy,
What are you doing with her?
[_Claude Frollo makes a movement of attention._
PHOEBUS.
To-night, in an hour,
I have a meeting with her.
ALL.
Truly?
PHOEBUS.
Truly!
[_The agitation of Claude Frollo increases._
VISCOUNT DE GIF.
In one hour?
PHOEBUS.
In one moment!
Oh, love! supremest rapture!
To feel one heart holds two!
To own the woman that one loves--
Be slave and conqueror too!
To have her soul; to have her charms,
Her song which fills with bliss;
To see her sweet eyes wet with tears,
To dry them with a kiss.
[_While he sings, the others drink and strike their glasses._
CHORUS.
'Tis a rapture supreme,
Whatever one thinks,
To drink to one's love,
And to love what one drinks!
PHOEBUS.
Friends, the prettiest of all,
A grace divine,
Oh, wonder, ecstasy!
Friends, she is mine!
CLAUDE FROLLO (_aside_).
I bind myself to hell;
Misfortune on you dwell!
PHOEBUS.
Pleasure awaits us;
Exhaust without remorse
The better part of life,
Love's precious intercourse!
What matter if one dies,
When joy has passed away,
I'd give a century for an hour,
Eternity for a day.
[_The curfew rings; the friends of Phoebus arise from the table,
replace their swords, their caps, their cloaks, and prepare to depart._
CHORUS.
Phoebus, the hour is come;
It is the curfew-bell:
Hurry to your beloved;
God's blessing on you dwell!
PHOEBUS.
At last the hour is come;
It is the curfew-bell.
I go to my beloved;
God's blessing on her dwell!
[_The friends of Phoebus go out._
SCENE II
_Claude Frollo, Phoebus. Claude Frollo stops Phoebus as he
is about to go out_
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Captain!
PHOEBUS.
Who is this man?
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Listen to me?
PHOEBUS.
Make haste!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Do you know the name of the one
Who awaits you at the meeting to-night?
PHOEBUS.
By my life, it is my beauty!
The one I love and who loves me.
My song-bird, my dancing gypsy,
My Esmeralda, it is she!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
It is death!
PHOEBUS.
Friend! First, you are an idiot;
Second, go to the devil!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Listen!
PHOEBUS.
What do I care?
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Phoebus, if you cross the threshold of that door--
PHOEBUS.
You are mad!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
You are dead!
Tremble! One of the gypsies she!
No law protects those awful places.
There love's a masquerade for hate,
Death lies concealed in their embraces.
PHOEBUS (_laughing_).
My dear sir, readjust your cape,
Return unto your fools' retreat!
Strange they allow you to escape!
May Esculapius, Jupiter, the Devil,
Thither conduct your straying feet!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Truly they are faithless women;
Believe that the report speaks true.
Darkness strange and deep surrounds them;
Phoebus! there death waits for you!
[_Claude Frollo's earnestness seems to trouble Phoebus, who looks
at his interrogator with anxiety._
PHOEBUS.
He astounds me!
Ah, he wounds me,
In spite of myself, with doubt!
This city great
Is full of hate,
And treachery is all about!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
I astound him,
And I wound him,
In spite of himself, with doubt.
The fool, he fears,
And sees and hears
Nothing but treachery about.
Believe me--my lord, avoid the siren
Who lures you to destruction.
More than one gypsy in her rage
Has stabbed a heart palpitating with love.
[_Phoebus, whom he tries to drag along, recovers himself and pushes
him off._
PHOEBUS.
Have I become a fool?
Gypsy, Jewess, or Moor,
The love that questions what she be
Is love most base and poor.
The fateful hour is come,
Unto my love I fly!
If death be but as sweet as she,
It will be fine to die!
CLAUDE FROLLO (_holding him_).
Consider! A gypsy!
Your folly is great.
How dare you thus rashly
Trifle with fate!
Oh, dread the false creature
Who waits in the gloom,
And do not thus wildly
Rush to your doom.
[_Phoebus exits quickly, in spite of Claude Frollo. Claude
Frollo stands gloomy and undecided for a moment; then follows
Phoebus._
SCENE III
_A chamber. In the background, a window which opens on the river.
Clopin Frouillefou enters, bearing a torch. He is followed by several
men, to whom he makes a preconcerted sign, and places them in a dark
corner, in which they disappear; then he returns to the door and signals
to some one to come up. Don Claude appears_
CLOPIN (_to Claude_).
From here you can see the captain
And the gypsy without being seen.
