The Prodigal Father
Drama in Five Acts
by Alexandre Dumas fils, 1859
Translated and adapted by Frank J. Morlock
Translation is Copyright © 2001 by Frank J. Morlock. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without explicit consent of Frank J. Morlock. Please contact frankmorlock@msn.com for licensing information.
Table of Contents
Characters
A room in Andre's home.
ANDRE
(arranging his papers)
(to Victorine)
I rang for Joseph: Where is he?
VICTORINE
He went out.
ANDRE
Did you send him somewhere?
VICTORINE
He doesn't need to be sent somewhere to leave. He's always out.
ANDRE
What is there for lunch?
VICTORINE
Nothing, sir.
ANDRE
I told you about dining yesterday and I didn't dine home.
VICTORINE
It happened that my parents came from the country and they --
ANDRE
How are your parents?
VICTORINE
Very good, sir, I think you --
ANDRE
Your parents won't prevent you from making us lunch.
VICTORINE
Is there company?
ANDRE
A lady.
VICTORINE
The lady in black.
ANDRE
No, Miss Victorine, it's not the lady in black, it's another lady, who you will request, when she comes, to wait for me a bit because I have to go out.
VICTORINE
Ah, sir, I was thinking that Mr. de Tournas came this morning. He's going back. He absolutely must speak to you.
ANDRE
I know what he has to tell me. Kick Mr. Tournas out the door.
VICTORINE
I was sure of that. You're going to give me money before you leave.
ANDRE
You no longer have enough -- already?
VICTORINE
No, sir -- but everything is accounted for.
ANDRE
(giving her a bill)
Get this changed.
JOSEPH
(he's obviously drunk, but carries himself very well)
Madame Godefroy.
ANDRE
Where are you coming from?
JOSEPH
From the tailor. He brought me a suit that didn't fit well.
ANDRE
What were you going to say?
JOSEPH
Madame Godefroy is below in the carriage. She asks if she can speak to you.
ANDRE
Madame Godefroy?
JOSEPH
Yes, sir.
ANDRE
Tell her to come in.
JOSEPH
You said, sir?
ANDRE
(approaching Joseph)
He' completely drunk.
VICTORINE
So early in the morning? Is it possible?
ANDRE
(to Victorine)
Tell Madame Godefroy to enter. If the lady I am expecting for lunch comes while Madame Godefroy is here -- you'll introduce her -- there --
(pointing to his father's apartment)
(Joseph leaves -- to Joseph who is asleep on his feet.)
ANDRE
Joseph!
JOSEPH
Sir?
ANDRE
Give me a handkerchief and go to bed.
JOSEPH
Go to bed?
ANDRE
Yes, you are drunk.
JOSEPH
That doesn't prevent me from performing my duties. It's the heat of the apartment that went to my head a little coming from outside.
ANDRE
(seeing Madame Godefroy enter)
Go, go --
(Joseph leaves and closes the door.)
ANDRE
What! It's you, dear Madame?
MADAME GODEFROY
It's me, coming to bring you the information you asked me about in your last letter.
ANDRE
You left the country expressly for this?
MADAME GODEFROY
No, but I needed to come to Paris on some business. I profited by the opportunity and I took the liberty of presenting myself at your home.
ANDRE
You should have written me to go see you.
MADAME GODEFROY
That's what I would have done if I hadn't found you. But what's the use of disturbing you? Everything is allowed a woman of my age -- besides you take liberties with friends -- for I hope you have a little friendship for me?
ANDRE
I've a great deal of friendship for you, Madame, and for a long while.
MADAME GODEFROY
Really true?
ANDRE
Really true.
MADAME GODEFROY
I'm really glad of that, for as for me, I love you the way I'd love my son -- if I had one.
(seeing Joseph come to prepare Andre's overcoat on a chair)
You're in a hurry -- you are going to go out?
ANDRE
Some errands before my departure -- but I have time.
MADAME GODEFROY
You're going to Dieppe?
ANDRE
To rejoin my father who's written me letter after letter to come.
MADAME GODEFROY
I invited him to come with you to hunt at my place -- he replied, as always, that neither he nor you, would be able to come.
ANDRE
Indeed --
MADAME GODEFROY
You both are afraid of boring each other -- probably, you are not mistaken. Still, that's not the question.
JOSEPH
(to Andre)
Your handkerchief, your wallet and the newspapers.
(placing them on the table and leaving)
MADAME GODEFROY
Your father's found an old friend of his at Dieppe -- Mme de Chavry with her mere with whom you were missed -- to speak plainly. For one reason or another, you wanted, before turning to their home, to have some information about those two ladies that you had lost sight of for the last eight years -- and as my property is a half league from Dieppe you asked me to get as much information as possible and to apprise you of it.
ANDRE
That's right, you must have thought, dear Madame.
MADAME GODEFROY
I thought nothing at all; you will tell me when the moment comes, what you think you ought to tell me -- and as for me, I am going to tell you what I've learned.
(she pulls a paper from her purse, reading)
"Mme de Chavry lived for the last eight years abroad, separated from her husband, who as a bad character. She finally installed herself in Venice. She learned 18 months ago of the death of the Marquis. At the end of her mourning she returned to France to marry off her niece, who wanted to establish herself here -- the day after the marriage of her niece she will leave for her palace on the Grand Canal, which she can no longer do without.
ANDRE
And Miss Helen?
MADAME GODEFROY
Left an orphan very young, brought up by her young aunt, who is a bit worldly, a bit frivolous, even a little crazy -- her friends say -- Miss Helene received a superficial education which almost all young women today reserve in her sit; still she has the aspiration and the feeling to do good -- she will be what we all are -- a good or bad wife -- depending on the husband she chooses. Her character is the most amiable and facile; no coquettery -- not even those coquetteries of a school girl so common among girls of her age brought up freely. There, my dear, Mr. Andre -- all that I've been able to learn.
ANDRE
You are a dear, Madame, the best woman that I know. I am going to leave this very day for Dieppe where I am going to see you with my father.
MADAME GODEFROY
How good that will be of you to bring him. But I think I'll bore him!
ANDRE
You are mistaken, Madame. My father has the most sincere affection and the profoundest esteem for you. If he goes more often where he's amused, rather than where he's loved, he can't be accused of anything but habit. It's very difficult to change oneself at his age -- at least unless necessity is involved, and perhaps it's going to be involved.
MADAME GODEFROY
His fortune.
ANDRE
His fortune has begun to no longer agree with his tastes I am still hesitating to inform him about it, but it must reach that point, and who knows? This bad news may perhaps have some good effects.
MADAME GODEFROY
Ah, if you wanted to, my dear Mr. Andre, that would be the moment to make us all happy.
ANDRE
I think of it sometimes.
MADAME GODEFROY
Really!
ANDRE
Yes, and if it only depended on me --
MADAME GODEFROY
But this does depend only on you -- your father will do whatever you wish. Despite the follies of his adventurous life and desperations, you've been and you still are -- his only love. He recognize you more reason than he has -- he has unlimited confidence in you -- he's even afraid of you. I mustn't hide anything from you, my dear Andre -- your father paid court to me once -- as he did to all the ladies -- I was only a simple bourgeois, but I was pretty they said, my husband didn't appreciate me at my worth -- still, Mr. Godefroy was an honest man, I was an honest woman and I wouldn't have cheated on him for anything in the world. Between ourselves -- I had merit the count was very seductive -- he still is -- when I became a widow, ten years ago. ( hadn't wished it, but still I was one). I quite simply offered the count to become his wife. He was generous enough to reply to me that because of you he didn't want to remarry -- the truth is that the little bourgeois didn't please him any more and he didn't want to enchain his freedom was I asking another thing for myself in the marriage, than the joy of making him happy as he understood it? I would have kept his house -- I would have created a comfortable home -- I would have taken care of him and of you, I would have coddled him like a child -- for your father is a big baby -- he didn't want it. Still he won't always be young even in spirit. If you marry how will he live peacefully between his son and his daughter-in-law and if he doesn't life so -- what will become of him? You understand me -- his future worries you, too, you lose your father, you know my affection for him: do your best.
ANDRE
I am very happy for this explanation, dear Madame, and --
DE TOURNAS
(enters as the last words were spoken -- trying to find a newspaper on the table)
It's me, dear friend, pardon, I through you were alone -- don't bother about me --
ANDRE
(very annoyed)
Excuse me, but --
DE TOURNAS
Don't trouble yourself, I will wait -- I am only taking a paper to see the news --
(finding a paper)
This is yesterdays -- ah, here's today's
(leaves on tiptoe, affecting the great discretion towards Madame Godefroy)
ANDRE
(after ringing, to Madame Godefroy)
You'll excuse me, Madame.
JOSEPH
(entering)
A letter, sir.
ANDRE
Who opened the door to Mr de Tournas? I forbade him being received.
JOSEPH
He entered while I was in the Count's apartment -- I left the antechamber door open, besides --
(indicating Madame Godefroy)
I thought you wouldn't be angry.
ANDRE
Enough. You are no longer in my employ.
JOSEPH
The Vicomte sends me away.
ANDRE
Yes.
JOSEPH
When must I leave the house, sir?
ANDRE
When you please.
JOSEPH
I was very attached to you; you'll miss me.
(he leaves)
MADAME GODEFROY
How you are tormented! Your time no longer belongs to you; I am leaving you for I am troublesome coming like the others. I had brought at your request, in coming to Paris, some little provisions for winter: You really will accept them, won't you? Some preserves that your father is fond of and that I made myself. Try to prevent your servants from eating them like last year.
ANDRE
I'll watch it, dear Madame, for I too love preserves.
(he takes his handkerchief)
MADAME GODEFROY
Look at your handkerchief.
ANDRE
(seeing that it's torn)
If you could see my father, it's quite otherwise.
MADAME GODEFROY
I am ridiculous, but things like that desolate me. Finally. Goodbye.
(she starts to leave -- changing her mind)
Are you sure the Count i snot paying court to Madame de Chavry?
ANDRE
I'm sure of it. It would be the first thing he would have written me.
MADAME GODEFROY
(very pleased)
Come, goodbye, my dear Mr. Andre -- don't forget your promise.