[_He shows him an alcove behind some tapestry._
CLAUDE FROLLO.
The men are stationed and ready?
CLOPIN.
They are ready.
CLAUDE FROLLO.
The projector of this must never be known.
Silence! take this purse.
I will give you as much more afterward.
[_Claude Frollo hides himself in the alcove. Clopin exits with
caution. Esmeralda and Phoebus enter._
CLAUDE FROLLO (_aside_).
Oh, woman adored,
Destiny's prey!
She enters in beauty,
In tears goes away.
ESMERALDA (_to Phoebus_).
My lord the count,
My feelings I try to hide.
My heart is filled with shame,
And filled also with pride.
PHOEBUS (_to Esmeralda_).
My beauty, white and red,
I beg you blush no more.
Love, entering love's domain,
Leaves fear outside the door.
[_Phoebus makes Esmeralda sit down on the bench beside him._
PHOEBUS.
Dost thou love me?
ESMERALDA.
I love thee!
CLAUDE FROLLO (_aside_).
What torture!
PHOEBUS.
The adorable creature!
Upon my soul, you are divine!
ESMERALDA.
Your lips are flatterers;
You make me feel ashamed.
I beg of you, don't come so near.
CLAUDE FROLLO.
They love each other. How I envy them!
ESMERALDA.
My Phoebus! I owe my life to you.
PHOEBUS.
And I--I owe my happiness to you.
ESMERALDA.
Be good to me!
Oh, try to be
Gentle, I entreat,
To the young maid,
Who much afraid
Trembles at your feet!
PHOEBUS.
Oh, my white queen,
Goddess serene,
Sovereign of beauty,
Whose bright eyes shine
With fires divine
Of passion and of duty!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
I wait for them;
I hark to them.
How tender she,
How handsome he!
How near their doom!
Be joyous he,
And happy she,
While I prepare their tomb!
PHOEBUS.
Nymph or woman,
Saint or human,
Be my wife to me!
All day I yearn,
All night I burn,
Such is my love for thee!
ESMERALDA.
I am woman,
I am human,
And my soul afire,
Trembles ever,
Longs forever,
As throbs a lover's lyre!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Woman, wait!
My flame as great,
My blade must have its turn.
Oh! I admire
These souls afire,
And these hearts which burn!
PHOEBUS.
Be always white and red, my love,
And smile at our bright lot;
Smile sweet at love, which we've awaked,
And chastity, which we've forgot.
Your mouth is heaven--my heaven, love--
My soul would cling in bliss
Upon it, love, and pray that life
Might end with one long kiss.
ESMERALDA.
Your voice delights my ear, love;
Your smile is sweet and free.
The laughing passion in your eyes
Benumbs and conquers me.
Your wishes are my law, love,
But I can't yield to this:
My virtue and my happiness
Might die in that long kiss!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Don't let them hear your step, Death,
As near to them you creep!
My jealous hatred will keep watch
While their love falls asleep.
From out their arms so closely locked
You'll steal away their bliss!
Phoebus--your wish is granted,
You die for that long kiss!
[_Claude Frollo rushes upon Phoebus and stabs him; then he opens
the window in the back, through which he escapes. With a great cry,
Esmeralda falls upon the body of Phoebus. The men stationed at the
corner rush forward, seize her, and seem to accuse her._
_ACT IV_
Scene.--_A prison. Door in the center_
SCENE I
ESMERALDA (_alone, chained, lying upon a bed of straw_).
What! He in the tomb and I in this cell--
He a victim and I a prisoner!
I saw him fall! In truth, he's dead!
And this crime, this awful crime--
They say it is my work!
The stem of our life, while yet green, is broken.
Phoebus has gone, and he shows me the way.
Yesterday they made his grave,
To-morrow they'll make mine!
ROMANCE
Phoebus, is there nothing left,
No help given, to those bereft
In this cruel wise--
Neither filters, love, nor charms,
To assuage the soul's alarms,
Or reopen closèd eyes?
God in heaven, I adore thee!
Every hour I implore thee!
Deign to end my life to-day
Or to take my love away!
Phoebus, let us turn our wings
Toward the lights supernal,
Where all things must go at last,
Where love bides and is eternal.
On earth our bodies sleep together,
In heaven our souls will live forever!
God in heaven, I adore thee!
Every hour I implore thee!
Deign to end my life to-day
Or to take my love away!
[_The door opens. Claude Frollo enters, a lamp in his hand, his hood
pulled over his face: he comes and stands, motionless, in front of
Esmeralda._
ESMERALDA (_jumping up with terror_).