ANDRE
Don't worry, dear Madame, and a thousand thanks for this nice visit.
(At the moment Madame Godefroy leaves, and obsequiously, holds the door open for her -- sh bows and leave. He returns.)
DE TOURNAS
Are you well, dear chap?
ANDRE
Very well, I thank you.
DE TOURNAS
What's new to tell me?
ANDRE
I don't know anything new my dear fellow, anyway, I am in a rush. You'll permit me to read this letter.
DE TOURNAS
Read, dear chap, read.
ANDRE
(opening the letter and reading)
"My really dear friend, I am lone in Paris until tomorrow. I'll explain to you how this came about. How lucky I am for this day of freedom that I didn't expect yesterday. I can see you again today, and we are going to see each other all the following days. Expect me about half past noon. I hasten to tell you again how much I love you and what I've done to prove it to you. My whole life is yours.
(puts the letter in his pocket and rings)
Desolated, my dear friend, but I must leave.
DE TOURNAS
Too bad! I came to find you to offer to take you to lunch at the cafe.
ANDRE
Impossible today.
DE TOURNAS
You've lunched already?
ANDRE
No -- but I am lunching with someone.
DE TOURNAS
A woman! Ah, my you are right. You are young, amuse but don't abuse -- yourself -- what are you looking for?
ANDRE
(ringing again)
I'm looking for my hat.
DE TOURNAS
Here it is -- ah, no -- this is mine. You probably lost it. Would you like if I asked for it -- your hat?
ANDRE
(seeing Joseph enter)
I thank you. Joseph will get it for me.
(Joseph)
If the lady in black comes, when I am here or when I am not -- tell her I left this morning for Dieppe.
JOSEPH
Yes, sir.
ANDRE
Give me my hat.
(Joseph leaves.)
DE TOURNAS
Who's this lady in black?
ANDRE
She's a lady who dresses that way, probably because she doesn't want to be known.
DE TOURNAS
There's a husband -- what good luck you must have.
ANDRE
If you came from the same side I do --
DE TOURNAS
By the way, I haven't seen you since you were good enough to loan me what I asked you for. You don't want me to be your debtor again?
ANDRE
No.
DE TOURNAS
If you were to need --
ANDRE
No.
DE TOURNAS
Between ourselves, I think I'm getting into a big opportunity. Let's not speak of it. I'll come give you the details someday when you have time. Still, perhaps, there'll be money for you to make in it. I will think about it. Until then, I still have my inheritance ______ which isn't over yet. Still, I have hope -- I went to see the judges. They received me very well and in two or three months, I think -- but two or three months, is quite a while and in the meantime --
ANDRE
(putting his hand in his pocket)
Look -- how much?
DE TOURNAS
Lend me 15 crowns.
ANDRE
Here they are.
DE TOURNAS
I will return them all at once. Oh, I haven't forgotten anything. Good accounts make for good friends.
(he puts the money in his pocket after having glanced at it, as if to be certain it was there)
And how's your father? Have you news of him? Still young, eh? Always busy? What a natural. It's been 25 years we've known him. Ah, I really like him a lot and I think he likes me a lot, too. We are devoted to each other. You were just so big --
(placing his hand two feet off the ground)
-- when I met him.
JOSEPH
(bringing Andre's hat)
Have you been told Mme de la Borderi is here?
ANDRE
No -- where is she?
JOSEPH
She arrived while Madame Godefroy was with you. I made her wait in the Count's apartment.
ANDRE
That's fine.
(Joseph leaves.)
ANDRE
Already 11 o'clock.
(watching de Tournas)
I'm going to get something out of my 15 crowns.
(to de Tournas)
Would you do me a favor?
DE TOURNAS
Two, dear friend, two!
ANDRE
You invited me to lunch?
DE TOURNAS
And I offer it to you still!
ANDRE
Thanks -- it's I who invite you.
DE TOURNAS
Even better -- but I don't see what favor I am doing.
ANDRE
The favor is to keep the lady who is about to enter company while I leave and until I return.
DE TOURNAS
Very willingly.
ANDRE
(going to the door and calling)
Albertine!
ALBERTINE
(entering and giving Andre her hand)
Hello, dear friend! Who's apartment is that they made me wait so long in? One would say it's a woman apartment.
ANDRE
It's my father's apartment which communicate with mine through the room we are in. I beg your pardon for not receiving you sooner.
ALBERTINE
They told me you had company; you are completely excused.
ANDRE
Then allow me to present this gentleman to you, in whose company I beg you to wait for me a short while.
ALBERTINE
You are leaving?
ANDRE
For a quarter of an hour.
ALBERTINE
So this is what you call giving lunch to your friend! What the devil do you expect me to do with him?
ANDRE
A thing like this cannot embarrass a woman of wit like you. I've had to go out since noon, and I haven't been able to manage it. There's always company him.
ALBERTINE
Can you tell us at least where you are going?
ANDRE
I've got a meeting with my notary.
ALBERTINE
The whole world is going to their notary this morning.
ANDRE
You went to yours?
ALBERTINE
No, I am going to go, after leaving here, to bring him 10,000 francs that I got yesterday. I hate to keep money at home.
(knocking on the door)
COACHMAN
(entering)
Sir --
(Meanwhile, Albertine takes off her hat and shawl, placing them on a chair then drawing a comb from her purse, she proceeds to comb her hair then powder her face. De Tournas takes out his lorgnette and examines her from head to foot, without her appearing to notice it.)
ANDRE
What is it?
COACHMAN
Joseph and Victorine went out and someone's here from the bank.
ANDRE
For -- ?
COACHMAN
For a bill.
ANDRE
What bill?
COACHMAN
A bill -- an order to pay.
ANDRE
On whom?
COACHMAN
On you, sir.
ANDRE
On me? There's a mistake. I never write orders to pay. Tell the receiver to enter.
COACHMAN
(at the door)
Will you please enter, sir.
(the bill collector boy enters)
(The coachman leaves.)
ANDRE
You came to collect a bill?
BILL BOY
Yes, sir, a check for six thousand francs by the Count de la Rivonniere.
ANDRE
Let's see.
BILL BOY
Here, sir.
ANDRE
My father drew this on me.
(to boy)
I wasn't expecting this.
BILL BOY
Must it be sent back?
ANDRE
Not at all. Leave me the bank report.
BILL BOY
(giving him the report)
Bureau member 5, before two o'clock.
(he leaves)
ANDRE
(with a gesture of ill humor)
That's all I need.
ALBERTINE
If you don't have what you need, I am going to give it to you, and you'll pay me back later.
ANDRE
Thanks -- I am not rich enough to become a creditor in a house like yours.
ALBERTINE
Miser!
ANDRE
(to Albertine and De Tournas)
I'll be back.
ALBERTINE
He isn't satisfied. The Bourgeois!
DE TOURNAS
As for me, I have the idea he's on his way to ruining himself.
ALBERTINE
You think Andre's ruining himself?
DE TOURNAS
I see him often in a bad mood -- for a long while.
ALBERTINE
That proves nothing. People who ruin themselves are always gay. If's after they are ruined they are in a bad humor.
DE TOURNAS
You've seen many in that condition?
ALBERTINE
No -- once they were in that condition I no longer saw them.
DE TOURNAS
And London -- was it you who ruined him?
ALBERTINE
You knew London? What a sweet kid!
DE TOURNAS
I saw you sometimes at his place -- in his little hotel in the Rue Chauchat.
ALBERTINE
They were always fun -- those days.
DE TOURNAS
I was 15.
(choking back a laugh)
Hmm!
ALBERTINE
You have something in your throat?
DE TOURNAS
Trouble swallowing.
(swallowed wrong)
ALBERTINE
You really have to say things like that. Everyone doesn't have tonsils as sensitive as yours. But you are joking, you are not a child.
(pointing to his hair)
There's a bit of gray in there.
DE TOURNAS
Then, you say that London -- ?
ALBERTINE
It's not to be believed! When he was ruined -- I mean completely ruined --
DE TOURNAS
I have confidence in you. I'm sure the thing was properly done.
ALBERTINE
Where are you coming from? It wasn't I who ruined London. What did he give me? Three hundred thousand francs over four years. You see, that's no big thing.
(she rings)
Are you happy?
DE TOURNAS
Yes.
ALBERTINE
(to Joseph)
Serve us.
JOSEPH
We are waiting for the Vicomte.
ALBERTINE
I am not asking you if you're waiting for the Vicomte. I told you to serve us, never mind what, in a corner of the table. Go.
(Joseph leaves.)
I know that fellow. He used to work at Chez Monsieur. He recognized me; he's going to serve us right away, don't worry about that. To get back to London; I have perhaps the only person who held his hand during this crash. I brought him 15 thousand francs. He was a very honest lad -- he refused them. I thought he would refuse them but, still I did what I ought to do.
DE TOURNAS
Fifteen thousand francs -- fair interest on his money -- and then?
ALBERTINE
Then, when he no longer had a penny, when he'd paid off all that he owed, instead of getting married, which would have been very easy for him, because he was a very pretty lad from a good family, he asked for and obtained with considerable difficulty, a job paying 3,000 francs for a foreign railroad; now he has six thousand francs salary -- he's well and he's very happy.
DE TOURNAS
And he has your respect?
ALBERTINE
And he has my respect, yes, my dear, and not everyone does. Men who ruin themselves for us are imbeciles. I grant you, but some are hones, and remain honest even afterwards, and that's not easy. As to that, it's useless to tell us unpleasant things, isn't it? Wolves don't eat each other. For I, too, I recognize you. You are Mr de Tournas. I've often heard mentioned under the pretext that you've consumed already a small legacy of 150,000 francs -- in the 25 years since that happened you still find a way to keep five crowns in your pocket. That's not dumb -- and I admire you, because it's not as easy for a man as for a woman, but it's not a reason to despise those who preferred to do otherwise. Then, my good man, and when you know where to dine, come dine with me, you will give me pleasure.
DE TOURNAS
(after a short silence)
What time do you dine?
ALBERTINE
Come, you are a witty fellow -- at seven.
(During these last words, Joseph enters and puts food on the table.)
ALBERTINE
While waiting, let's eat. Slices of beef and fricasseed chicken, at this hour. This a lunch for a ______ give me a slice of cheese and some fruit.
DE TOURNAS
As for me, I'll eat a little beef. I dined ill yesterday.
ALBERTINE
Where'd you eat?
DE TOURNAS
At home.
JOSEPH
Let's hope that, after Andre gets married, his house will be as well appointed.
DE TOURNAS
So we shall profit by it! But is he going to marry?
ALBERTINE
He serves sliced beef for lunch. He won't make a good husband.
DE TOURNAS
Then it is a matter of indifference to you.
ALBERTINE
Completely.
DE TOURNAS
I thought, seeing you here --
ALBERTINE
That I loved, Andre, perhaps --
DE TOURNAS
Love -- no, but still --
ALBERTINE
It's a long time I've known Andre. He had a sort of passion for me of my friends -- recently he's paid me a sort of court -- you never know hat will happen.
I asked him to lunch this morning. I wanted to see the interior of his house. But a woman in my position can have only one series liaison. In five minutes I learned what I came to find out. Bad house. Bad service. Bad surroundings. What a nice marriage that would make. And yet -- no -- that's not what I need.
DE TOURNAS
What do you need then?
ALBERTINE
I am the best natured girl in the world -- but what do you want? I am orderly, it's in my nature. Let them say ill of me because I had wisdom enough to put a little money aside.
DE TOURNAS
You are rich?
ALBERTINE
No -- I have thirty thousand francs income -- I want forty.
DE TOURNAS
That's your figure?
ALBERTINE
You cannot live on less. When I get my 40,000. I say goodbye to the world. I'll sell all the diamonds, carriages, horses at public auction. That's the best thing. I have a horror of all these geegaws, but you have to have them, without them, no one will look at you. I'm going to buy a nice little hotel in a corner of Paris, I'll furnish it modestly with some rosewood and acacia, nothing more -- I'll receive a few good friends, some artists, they're amusing, no women, of course I know them, those ladies! And then having no more disturbances. I'll occupy myself with love which I haven't yet been able to do -- if sometime, I find a heart that understands mine --
DE TOURNAS
Oh -- you'll find that --
(as Tournas speaks the Count opens the door of his apartment)
COUNT
(very low)
Joseph! Joseph!
JOSEPH
Are you calling me, Count, sir?
COUNT
Yes, I'm back. Silence, silence! Andre isn't here?
JOSEPH
No, sir --
COUNT
Is he going to come home?
JOSEPH
Soon?
COUNT
You'll come inform me of his return. Busy yourself with the people who are here.
JOSEPH
No need to bother with them!
ALBERTINE
(turns and seeing the Court and Joseph, low to de Tournas)
Who's that gentleman talking with Joseph?
DE TOURNAS
(after having looked up)
It's the Count, Andre Senior.
(De Tournas rises and goes to the Count.)
COUNT
Heavens, it's you, Tournas! How's it going, dear chap?
DE TOURNAS
Very well, you see, we are lunching informally, Madame and I'm at Andre's while waiting for him. Will you allow me to you Madame de la Borderi.
COUNT
Rather present me to her.
DE TOURNAS
The Count Fernaud de la Rivonniere.
ALBERTINE
You must be very surprised, Count, to find installed with you son, almost with you, while he is away a person you don't know as one of his friends.
COUNT
What astonishes me is that my son is absent from home while you are here. I beg your pardon for having disturbed you, Madame, but I was unaware there was company at Andre's.
(bowing)
ALBERTINE
You are leaving us already?
COUNT
If my son were to return --
ALBERTINE
Well --
COUNT
Perhaps he would scold me for staying here.
ALBERTINE
He scolds you?
COUNT
Sometimes.
ALBERTINE
Do you deserve it?
COUNT
Often.
ALBERTINE
I'll take responsibility for it, stay and allow me to do the honors of the house even though I lack the right.
COUNT
So much the worse for Andre.
ALBERTINE
First of all, have you had lunch?
COUNT
No.
ALBERTINE
(to Joseph)
Set a place --
COUNT
And serve me two eggs.
JOSEPH
What kind of wine, sir?
COUNT
Water? You know quite well I never drink anything except water.
(Joseph leaves.)
ALBERTINE
(to Tournas)
He's better than his son.
DE TOURNAS
(who has taken his hat)
There's no comparison!
COUNT
(low to de Tournas)
Who's this lady?
DE TOURNAS
How do you like her?
COUNT
Charming!
DE TOURNAS
Well -- she's a charming lady, that's all. I'm leaving you.
(to Albertine)
Goodbye, dear Madame.
ALBERTINE
Wait for me, my dear Mr de Tournas, I'm going with you.
DE TOURNAS
Certainly.
(to Joseph)
Then give me some coffee.
(going to take his coffee at the rear)
COUNT
(noticing Albertine putting her hat and shawl back on)
You are abandoning me? That's a betrayal!
ALBERTINE
You are leaving again in a few hours. If you've come to Paris it's because you have something to do besides talk with me. And, besides, what would we talk about? We don't know each other.
COUNT
That won't present any difficulty. We'll get to.
ALBERTINE
Ill.
COUNT
My son is very happy.
ALBERTINE
About what?
COUNT
To know a person like you so well.
ALBERTINE
He's only known me for the last six months. That's the difference that exists between you.
COUNT
Your word?
ALBERTINE
My word?
COUNT
Then stay!
ALBERTINE
No, I have all sorts of reasons to go.
COUNT
Someone's waiting for you?
ALBERTINE
Perhaps. And then what would Madame Genson say, for example, if she knew I was here!
COUNT
Madame de Genson.
ALBERTINE
Or Mme de Villerveux, or Mme de Norbois, for If I don't have the honor of knowing you, I know many of your friends and your friends are indiscrete. You only love women of fashion and up till now, you've never wanted to set foot on our territory. I don't want to reproach myself for having made you cross the frontier -- especially at your age.
COUNT
"At your age" is naughty.
ALBERTINE
You see, I wouldn't know how to talk with you for half an hour without saying something stupid.
COUNT
(taking her hand)
When will I see you again?
ALBERTINE
Whenever you will -- 26 Rue de la Paix, from one to two -- that's when I receive my best friends.
COUNT
And your best friend?
ALBERTINE
He chooses his hour.
COUNT
Do you know you're witty?
ALBERTINE
With us, it's best to keep a little of everything, there's so much competition.
COUNT
Don't say such things; villainous words go ill in a pretty mouth.
ALBERTINE
How sentimental you are!
COUNT
It's my age --
ALBERTINE
You'll tell the Vicomte that I thank him very much for the lunch he's given me, but I'll know what his invitations mean in the future. Happily, you are here and I no longer regret anything. When will I see you.
COUNT
Whenever you will permit me.
ALBERTINE
On your return, of course. Where are you going?
COUNT
To Dieppe.
ALBERTINE
To Dieppe? I have a friend then.
COUNT
Your best?
ALBERTINE
One of my best; Mr. de Natin.
COUNT
I know him well, he's a charming young man.
ALBERTINE
Are you sure of it? Suppose I were to go to see him?
COUNT
There's a good idea! Come then.
ALBERTINE
Could I count on your visit?
COUNT
Absolutely --
ALBERTINE
Then I won't say no. If I were to go there it will be very soon. Many case, I will let you know. Hotel Royal.
ALBERTINE
That's agreed. I don't need to recommend discretion to you -- vis-a-vis Mr. de Natin.
COUNT
(kissing her hand)
I understand.
ALBERTINE
Are you coming, my dear de Tournas?
DE TOURNAS
Here I am --
(They leave.)
JOSEPH
(who's been serving during this time)
The Count is served.
COUNT
Fine. You are going to go to my florist, Lemoine, the florist by the opera house, you know him well enough -- and you'll tell him to send today -- with my card -- he already has some of my cards -- to Miss Albertine de La Borderi 26 or 28 Rue de la Paix -- I don't remember exactly the number she gave me --
JOSEPH
Twenty-six.
COUNT
You know her address?
JOSEPH
Oh, yes, sir.
COUNT
Send her a bouquet of white lilies and roses. I don't need you for anything -- go right away.
(Joseph gives the Count a large envelope)
What's that?
JOSEPH
These are papers which came in your in your absence and that I didn't think ought to be sent to Dieppe.
COUNT
(without taking the papers)
You did well. My son hasn't seen them?
JOSEPH
No, sir.
COUNT
Well, don't let him see them, and put them with the others.
JOSEPH
I will allow myself to ask your to intercede for me with his son.
COUNT
About what?
JOSEPH
He told me to find a situation somewhere else, and I am so attached to the house.
COUNT
I'll arrange that. If my son kicks you out, I'll take you. Go to the florist, go.
ANDRE
(entering without seeing his father)
Mme de la Borderi has gone?
JOSEPH
Yes, sir -- and Mr de Tournas as well. Have you had lunch.
ANDRE
No.
COUNT
Well, you are going to lunch with me.
(to Joseph)
Set a place.
(Joseph goes out)
ANDRE
What --you here?
COUNT
I've been here for an hour -- and the honors of the house were performed for me by a very loveable person.
ANDRE
It's really a question of loveable persons! It's you who are loveable --
COUNT
What's wrong?
ANDRE
I am furious.
COUNT
With whom?
ANDRE
With you.
COUNT
What have I done?
ANDRE
You wrote a check.
COUNT
Me?
ANDRE
Here it is.
COUNT
It's not a bill of exchange -- it's a contract -- I know what it is -- it comes from London --it's for the boat.
ANDRE
It comes from London and it's for the boat -- that doesn't excuse it. What's this about the boat again?
COUNT
But they weren't supposed to present it until the 15th.
ANDRE
Well?
COUNT
Is today the 15th?
ANDRE
You know very well it is.
COUNT
I thought it was only the 14th. You paid it?
ANDRE
Naturally!
COUNT
I owe you 6,000 francs, that's all.