Who is this man?
CLAUDE FROLLO (_covered by his hood_).
A priest!
ESMERALDA.
A priest! How mysterious!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Are you ready?
ESMERALDA.
Ready for what?
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Ready to die.
ESMERALDA.
Yes.
CLAUDE FROLLO.
It is well.
ESMERALDA.
Will it be soon? Answer me, father!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Do you suffer so much?
ESMERALDA.
Yes, I suffer.
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Perhaps I, who shall live to-morrow,
Suffer more than you.
ESMERALDA.
You? Who, then, are you?
CLAUDE FROLLO.
The tomb lies between us!
ESMERALDA.
Your name?
CLAUDE FROLLO.
You wish to know it?
ESMERALDA.
Yes. [_He lifts his hood._
The priest!
It is the priest! O God! my feeble strength inspire!
It is indeed his brow of ice, it is his glance of fire!
'Tis he who has pursued me, remorseless, day and night;
'Twas he who killed my Phoebus, and slew my heart's delight.
Monster, from my prison, with death's cold hand on me,
I'll curse thee, till within the grave my lips shall silent be!
What have I done to thee? What is thine awful plan?
What dost thou want with me, relentless, impious man?
You hate me!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
I love you!
I love you--it is infamous!
Oh, shame to my priesthood!
This love, it is my soul;
This love, it is my blood!
At your feet I fall;
Hear my heart, which cries,
I prefer your tomb
Unto Paradise.
Pity me. I love you! Your pity I implore!
For you I've sinned. Have mercy, do not curse me more!
ESMERALDA.
He loves me! Oh, crown of horrors!
He holds me--this horrible sorcerer!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
The only living thing in me
Is my love and my anguish!
Hopeless anguish,
Wretched plight!
Alas! I love her,
Painful night!
ESMERALDA.
Awful moment,
Cruel fright!
Heaven! He loves me,
Fearful night.
CLAUDE FROLLO (_aside_).
She shudders, quivers in my arms;
The priest has won his chance at last!
By night I bore her, once, away;
Now, in the day, I'll hold her fast!
Death, which follows in my train,
Will give her back to love again!
ESMERALDA.
Pity--pity, let me go!
Phoebus is dead; he waits above.
Alas! I tremble, I'm afraid,
I shiver at your frightful love,
E'en as the bird which, tortured, dies
Beneath the vulture's cruel eyes!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Accept me, I love you! Refuse me no more!
Have pity for me, for yourself, I implore!
ESMERALDA.
Your prayer is an insult.
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Would you rather die?
ESMERALDA.
The body dies--the soul lives!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
To die is terrible!
ESMERALDA.
Hush! your impious words!
Your love makes death beautiful!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Choose! choose! Or Claude or death!
[_Claude falls at Esmeralda's feet in supplication. She repels him._
ESMERALDA.
No, murderer, I will not! Hush!
A crime is this foul love you've nursed.
Better the tomb to which I fly--
Be cursed amid the most accursed!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Tremble, for the scaffold claims you!
You know not what awful schemes
This breast of fury has engendered;
And hell abets me in my dreams.
How I love thee!
Thy hand give,
And to-morrow
Thou shalt live!
Night benumbed
With terror's breath!
Tears for me,
For thee death!
Say, "I love thee!"
Cease thy scorning;
Thy last day
Is dawning!
Ah! since in vain I supplicate,
In vain thy hate I fight,
Farewell forever! One day more,
Then comes eternal night.
ESMERALDA.
Inhuman priest.
Go! I abhor thee!
His dear blood yet
Seems dripping o'er thee,
Oh, night of horror,
Night of shame!
Enough of tears;
Death I claim!
In prison I brave thee,
In chains defy!
Be thou accursed
Eternally!
Thy passion be thy punishment!
To God my love leads me:
The gates of heaven he'll open,
But hell shall close o'er thee!
[_A jailer appears. Claude Frollo signs to him to lead out
Esmeralda. He exits while they drag forth the gypsy._
SCENE II
_The area before Notre Dame; the front of the church. The sound of bells
is heard_
QUASIMODO.
My God! I love,
Except myself,
All that's here--
The air which passes,
And which chases
Away care;
And the swallow
Who is faithful
To the old roof;
The chapels high
O'ershadowed by
The Holy Cross;
Every rose
That grows;
Every sight
Of delight!
Sad creature, I--
Uncouth, ill-made!
None envies me!
This is life
As it is!