ANDRE
Yes, that's all. But you didn't warn me. I didn't have any money here -- I had to get some from my notary. I bet you in the future --
COUNT
Poor boy! But between you and me, you would have done better since you haven't seen me for a monthly, and you love me, to kiss me seeing me return instead of telling me what you've told me --
ANDRE
(hugging him)
All that doesn't change the fact --
COUNT
The second impulse is good, I know it indeed, also you ought to begin with it. I don't ask you less pardon for the embarrassment I've caused you.
(taking bills from his pocket)
Here's your 6,000 francs.
(offering him the seat)
And since you need money, take this.
ANDRE
Where's you get that money from?
COUNT
It's money that I've come into.
ANDRE
You had nothing to receive.
COUNT
You always have something to receive when you aren't looking for it. Ah, let's talk about serious things -- are you in love?
ANDRE
Why ask that?
COUNT
I don't see any reason to stay in Paris in the month of September; I've only been here two hours and I'm suffocating, if it wasn't to tear you away.
ANDRE
It's for that alone?
COUNT
Not for any other thing. There's a superb party organized for the day after tomorrow with Mme Chavry - her niece, de Ligneroy. You don't know de Ligneroy?
ANDRE
No.
COUNT
He's a nice chap who you'll like a lot, but he almost always lives in Italy for his health -- and because Mme de Chavry lives there.
ANDRE
Ah!
COUNT
Yes, yes, but that doesn't concern us. There will be Natin, you know him.
ANDRE
All too well! So that's whom you keep company with?
COUNT
Yes, I love young folk. Anyway, I've given my word you will be one of us and since my letters are of use, I came to find you myself. What do you say of a father like that?
ANDRE
Ah! He's a good father! But he also came to say goodbye to Mme de Gauson who announced her departure wrote me to come see her.
COUNT
She left yesterday; she's going to rejoin her husband in Scotland.
ANDRE
Well -- why you must be terribly sad!
COUNT
It's true. I don't know that to do -- I don't bear this misfortune very well.
ANDRE
You haven't seen her then?
COUNT
Yes -- I got to Paris yesterday. Only I just had time to change trains. I accompanied her to Boulogne. Between you and me, I think there's a bit of diplomatic intrigue under cover of this trip. As for the rest, we parted with each other agreeably. She really made a scene; she wept, and as for me, when I saw the boat pull away -- with the steam which drove it, I couldn't repress a tear. My heart still made of stuff so easily broken.
ANDRE
And which repairs itself most rapidly.
COUNT
It's time -- for --
ANDRE
What's happened?
COUNT
I have to talk to you about business.
ANDRE
Me, two! That works out fine. I'm listening to you.
COUNT
No -- you begin -- to encourage me.
ANDRE
It's really serious then?
COUNT
Oh -- very serious.
ANDRE
Well -- that is what it is --
(Joseph enters.)
ANDRE
What do you want?
JOSEPH
For you not to speak so loud.
ANDRE
Why's that?
JOSEPH
The lady in black is here.
ANDRE
What! The lady in black is here? Still -- you told her --
JOSEPH
Yes, but she absolutely insists on writing a word to you, and she is there -- in that room. I didn't dare to refuse her -- be careful, sir --
(he leaves)
COUNT
Do you want me to leave?
ANDRE
On the contrary --
COUNT
If you have someone to receive -- ?
ANDRE
No one -- only don't make much more.
COUNT
You have her told you weren't home?
ANDRE
Yes -- but I think she suspects I am.
COUNT
Do you want me to go receive this person? I will tell her you're left --
ANDRE
Useless.
COUNT
She's a woman; you have to keep up appearances.
ANDRE
It's not worth the trouble.
COUNT
Then go bold your door.
ANDRE
You are right.
(he quickly slips the bolt. At that very moment someone attempts to open it from outside)
Just in time.
(looks through the keyhole)
COUNT
You see, I know women better than you.
ANDRE
She's going.
(to Count)
I get your pardon.
COUNT
Aren't you in your own home?
JOSEPH
(entering)
Departed -- and here's the letter she sent you.
ANDRE
(reading)
"I know you're home, Andre. You are kicking me out for another woman. I had arranged a way to meet you in Dieppe. I came to tell you this good news -- I realize I bore you -- you will never see me again! Goodbye, Andre."
COUNT
"Be happy".
ANDRE
"Be happy" -- yes, then it is.
COUNT
The letters are always the same. She's a woman of thirty.
ANDRE
Yes.
COUNT
Pretty.
ANDRE
Pretty.
COUNT
Widow.
ANDRE
Married.
COUNT
A young husband?
ANDRE
Forty.
COUNT
That's still young. He's not your friend, right?
ANDRE
I've never see him.
COUNT
He doesn't suspect anything.
ANDRE
Fortunately for he's a jealous as a tiger.
COUNT
(taking his hand)
You know that I have only you --
ANDRE
Don't worry! Besides, you see everything's on its way to breaking off. She comes to spend two or three months a year in Paris -- I see her three or four times during that interval -- she writes me long letters -- I have a trunk full and that's enough. She found a way to come to Dieppe. That would have been nice!
COUNT
Break it off, my friend, break it off! All these trivial liaisons, all these fashionable love affairs, all this is very hollow in short, and there comes a time --
ANDRE
When you have to settle down --
COUNT
Exactly.
ANDRE
When will you be disposed to settle down?
COUNT
What do you mean by that?
ANDRE
Practice some economy for example.
COUNT
Economy -- I'd like to, but I don't see what there is to do about it, we're living as modestly as possible -- this hotel belongs to us -- we have four saddle horses and four carriage horses and two for at night -- we couldn't do with less -- two coachmen, two valets, two stable hands, one cook. We don't even have an attendant --
ANDRE
That's all we need!
COUNT
We only receive men; we don't over do it at dinner -- as for me, I'm lunching on two eggs and a glass of water -- it seems to me that with our fortune --
ANDRE
Our fortune? Do you know what our fortune is?
COUNT
You ought to know better than I, since you've run the house since your majority --
ANDRE
Well, I know the expenses and you didn't list those of Paris and didn't mention those of the country.
COUNT
The country -- that's an economy.
ANDRE
Thus, you land at Vilsar's an economy.
COUNT
Naturally, we have everything there from eggs to beef.
ANDRE
And even deer when you feel like shooting one. Look, here's the situation at Vilsar, which you term an economy. First of all, it brings in nothing.
COUNT
It never did bring in anything.
ANDRE
There's a mortgage for 200,000 francs.
COUNT
That's from my youth.
ANDRE
Then you expect the mortgage will end by being paid off at the end of a certain time? I really hope so, but I think you are mistaken and while waiting, you are paying mortgage interest every year, ______ in this pleasant land.
COUNT
Where we spend September, October and November -- which is a real economy.
ANDRE
Furthermore, in this pleasant land where we spend September, October and November which is a real economy for us and the proofs we are going to Dieppe in the middle of September.
COUNT
Once, by chance! And besides we will really be forced to go there at the end of the month. I've invited a lot of gentleman to come hunting.
ANDRE
In the pleasant land where you've invited all these gentleman to go hunting at the end of the month.
COUNT
We'd die of boredom there but for that --
ANDRE
You have a dozen guards.
COUNT
Yes, but it's one of the prettiest hunting sites in France and there are so many poachers.
ANDRE
You have two huntsman, a pack of 40 dogs and all, then horses and the whole outfit for the hunt I don't mention the indemnities to the neighbors you have to pay every year, just for the rabbits.
COUNT
The fact is there are thousands. But shooting rabbits is so amusing.
ANDRE
Let's add to that the parties which you get it in your head to give from time to time with excursions on the lake and fireworks at night.
COUNT
That gives pleasure to the peasants who adore me, but between you and me it's really shabby. Ah, if I had been rick, I'd have done some fine things! People in France don't know how to spend money. In Russia, it's a different matter. Now these are people who know how to give a party! But what can you do on an income of 200 thousand pounds?
ANDRE
What you have done. Ruin oneself.
COUNT
What do you mean, ruin oneself?
ANDRE
At the death of my mother, your personal fortune was, indeed an income of 200,000 pounds -- and that which my mother left me -- of which you had the use until my majority -- 120,000.
COUNT
I gave you a full accounting.
ANDRE
Very exactly. Only --
(hesitating)
COUNT
Only?
ANDRE
Only you've cut deeply into your principal.
COUNT
Why didn't you tell me that at the time?
ANDRE
Because, I too, wanted nothing more than to spend money.
COUNT
You ought to have warned me.
ANDRE
But I was doing, naturally enough, what I saw you doing. I was living the way you taught me to live.
COUNT
That's not a reproach -- ?
ANDRE
God keep me from it! I'm only explaining to you why. I didn't manage your house better than you did yourself.
COUNT
Then, as for me, I'm going to explain to you why I raised you the way I did.
ANDRE
No need, my dear father. There's nothing to add on that subject. I know it very well.
COUNT
On the contrary, you know nothing at all about it, and it will be a consolation of you allow me to speak. Everything has a reason, even unreasonable things -- and if I raised you in certain way, it's because I had suffered from a different kind of education. I was raised very strictly - even as you see me. At 22 I knew nothing of life. I was born and was stayed at *Vislar with my father and my mother who were saints, my great uncle who had gout, and my tutor who was an abbey. Endowed with an iron constitution, I hunted for months at a time, one horse or on foot, I ate like an ogre, I mounted any kind of horse, and performed feats of arms like Saint George, but for the rest, there was nothing to think about -- I didn't have a shilling in my pocket, and as for women, I'd heard rumors there were some -- somewhere, but I didn't know where.