Darkest night,
Bluest sky,
What matters it?
Every door
Leads to God.
Ignoble scabbard,
Noble blade;
Fair my soul
God has made.
Ring, bells small and great--
Ring on, ring on!
Mix well your voices,
Gruff and sweet!
In the turrets,
In the tower,
Sing your song!
How they ring!
With all their might,
Let them hum
Day and night!
Our festival shall be
Magnificent, I swear!
Assail it fiercer yet,
The palpitating air!
The stupid peasants run,
And o'er the bridges tear!
Let them ring,
Let them hum,
Day and night!
Every feast
Is increased
By their might!
[_He turns toward the front of the church._
I saw black hangings in the chapel.
Are they dragging some misery here?
God! a presentiment! I'll not believe it!
[_Enter Claude Frollo and Clopin without perceiving Quasimodo._
It is my master! I'll observe him. He is gloomy too!
[_He hides himself in an obscure angle of the porch._
Oh, my mistress! Oh, Notre Dame!
Take my life! save my soul!
SCENE III
_Quasimodo hidden, Claude Frollo, Clopin_
CLAUDE FROLLO.
So Phoebus is at Montfort?
CLOPIN.
My lord, he is not dead!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Provided nothing brings him here!
CLOPIN.
Do not fear it;
He is too feeble yet for such a journey.
If he came, 'twould be his death.
My lord, you can feel sure
That every step would reopen his wound;
Do not fear anything this morning.
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Oh! let me hold her just to-day
For life or death within my power!
Hell! I'll give you all the rest,
If you grant me this one hour!
[_To Clopin._] They will soon bring the gypsy here!
You remember everything!
In the square--with your men--
CLOPIN.
Yes.
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Keep in the shadow;
If I cry, "To me!" you come.
CLOPIN.
Yes!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Have plenty with you!
CLOPIN.
If you cry, "To me!"
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Yes.
CLOPIN.
I rush to her,
I tear her from the King's men--
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Yes.
CLOPIN.
And give her to you.
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Go, mix among the crowd,
And perhaps she
Will look upon the priest
More tenderly;
Then rush--rush all of you--
CLOPIN.
Yes, my master!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Hold yourselves close!
CLOPIN.
Yes.
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Hide your arms,
Not to excite suspicion!
CLOPIN.
Master, you shall see!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
But hell may take her quick,
With my good-will,
If now this insane creature
Refuses still!
Destiny! Oh, fatal stroke!
Friend, I count on thee!
On this my only chance I wait
With fierce anxiety.
CLOPIN.
Fear nothing terrible, my lord,
Count faithfully on me,
And on this last and only chance
Rely courageously!
[_They go out hurriedly. The populace begin to enter the square._
SCENE IV
_The populace; Quasimodo; afterward Esmeralda, and her escort; then
Claude Frollo, Phoebus, Clopin Frouillefou, priests, archers,
officers of the law_
CHORUS.
To Notre Dame
Come, get a sight
Of the young woman
Who dies to-night!
This gypsy woman
Who stabbed, they say,
The handsomest officer
In the King's pay.
In vain did Heaven
Beauty lend her!
Is it possible--
God defend her!--
A soul so black,
An eye so tender!
A frightful thing,
Human nature is so!
The poor unfortunate!
Come, let us go
To Notre Dame
To get a sight
Of the young woman
Who dies to-night!
_The crowd increases; noise; a gloomy procession begins to appear on the
Place du Parvis. Rows of black penitents. Banners of La Miséricorde.
Torches, archers, officers of the law and the watch. The soldiers
disperse the crowd. Esmeralda appears. She wears a chemise; a rope is
around her neck; her feet are bare, and she is covered with a long black
veil of crape. Following her, come the executioners and the King's
officers. As the prisoner reaches the front of the church, a somber
chant is heard in the distance, coming from the interior of the church,
whose doors are closed._
CHORUS (_in the church_).
Omnes fluctus fluminis
Transierunt super me
In imo voraginis
Ubi plorant animæ.
[_The chant draws nearer. It bursts forth, at length, when near the
doors, which open suddenly and discover the interior of the church. It
is filled with a long procession of priests in their robes of ceremony;
banners are borne before them. Claude Frollo, in sacerdotal costume,
leads the procession. He goes toward the criminal._
THE PEOPLE.
Alive to-day, to-morrow dead!
Heaven! thy wings around her spread!
ESMERALDA.
It is Phoebus who calls me
Unto our home eternal,
Where God will hold us in His arms,
Safe from misfortunes cruel.