One day, my father asked me if I wanted to marry and I shouted, "Oh, yes", with an explosion before which he couldn't keep from laughing -- he who so seldom laughed. I was presented to a young girl of great fortune and great beauty. I instantly formed a passion for her, which at first terrified this delicate and timid creature, but one which she soon shared. It was your mother, my dear Andre, and I owe her the two happiest years of my life. It's true, also, that I owe her my greatest heartbreak, for she died at the end of two years -- but it must be said either to the shame or to the praise of nature, that constitutions like mine resist the greatest shocks. I found myself then, at 24, rich, widowed, free, and saddled with a child a year old, in the midst of this Parisian world which I didn't understand. Should I condemn myself to live the life I led in Vilsar which had so often bored me? I obeyed my nature. I gave you my good points and my faults without _____. I sought your affecting more than your obedience and your respect. I didn't teach you, economy, it's true -- but I didn't know it. Besides, I didn't have a business and a signboard -- to leave you. To place everything in common, our hearts and our praise -- to give all and to say all -- that was our place. Punctures righteously in condemn to great an intimacy -- let them talk -- we've lost, it appears some hundreds of thousands of francs -- but we've earned the ability to count on each other and to be always ready to kill for each other -- that's the most important thing between a father and a son; the rest isn't worth the trouble to bother about -- what do you think of that?
ANDRE
All that is true, my dear father, and I love you as you love me. Far away as can be is any idea of my reproaching you -- but, in my turn, I am going to make a confession. You are an exception in our society. Your restrained youth, your precious widowhood are your excuses -- if you have any need of them. Then you were born in an era when all france was in a fever -- and where individuals like the masses sought to discharge, in every way possible, a superabundance of vitality pushed towards the uproarious life by nature, by curiosity, by temperament, you loved things worthy of being loved: parties, hunting, beautiful horses, great artists, handsome, noble, and distinguished people. In the midst of all that, you paid your tribute to your country and acquitted the debt of your name and rank -- but as for me, like almost all my generation, initiated from childhood into the worldly life born in a time of lassitude and transition, I led that life of indulgence through imitation, through idleness. I didn't take to the ridicule, the disorder, the excess, the gambling, the orgies, the easy compromising women. In short, all things considered -- that's the word -- this life doesn't amuse me anymore, and I tell you it never did amuse me. To spend nights returning from card games, to rise at 2:00, hitch up the horses, take a tour of the lake, in a carriage or in an pathway with chums by horse -- to live by day with horse dealers and in the evening with parasites like de Tournas -- or girls like Albertine.
COUNT
She's pretty.
ANDRE
She's pretty -- so be it -- but to leave in the life the best part of your fortune, and sometimes the est of your feelings is to lose a little of its consideration and much of its troubles, while boring oneself and ruining oneself seems to me the completion of folly. At bottom, you think as I do, and since we're involved in serious explanations let's make an irrevocable decision. Do you want to let me dispose of your future life as I do my own life? Do you have confidence in me and after having brought me up in your fashion, do you want, while there is still time for me to bring you up in mine?
COUNT
Get out!
ANDRE
Well, for great evils, great remedies -- you want to keep your property at Vilsar?
COUNT
I was born there and I wouldn't be sorry to die there.
ANDRE
We are going to let you keep it -- find something else with which to pay off the mortgage.
COUNT
What else?
ANDRE
That doesn't concern me; only dismiss the two huntsmen and the six watchmen.
COUNT
Poor fellows!
ANDRE
You can't have more than four horses -- you won't give any more parties, there'll be no more fireworks, you'll only entertain two or three good friends from amongst all those we have today. You'll spend seven or eight months a year at Vilsar.
COUNT
All alone?
ANDRE
Wait a bit; I haven't finished. We'll have to sell this house -- kick out the servants who are thieves - and only have a pied a terre in Paris.
COUNT
Do you intend to let me breathe?
ANDRE
Don't budge or the operation will fail. After paying your debts you'll still have --
COUNT
Something left?
ANDRE
Forty thousand pounds income, and more from me -- and yet for two or three years you won't have any capital at your disposition.
COUNT
What a fall!
ANDRE
Do you accept?
COUNT
It's necessary.
ANDRE
Then sign here.
(pulling papers form his pocket)
COUNT
What's that?
ANDRE
There are papers I've just gotten from my notary and that I was counting on getting you to sign at Dieppe and returning them to him. But, since you are here --
COUNT
(signing)
To sign them right away, you're right.
ANDRE
Very good -- now, as in my opinion, as long as you remain ______ by yourself, you'll fall back into the same errors.
COUNT
What else are you going to do?
ANDRE
Guess!
COUNT
You are going to forbid me --
ANDRE
Are you crazy? I'm going to get you married.
COUNT
Married.
ANDRE
Without parole.
COUNT
And you?
ANDRE
Me -- lately -- let's begin.
COUNT
You know something?
ANDRE
What?
COUNT
They told you.
ANDRE
No one told me anything?
COUNT
Your word!
ANDRE
My word! Explain yourself.
COUNT
You alone had this idea of marriage.
ANDRE
I alone.
COUNT
So you deny -- sympathy!
ANDRE
What is it -- this time?
COUNT
It's --
(taking his son in his arms)
Heavens! Hug me.
ANDRE
Then you accept?
COUNT
Do I accept! The serious thing I wanted to tell you -- my serious thing.
ANDRE
Well?
COUNT
That's precisely it. Marriage! It's my fixed idea.
ANDRE
Since when?
COUNT
For the last month.
ANDRE
That's not very long. Why didn't you tell me about it.
COUNT
I was afraid to annoy you by giving you a new family.
ANDRE
As for me, I no longer count, I am no longer your son, I am your father!
COUNT
Why you are the prince of fathers. Come -- let's go!
ANDRE
Where are we going?
COUNT
To see a young girl.
ANDRE
What young girl?
COUNT
The one I want to marry.
ANDRE
One moment, it's not a question of a young girl.
COUNT
What's it question of then?
ANDRE
It's a question of a widow, steady --
COUNT
Madame Godefroy!
ANDRE
Madame Godefroy.
COUNT
A bourgeois woman.
ANDRE
An hones woman.
COUNT
Forty years old.
ANDRE
An income of 69,000 pounds.
COUNT
Who does her own grocery shopping --
ANDRE
You'll dine better.
COUNT
Marry her!
ANDRE
Why, as for me --
COUNT
Give me a thousand francs and send me to Saint Perine, it's much simpler. Madame Godefroy! You can't have looked at her! Why I'll go mad! You've seen her recently?
ANDRE
This morning.
COUNT
She asked for me in marriage?
ANDRE
Almost.
COUNT
She's a good woman.
ANDRE
Well! I assure you.
COUNT
But she's boring like rain. You want to joke, it's very funny. Now come see the other one. Twenty years old, not very tall, a little plump and with pretty neck motions like a big pigeon in the son, and blond! You always said you loved blonds -- so, you have nothing to object to.
ANDRE
It's not a question of me.
COUNT
Why yes, for I want my wife to please you.
ANDRE
And this young girl is -- ?
COUNT
Guess!
ANDRE
What do you expect?
COUNT
Helene de Brignai!
ANDRE
The niece of Madame de Chavry. Now it's you who are joking in your turn.
COUNT
Nothing is more serious.
ANDRE
(smiling)
You know something.
COUNT
What?
ANDRE
Madame Godefroy wrote you?
COUNT
Nothing at all. Explain yourself!
ANDRE
So you love Helene.
COUNT
I'm crazy about you.
ANDRE
And she?
COUNT
I haven't yet declared myself, not having your approval, but now that I have it, between you and me, I think I'll be well received.
ANDRE
And her aunt?
COUNT
Her aunt wants nothing better. We will go back to Dieppe, you'll see Helene again, you'll renew your acquaintance you'll question her on my subject, you'll make the offer in my name -- that's original enough -- you'll confess that I am less rich than they think me -- but that's not a consideration in that family -- and if she accepts in three months, I'll be married, settled, happy -- I'll become a model husband and an exemplar for family life! You will marry in your turn, and we'll all live together, wherever you like. What matter what place when you are happy? And we will be! What a beautiful life! What are you thinking about?
ANDRE
(serious)
You're really decided?
COUNT
Couldn't be more so.
ANDRE
And you will be happy?
COUNT
The happiest man in the world.
ANDRE
Then let's leave and do so quickly!
COUNT
(taking him by the head and kissing him forcefully)
I adore you.
(rings)
Joseph has just time enough to pack your trunks.
(opening the door and calling)
Joseph -- ah, I was forgetting I sent him out.
ANDRE
Where to.
COUNT
To take flowers to Miss Albertine.
ANDRE
That's what you call begin in love.
COUNT
An affair of habit -- but once married you understood --
(calling)
Jules! Jules!
ANDRE
(calling)
Victorine! She will be gone out with her family.
COUNT
(opening the window)
Pierre! Pierre! Nobody -- you're right. We've got to kick all these people out the door. Meanwhile, we'll pack ourselves. I think that will be the fastest thing to do.
(curtain)
A room in Mme. Chavry's home in Dieppe. Ms de Prailles is alone on stage as the curtain rises. He looks at his watch and then sets about writing.
(De Ligneroy appears with a servant.)
SERVANT
(to de Ligneroy)
The Marquise is with Miss Helene bathing. She begs whoever comes to see her to wait for her. All the same, it's already quarter to one.
DE LIGNEROY
That's few.
(the servant leaves)
(to De Prailles)
Ah, it's you, sir -- I ask your pardon, I didn't recognize you.
DE PRAILLES
It's not surprising. We've only known each other since yesterday. Still I will allow myself to charge you with a small commission to the Marquis. She was good enough after my arrival to invite me to a party that will take place tomorrow.
DE LIGNEROY
I know that, and I was just coming to see if the Court de la Rivonniere who is in charge of all the details of this little excursion has arrived.
DE PRAILLES
I am unaware of it -- I don't know Count de la Rivonniere -- and I just excused myself to the Marquis for breaking my word -- I am forced to return to Paris.
DE LIGNEROY
Today even?
DE PRAILLES
Right away. I waited for Madame the Marquise as long as I was able, but time is pressing me -- I was going to write her when you entered.
DE LIGNEROY
Can I ask you, sir, if it is bad news which recalls you to Paris?
DE PRAILLES
Madame de Prailles writes me that she is very ill and that she cannot come to join me for two or three days. I only came to Dieppe before her to retain our apartment and to spare her the boredom of moving in. I have no reason to remain here while she is suffering there. I don't know how to enjoy any pleasure she is deprived of in a like case and anyway, I would be too uneasy.
DE LIGNEROY
Didn't you say that her mother was with her?
DE PRAILLES
Yes, fortunately, but I am ridiculous -- in these days one is, I think -- to love my wife.
DE LIGNEROY
Why not love one's wife? One love's other folks --
DE PRAILLES
Then I can count, sir, on your presenting my excuses and regrets to Madame de Chavry.
DE LIGNEROY
Certainly.
DE PRAILLES
Thanks and goodbye, I hope -- if ever you came to Tours don't forget that I am two leagues away at the Chateau de Prailles -- 10 months out of 12 -- and that I would be happy to receive you there.
DE LIGNEROY
For my part, if I can ever be of some use to you in some way, dispose of me --
(The two men bow to each other as Natin enters. De Prailles leaves.)
DE NATIN
Hello, my dear Ligneroy.
DE LIGNEROY
Hello, my dear Natin.
DE NATIN
What's that gentleman?
DE LIGNEROY
That's the de Prailles who came yesterday with a letter from Madame de Grige for the Marquise. He's returning to Paris.
DE NATIN
Ah -- so that's Mr. de Prailles?
DE LIGNEROY
You know him?
DE NATIN
No -- but I've heard him spoken of. He's married?
DE LIGNEROY
Yes.
DE NATIN
It won't last.
DE LIGNEROY
Really?
DE NATIN
His wife is very pretty and it seems --
DE LIGNEROY
Who told you that?
DE NATIN
I've heard tell --
DE LIGNEROY
So be it: but don't repeat it too much. First of all because it's unnecessary -- then because the husband doesn't joke by way of jealousy. He's the most gallant man in the world -- but he'll kill you a gentleman without raising an eyebrow. It's happened to him once already -- and for a wife that wasn't his.
DE NATIN
Well, he can be tranquil because I'm not the one paying court to Madame de Prailles -- has Rivonniere's father returned?
DE LIGNEROY
Not yet -- but he's expected.
DE NATIN
So much the better! I miss him. I'd like to see his _____ blue ties, and his little gaiters. And where's his marriage?
DE LIGNEROY
Is he getting married?
DE NATIN
You cannot have any doubt of it! He went to Paris to find his old birth certificate and all his silk trousers.
DE LIGNEROY
And he's marrying?
DE NATIN
You know him better than I; the niece of the mistress of the house. All the same, it's the fashion these days. All the old man many young women. They dress them up, they put short bridles on them and send them prancing on the Champs Elysee from 4-6. It's a funny idea they have.
DE LIGNEROY
It's indeed necessary for the old to marry since the young don't want to. It's you who ought to sigh for Mlle de Brignar.
DE NATIN
There you are like my father who absolutely will have it that I marry --
DE LIGNEROY
Well?
DE NATIN
Well -- I don't intend to.
DE LIGNEROY
You prefer Albertine.
DE NATIN
You're going to speak ill of Titine again?
DE LIGNEROY
Very likely.
DE NATIN
Decidedly, you don't love her?
DE LIGNEROY
One cannot love her all one's life.
DE NATIN
She's not angry with you.
DE LIGNEROY
There's a pretty expression! It's as if you said a train didn't like travelers.
DE NATIN
She told me she didn't know you.
DE LIGNEROY
She must have forgotten it was so long ago.
DE NATIN
How old is she?
DE LIGNEROY
Thirty-five.
DE NATIN
Get out!
DE LIGNEROY
Thirty-five?
DE NATIN
She doesn't show it -- she's pretty.
DE LIGNEROY
She will be so long as she waits now -- the hard part is done. It's nothing more than a question of patience or perfumery.
DE NATIN
She's a good girl.
DE LIGNEROY
She's the one who shay so.
DE NATIN
I've actually seen her cry.
DE LIGNEROY
Like crocodiles -- when they are digesting --
DE NATIN
And then she's a woman of wit?
DE LIGNEROY
Because she has 30,000 pounds of income.
DE NATIN
That's not so dumb!
DE LIGNEROY
After you, she will have 35 which will be less stupid still.
DE NATIN
I'd rather like to see that.
DE LIGNEROY
You will see it. You've taken the best seat to see it.
DE NATIN
You don't know Albertine, she doesn't spend anything.
DE LIGNEROY
That's really what I reproach her for -- you're having an affair with an economical courtesan, old boy, the most dangerous of the species. As for the rest, this am_____ race, half Aspasia, half miser, is a recent product of our stupid progress in matters of love. Once these ladies were born in a shed and died no matter where. That served them as an excuse before and earned them pardon afterwards.
Gaiety, carelessness, prodigality accompanied them the length of the route. Love even sometimes went part of the way with them. They were always crazy -- often good, sometimes devoted, if you were ruined you were ruined with them and not by them -- in any event, you were ruined with style and you did honor to your money. Today one is ruined sadly, without laughter, as if you were forcing yourself to do it.
These ladies have only one idea, to have a house of one's own. So they are no longer living beings they are a type of robots, driven by invisible and mysterious wheels -- like the tree of a steammill. Having seized the little finger of one hasn't the presence of mind and courage to sacrifice it right away, the whole body follows -- and it's such a poor grain of wheat which gives up its share of fashion under this grindstone which keeps turning. Everything is tallied up. These ladies keep a book of receipts and expenses like a licensed tradesman and if a young and naive lover fumbles through their drawers searching for the letters of rival, he'll find a notebook ruled in two columns -- one side reserved from Mr. X -- a thousand francs and on the other -- vegetables - 2 sous -- you love her at least?
DE NATIN
Albertine? No -- I don't love her.
DE LIGNEROY
Then what are you doing in this gallery -- rowing for others. That's a job for a dupe. Do what your father tells you -- marry but not with Albertine.
DE NATIN
What do you take me for?
DE LIGNEROY
Hey, old man, it's their mania -- these ladies want to get themselves married and they succeed at it sometimes -- you begin by mining yourself for them -- and then when you've got nothing you marry them to have something. It's sad but it's seen.
DE NATIN
But my good fellow, you who counsel marriage -- why don't you get married yourself.
DE LIGNEROY
Too late.
DE NATIN
What do you mean too late? How old are you?
DE LIGNEROY
Thirty-eight.
DE NATIN
That's not much --
DE LIGNEROY
As to quantity no -- but as to quality.
DE NATIN
I think you're still in good shape.
DE LIGNEROY
Damn! For you, I am even more than sufficient, but for a woman -- there's no one in the world that I detest enough to make her such a gift - I have atrocious neuralgia, I have a worse stomach. If I dine out I am sick for a week -- and finally I wear flannel -- it's red, it's light and it's stitched -- there ar some decorations on it -- whatever you like -- but it's flannel --
In short, I'm in the state you'll be in when you reach my age -- if you've continued this life of Albertine's that we all lead, which people's families with poor husbands and society with poor children. Marry or you'll be like me, a broken clock, which stops all the time and spends its life in the repair shop -- you're biography will be summed up like mine in four words -- used without having been used. (Second hand but unused). And to say that I had such a good mother, such good sentiments and such good health and that I sacrificed it all, mocked everything, ruined everything, to imitate a pack of fools -- ! Ah, let's not talk about that anymore. I am becoming furious -- turn around a little --
(De Natin turns without understanding why -- De Ligneroy turns without understanding why -- De Ligneroy examines his arms and knees.)
DE LIGNEROY
Get married, old boy, get married -- you won't go so far as me --
DE NATIN
You're not very cheerful today.
COUNT
(entering)
Gentlemen --
DE NATIN
(aside)
Ah -- here's ______ _____)
Hello, Count.
COUNT
Hello, young man.
DE NATIN
You've arrived?
COUNT
Just now.
DE LIGNEROY
You are welcome. This kid is not amusing.
COUNT
He's young -- he's young.
DE LIGNEROY
Weren't we like him?
COUNT
You, perhaps -- you are already from a bad period. How's the gastritis?
DE LIGNEROY
It's fine. And your heart.
COUNT
Heart's still there.
DE NATIN
What did you go to do in Paris?
COUNT
What you probably wouldn't do with your 22 years. I arrived at Paris and left an hour later for Boulogne -- I returned to Paris and I left again, for Dieppe and here I am -- ! I haven't slept in 48 hours, but I will sleep tonight.
DE NATIN
Did love have something to do with it?
COUNT
I don't say no.
DE NATIN
Then you're still amorous?
COUNT
I don't recall three months having passed that I haven't been [without being so] what do you want? I cannot find myself alone five minutes with a woman without paying her court.
DE NATIN
So long as she's not old at least.
COUNT
Alas, there are no more old woman.
DE NATIN
Since when?
COUNT
Since you others, young men don't ask more of women than being beautiful -- women don't occupy themselves any more with their beauty. So -- beauty disappears with youth and men disappear with beauty. To avoid a certain age, women who cannot accustom themselves to the idea of solitude and abandonment, struggle with nature by means of unguents, whiteners, rouge, powder, false hair, and dyed hair -- a ridiculous and daily struggle and forgetting they are mothers and sometimes grandmothers they come like ghosts across the uproar of the ballroom and under the light of candles to dispute with young women the pleasures of their youth and to wrest from them a last lingering lover. Formerly it was otherwise. Education facilitated for women the transformation of different ages.
Then, our mothers knew how to age. Bravely and ingenuously they accepted grey hair and wrinkles, they replaced beauty with wit, youth with grace, gallantry with good humor, love with friendship. Instead of fleeing their homes, young men solicited admission to them -- for they held schools of good manners for bon ton and fine language. Finally -- there was the _____ of good company and a man who was commi il fant had truly taken a course with them. You have changed all that! You smoke at the ladies or you don't go there. You speak to them with your hat on your head -- and God knows of who or what you speak -- ! Your heart no longer makes conquests it only makes acquisitions, and if by chance a refined woman loves you she must give herself as quickly as others sell themselves -- young folks, young folks -- you've killed the only good thing there is in life -- right, de Ligneroy?
DE LIGNEROY
I no longer have an opinion on that subject and haven't -- for a long while.
COUNT
That's what you've come to. Ah, I pity you, my boy! I'm 50 years old, believe me if you will -- at 20, I was no longer young! When I meet in the street a little grisette with her little bonnet tucked back, her sly look and her indian dress -- there I am as emotional as a school boy.