Though plunged in the abyss of woe,
A joyful hope is given:
I am to die upon the earth
To be re-born in heaven!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
To die so young, so beautiful!
Alas! the guilty priest
Must suffer greater woe than she;
He ne'er will be released.
Oh, hapless child of sorrow,
Lost through my infamy,
You only die from off this earth,
While heaven is lost to me!
THE PEOPLE.
Alas! she is an infidel.
God's words, unto us spoken,
Say that in heaven for such as she
No blessed gate shall open.
Death holds her fast, what misery!
She can escape it, never!
She dies unto the world this day,
And unto heaven forever!
[_The procession approaches. Claude accosts Esmeralda._
ESMERALDA (_frozen with terror_).
It is the priest!
CLAUDE FROLLO (_low_).
Yes, it is I! I love you, I entreat you!
Say but one word! 'Tis not too late;
I can yet save you!
Say, I love you!
ESMERALDA.
I abhor you! Go!
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Then die! I'll go where I can find you!
[_Claude turns to the crowd._
We deliver this woman to the secular arm;
At this solemn moment may the breath of the Lord
Pass over her soul!
[_As the officers of the law are about to seize Esmeralda, Quasimodo
jumps into the square, thrusts back the archers, takes Esmeralda in
his arms, and throws himself with her into the church._
QUASIMODO.
Sanctuary! sanctuary! sanctuary!
THE PEOPLE.
Sanctuary! sanctuary! sanctuary!
Rejoice, O people!
Hail to the good bell-ringer!
Oh, destiny!
The criminal
Belongs to heaven!
The scaffold falls!
The eternal God
Instead of a tomb
Discloses the altar!
Executioners, back!
King's officers, back!
This barrier
Limits your power.
Thou hast changed
Everything here.
The angels claim her;
She belongs to God!
CLAUDE FROLLO (_commanding silence by a gesture_).
She is not saved! She is a gypsy!
Notre Dame can save none but Christians!
Pagans are proscribed even when clasping the altar!
[_To the King's men._] In the name of my lord the Archbishop of Paris,
I give you back this sinful woman!
QUASIMODO (_to the archers_).
I will defend her! I swear it.
Approach us not!
CLAUDE FROLLO (_to the archers_).
Do you hesitate?
Obey me, on the instant!
Tear the gypsy from this holy place.
[_The archers advance. Quasimodo places himself between them and
Esmeralda._
QUASIMODO.
Never!
[_A horseman is heard approaching. He calls out_:
Wait! [_The crowd disperses._
PHOEBUS (_appearing on horseback. He is pale, breathless, exhausted
as is a man who has made a long journey_).
Wait!
ESMERALDA.
Phoebus!
CLAUDE FROLLO (_aside, terrified_).
My plot has failed.
PHOEBUS (_leaping from his horse_).
God be praised! I breathe
And I arrive in time!
This girl is innocent.
Behold my assassin!
[_Points to Claude Frollo._
ALL.
Heavens! the priest!
PHOEBUS.
The priest alone is guilty, and I will prove it!
Arrest him!
THE PEOPLE.
Oh, wonder! [_The archers surround Claude Frollo._
CLAUDE FROLLO.
God alone is Master!
ESMERALDA.
Phoebus!
PHOEBUS.
Esmeralda!
[_They fall into each other's arms._
ESMERALDA.
My adored Phoebus, we shall live!
PHOEBUS.
Thou shalt live!
ESMERALDA.
For us shines happiness!
THE PEOPLE.
Live, both of you!
ESMERALDA.
Hear these joyous shouts!
At thy feet receive me, humble girl!
Heavens! thou art pale! What is the matter?
PHOEBUS (_staggering_).
I die!
[_She catches him in her arms. Expectation and anxiety among the crowd._
Each step I took toward you, my beloved,
Reopened my wound, that was hardly healed.
I have taken your grave and given you life.
I die! Destiny has avenged thee.
My angel, I go to see
If heaven is worth thy love!
Farewell! [_He dies._
ESMERALDA.
Phoebus! He dies! In an instant everything is changed!
[_She falls upon his body._
I follow you into eternity.
CLAUDE FROLLO.
Fatality!
THE PEOPLE.
Fatality!
Transcriber's Notes
A few minor typographical errors have been silently corrected. Names of
characters have been regularized, but other variant spellings have been
left as they were printed. Page numbers have been removed from the table
of contents.
End of Project Gutenberg's The Dramas of Victor Hugo, by Victor Hugo