I smile at her in spite of myself, as to a friend. She recognizes immediately in this smile, a spontaneous homage to youth and beauty -- and she cannot prevent smiling in her turn -- woman discover so quickly men who love them -- and age means nothing!
You no longer love you say? Would you like to love again? Stay by your window in the beginning of April and look at the women who came and go through the streets of Paris. Their step is firm and sonorous -- their necks appear all white between their collars and their hats - their glance is clear, their lips are red -- each of them bears in her -- with a ray of new sunlight the inner and mysterious trembling of nature awakening and you feel it as she goes in all her person -- confident and resolute -- towards this eternal sensation of love -- always the same and always different.
DE NATIN
(aside)
Has he succeeded enough?
DE LIGNEROY
They don't make them like you any more.
COUNT
My word, I think so -- there are no more young folks -- or is it that they no longer wish to appear young? What has happened to them? Is it a style they're affecting? They are wrong! It's so easy and so charming to remain as God made you. Nature gave you a heart -- love! -- tears -- weep! The sensation will be more or less lengthy -- but it will be -- that's the important thing -- and your organization will have done its duty -- but -- positively there's decadence -- take my son, he ought to be like me -- he's well made and he's a very sturdy guy -- it's not enough any more! I was watching him just now in the train sleeping instead of admiring the country which is marvel leaving Rouen -- he slept -- he had to be awakened to produce his ticket -- you see -- he's supposed to meet me here he hasn't come. He'll arrive all sweaty in an hour.
(pointing to de Natin)
And look at this other fellow over here who laughs at me because I've been singing the prizes of love. O youth -- what are you coming it?
MARQUISE
(entering with Helen)
It's very nice of you, gentleman, to have waited for us -- Hello, Count -- that what I call being punctual -- good!
HELENE
(to Count)
Finally, it's you! I was waiting for you impatiently.
COUNT
Really?
HELENE
It's so boring when you're not here those two days seemed deadly to me.
DE NATIN
Your health is good, miss?
HELENE
Excellent, sir.
DE NATIN
What beautiful weather.
HELENE
Magnificent weather.
DE NATIN
We must hope it will last.
HELENE
Oh, yes, the wind is from the north.
(to the Count)
That's all they know how to say.
(she takes her aunt's cap and shawl into the wings)
DE NATIN
(to the Marquise)
Your health is good, Madame?
MARQUISE
Excellent, sir -- what beautiful weather.
DE NATIN
Magnificent weather.
MARQUISE
IT's to be hoped it will last.
DE NATIN
Oh, yes -- the wind is from the north.
MARQUISE
(to Count)
And your son?
COUNT
He's going to come.
MARQUISE
Have you spoken to him?
COUNT
Yes.
MARQUISE
And he approves?
COUNT
Completely.
MARQUISE
Everything's fine then?
COUNT
And you -- have you spoken to Miss Helen?
MARQUISE
Not yet. I was waiting for you -- but I'm going to discuss it with her.
COUNT
Right away?
MARQUISE
If you like.
COUNT
No -- wait for Andre.
MARQUISE
What's the matter?
COUNT
My heart's pounding -- word of honor!
MARQUISE
Then you're really in love?
COUNT
Like a madman.
MARQUISE
And you're afraid?
COUNT
Like a child.
MARQUISE
I can tell you ont thing -- Helene never ceases to talk about you.
COUNT
Do you know what I'd do while you and my son talk with Helen?
(pointing to the door at the left)
I'm going to stay there. You can hear what's said from there.
MARQUISE
Perfectly.
COUNT
If you see things are going badly, I'm going to escape.
MARQUISE
Coward!
HELENE
(to the Count and approaching him)
What were you saying there?
MARQUISE
We were talking about the party tomorrow.
HELENE
It's still on?
COUNT
More than ever.
HELENE
You've thought about it?
COUNT
That's all I've thought about.
HELENE
Then tomorrow we're going to lunch at Treport and we'll return by boat in the evening?
COUNT
That's the plan.
HELENE
Seeing you leave for Paris, I thought you'd forgotten.
COUNT
I only went to Paris to expedite it.
HELENE
What is there that has to be done about it in Paris?
COUNT
A lot: We have to order the dinner.
HELENE
You had to order it in Paris?
COUNT
Naturally.
DE NATIN
And the boat, too?
COUNT
No -- the boat I ordered elsewhere.
DE NATIN
Here?
COUNT
(to De Natin)
Look, young man, how would you take the Marquise and her niece to Treport tomorrow -- by sea if they fantasized going there for lunch and returning the same way?
DE NATIN
It's really simple, I would call a fisherman and I sent his boat. He would take us to Treport. I would order dinner in a hotel or in a restaurant. Nothing would be lacking. I would make made these ladies visit Treport while lunch was prepared and would bring them back afterwards.
COUNT
That way, you would have put fashionable women in a boat smelling of fish and pitch -- you would have made them go to a hotel smelling of soup and pipe smoke, and you would think you had done what they asked of you?
DE NATIN
There's no other way.
COUNT
Here's what one would have done in my time -- you would have written Ratsey, the great English builder at Lowes asking him to fit out immediate -- with his crew of sailors, one of the yachts which he always has at his disposition on the Thames -- one would soon depart for Treport where one would rent one of the elegant houses which border the beach. The house rented one would return to Paris where one would have dispatched flowers to the aforesaid house -- you would give to Patel the menu for wine and for lunch and on the day agreed, at the hour set -- he would have served us by the sea, amongst the flowers -- a meal worthy of women who had done us the honor of confiding themselves to us and the friends who accompanied them. That's how we used to do things. That's how we ought to do them again -- finally that's what I did; so well that now I have nothing more to say to my guests than, "We're leaving tomorrow at 9:00 -- lunching at 12:00 and returning whenever you please. We've got the boat and the house -- the sea is always there.
MARQUISE
Come on, you are magnificent.
DE NATIN
Bravo, my dear Count! Receive my compliment.
DE LIGNEROY
And what does your son say about that?
COUNT
He doesn't know anything about it. I beg you, just between ourselves to tell him it's you who organized the thing the way it is.
DE LIGNEROY
I'd like nothing better but he'll recognize your handiwork right away.
COUNT
(to Helen)
My little friend is satisfied?
HELENE
Your little friend is ashamed.
COUNT
Of what?
HELENE
Of having a fantasy that led you to such madness.
COUNT
Would you like to be even with me.
HELENE
I see only one way -- it's to outfit a frigate and take you on a tour of the world.
COUNT
Don't propose that! I would go -- no -- there's a simple way.
HELENE
Which is?
COUNT
To give me your hand.
HELENE
(giving him her hand)
And then?
COUNT
And then to permit me to kiss it.
HELENE
And then?
COUNT
That's all. We are even.
HELENE
I give you that all the time and for nothing. That's not enough.
COUNT
Take care! Don't go to far -- I am capable of asking terrible things.
HELENE
What things?
COUNT
Later.
HELENE
No -- right now.
COUNT
Impossible now -- my son has to be here.
HELENE
Your son.
COUNT
Yes.
HELENE
I don't understand at all. Is he going to arrive soon?
COUNT
In an instant.
HELENE
He's going to ask me terrible things in your name?
COUNT
In my name.
HELENE
Something I can grant?
COUNT
They depend only one you.
HELENE
Then if they depend entirely on me, they are granted in advance.
MARQUISE
(to de Ligneroy)
How are you today?
DE LIGNEROY
As well as possible.
MARQUISE
Take care of yourself. If not for yourself, then do it for your friends.
(giving him her hand)
DE LIGNEROY
Ah, I was forgetting to tell you.
SERVANT
(announcing)
The Vicomte de la Rivonniere --
(Helene starts.)
COUNT
(to Helen)
What's wrong with you?
HELENE
That servant gave me a start.
ANDRE
(entering)
Is there still time to present oneself, Madame?
MARQUISE
It's eight years we haven't seen you, and we've been expecting you for a week. What excuse do you have to give.
ANDRE
I haven't any.
MARQUISE
That's the best. You are pardoned.
(she presents de Ligneroy)
Mr. de Ligneroy.
(the two men bow to each other)
HELENE
(to the Count as Andre kisses her aunt's hand and shaking hands with De Natin the Count blocks Helene from Andre's view)
Don't budge. I am curious to see if he will recognize me.
MARQUISE
You see your father's occupation. He spends his life this way -- he didn't even hear his son announced.
ANDRE
Miss Helene not here!
MARQUISE
You don't recognize her, then?
ANDRE
I suppose she is because I see her there -- for she's quite changed. I left her a child and I find her a woman. Decidedly my father is a man of taste.
HELENE
They are speaking of us.
COUNT
Positively.
MARQUISE
Look -- why haven't we seen you sooner?
ANDRE
All these days I wanted to leave -- and all these days I was detained.
MARQUISE
You don't recognize her then?
ANDRE
I suppose she is because I see her there -- for she's quite changed. I left her a child and I find his a woman. Decidedly my father is a man of taste.
HELENE
They are speaking of us.
COUNT
Positively.
MARQUISE
Look -- why haven't we seen you sooner?
ANDRE
All these days I wanted to leave -- and all these days I was detained.
MARQUISE
By your heart.
ANDRE
Oh! God, no!
MARQUISE
Still, the heart must be hereditary in the family -- that's not something the Count lacks --
ANDRE
My father has more of it than I.
MARQUISE
He's an excellent creature!
ANDRE
He's the best of men.
MARQUISE
You love him?
ANDRE
I adore him, and he abuses it.
COUNT
(to Helen)
Well, how do you like him? He's a handsome land, isn't he?
HELENE
I don't know much about it, but it seems so to me.
COUNT
And good!
HELENE
Really!
COUNT
And full of wit.
HELENE
You love him -- you son?
COUNT
I adore him.
HELENE
How sweet that is -- a father and son to love each other that way! He's looking our way. Let's looks as though we don't see him.
MARQUISE
(to Andre)
You still must review your acquaintance with Helene -- if only so as to tell her all the serious things you have to communicate to her -- for you know he expects you to do that.
(calling)
Helene.
HELENE
Auntie.
(she rises and goes to her aunt)
MARQUISE
Your old friend Andre de la Rivonniere.
HELENE
(ceremoniously)
Sir.
ANDRE
Miss.
(Helene moves away)
COUNT
(to his son)
What are you saying?
ANDRE
I pay you my compliment, but I find she's a little frigid toward me.
COUNT
It's a little girl's malice we are going to leave you together -- all depends on you now. I've told her you have something to say to her.
ANDRE
They came just now to the hotel to bring a letter for you.
COUNT
Where is it?
ANDRE
They wouldn't give it to me. They seemed to have received an instruction to refuse the younger Rivonniere -- I told the messenger that if the letter was urgent they could send it to you here.
COUNT
That's it.
MARQUISE
(to Helen)
You were quite ceremonious with Andre.
ALBERTINE
I don't know what to say to him.
MARQUISE
Go to him. I'm sure he'll find a subject for conversation.
(Helene goes to Andre.)
MARQUISE
(to the Count)
Tell my count, is the yacht in the harbor.
COUNT
Since yesterday.
DE LIGNEROY
De Natin, would you like to come see it?
DE NATIN
Very willingly.
MARQUISE
We will expect you for dinner, right gentlemen?
DE NATIN
Yes, Madame.
(They leave. The Count moves off with the Marquise.)
(Helene and Andre are alone.)
ANDRE
Must I content myself, miss with the greeting you just gave me or may I hope to become your friend as before, as your mother authorizes me.
HELENE
My friend! I ask nothing better but first I need to know many things -- these days when one hasn't seen people for eight years you don't know what's become of them. Will you answer me frankly?
ANDRE
Interrogate me.
HELENE
Do you belong to a club?
ANDRE
Yes, but I never got there.
HELENE
Are you forced to smoke immediately after dinner?
ANDRE
I only smoke on a trip.
HELENE
Do you have horses?
ANDRE
Alas, yes.
HELENE
And do you always talk about them?
ANDRE
I sometimes talk about them with my coachman.
HELENE
(very solemnly)
And do you swear all you've just told me is true?
ANDRE
(just as solemnly)
I swear it to you.
HELENE
How superior you are to other men! Oh, yes! Be my friend. I don't permit it, I demand it.
ANDRE
Are you still gay?
HELENE
Still -- and you.
ANDRE
Me, too.
HELENE
God be praised -- ! For all these little gentlemen are lugubrious -- how you are looking at me.
ANDRE
I am happy to see you again.
HELENE
I say as much of you.
ANDRE
Honor bright?
HELENE
Honor bright.
ANDRE
You received me badly just now!
HELENE
That was to punish you for not having come for the last month.
ANDRE
I am more punished than you think.
HELENE
How's that?
ANDRE
In seeing all I lost during this month and that will be very difficult.
HELENE
No -- for we will see each other often -- do you think me much changed?
ANDRE
Yes, I was saying so just now to your aunt. I would not have recognized you -- why you are --
HELENE
Much improved - right? This little sweetmeats was inevitable. Why, as for me, I would have recognized you -- it's all natural! You were already 18 when we parted. The last time we saw each other was in the country. You came on horseback. You were a little -- can I speak freely?
ANDRE
Yes.
HELENE
You were a little too satisfied with yourself.
ANDRE
You noticed that -- at 12 years of age?
HELENE
At 12 one notices many things -- you recall our walks in the Luxembourg? And the fairy tales?
ANDRE
Which we amused ourselves by illustrating in the evenings?
HELENE
I still have that book. Come with me. No -- wait for me -- wait for me but, I'll be back --
(she runs out -- Andre becomes rather pensive. The Marquise enters)
MARQUISE
Well?
ANDRE
We were talking about our childhood.
MARQUISE
And the Count.
ANDRE
The past led us far from the future, and then -- frankly -- this situation is starting to embarrass me much more than I thought and I don't know how I undertook to ask a young girl with whom I played jump rope to be my stepmother. Only you, Madame, can fulfill this mission -- many of those who decide my father are worth less than he, but still, he's reached that period of life where the persistence of qualities appropriate to youth may appear as a fault -- and even ridiculous -- to one who is truly young -- I beg you to present his request to Miss Helen, in a way that if she refuses at least she cannot laugh at the one who made it. He would suffer a lot by it and all illusion is respectable when it comes from our heart.
MARQUISE
That's speaking like a good son.
ANDRE
That's not all -- there remains the maternal question. My father is completely ruined -- he doesn't know it at all. I've hidden this disaster from him -- which perhaps he wouldn't bear philosophically enough -- there remains to me 80,000 pounds of income, I plan to share it with him without his knowing it.
MARQUISE
Why are you full of heart?
ANDRE
No, Madame -- I am doing for my father what he would do for me -- that's all --
HELENE
(returning and giving a book to Andre)
Here!
ANDRE
I recognize it. There's the blue bird.
HELENE
It's painted green. Decidedly you have no talent for painting.
ANDRE
Would you give me this book?
HELENE
Never.
ANDRE
(emotionally)
Goodbye, Miss.
HELENE
You're angry with me.
ANDRE
Oh, no.
HELENE
Why are you going away, then?
MARQUISE
The Vicomte is going to rejoin his father. I have to talk with you.
HELENE
What's it all about?
MARQUISE
In a minute.
(to Andre)
Soon --
(low)
Your father is back -- he's there.
(Andre leaves)
MARQUISE
Look -- my dear child, let's have a little talk.
HELENE
About what, my dear Aunt?
MARQUISE
About marriage. Does the subject displease you.
HELENE
No more than any other.
MARQUISE
Have you chosen?
HELENE
I haven't seen anyone.
MARQUISE
And all the young men that have been presented to you.
HELENE
They don't count. There must be others.
MARQUISE
Perhaps they will be later, but for the moment there aren't any more.
HELENE
We'll find them -- there's plenty of time.
MARQUISE
And if you don't find them.
HELENE
I'll be satisfied to remain single.
MARQUISE
Perhaps, also, you are a bit demanding -- what do you want your husband to be like --
HELENE
As he likes -- so long as I love him!
MARQUISE
And he loves you?
HELENE
Naturally --
MARQUISE
We're not getting anywhere.
HELENE
I still see happy wives.
MARQUISE
In our world -- no. You see wives that are elegant, carefree, rich coquettes -- unconcerned -- you don't see happy wives --
HELENE
Then my destiny under the pretext that I had the honor to be born rich, and noble is to be perfectly wretched -- to marry a man -- this one or another one so long as he has a name and a social position equivalent to mine -- to go with him into society in the winter, into the country in summer, to make an receive visits -- all that during a certain number of years -- after which one of us will lose the other with the same calm that will have presided over all the acts of the business association. Why this perspective is as gay as the big avenue at the century -- and sends a shiver through my body -- at the sole thought of a joy so simple and so lasting!
MARQUISE
Won't you have your children to love.
HELENE
Listen, my dear aunt, I've reflected sometimes, actually often and since we are about it I am going to tell you the result of my reflections since today I find them even more sensible from 16 -- you know as well as I do for it's not so long since you were a young girl -- from 16 -- leaving this ignorance willingly -- all girls, rich or poor are only concerned with one thing: marriage. It's the great curiosity, a great mystery -- how and who will be my husband? Where is he? We begin at first by picturing him as a big, handsome, romantic eyes raised to heaven he crosses the mountains to get to us.
Then we enter in society, alas! Hardly do we compare the dreamed-of husband with the husband that is possible -- when we see our poor ideal go to pieces. Some falling into an excess of contrariness, and thinking they are unable to obtain the destiny they were ambitious of ask only noise, pleasure and worldly fuss from marriage -- others sincerely consulting their nature, their tastes and telling themselves there are conditions of happiness that are eternal like sunlight, because God himself has wished it -- it's youth, it's faith, it's the intelligence of prosperity, it's the love of children for parents of a wife for her husband of a mother for her children -- with this conviction the young girl must find if not the poetic knight she dreamed of at least a young man, honest and good who -- can dispose of her life -- and feeling in her as in himself the good will to tell her, "I esteem you, I love you, be my wife. Let's join together not to couple our escutcheons and write our fortunes, but to love each other sincerely, to bring to both the joys and sorrows of this world - to be a force and an example." Well, my dear aunt, the day when I find that man -- so much the better if he is my caste, but little matter if he is not. I'll marry him. For the important thing you see is not to be noble, it's not to be rich, it's to be happy.
MARQUISE
(hugging her)
Dear child!
(Count entering towards the end of her speech with Andre, who remains at the back very moved -- after looking at his son, he comes toward Helene.)
COUNT
Let me embrace you, too.
HELENE
Astonished!
COUNT
You've made me cry -- you really owe me this -- what an orator -- come -- come here, Andre, you are not unwanted.
HELENE
You heard me then?
COUNT
Behind the door, quite well, but reassure yourself, my child, it was with your aunt's authorization.
HELENE
What's that signify?
COUNT
It signifies, dear adorable child, that there is in the world and not very far from you a man who had the ambition to make you his wife. That man was a fool for he's nearly three times your age -- but he heard the good words you said -- they recalled him to the time when he was a father -- and when he had nothing better to ask of life than the joys of paternity -- then he looked at his son who was near him and seeing him moved and trembling at your words he discovered everything and said to himself, "This man of whom Helene speaks -- that she ought to love, that she does love -- I'm holding his hand -- he's noble, honest and good - and I feel from the shivering of his hand that he's going to love her as she wants him to love her -- that he loved this child already -- and if I loved this child I loved her through him and for him -- for this man is more than my heart -- he's my son -- meaning the heart of my heart --
ANDRE
(throwing himself into the Count's arms)
Father.
HELENE
(very moved)
Sir!
COUNT
My dear Marquise I asked you for the hand of your niece but I forgot to tell you it was for my son --
ANDRE
(approaching Helen)
I feel in you as in me good will. I esteem you, I love you -- be my wife -- let's join together not to couple our ___________ and unite our fortunes but to love each other sincerely -- to bring each other the joys and sorrows of this world -- to be a force and an example.
HELENE
How much time do you give me to consider?
ANDRE
All the time you like -- for the time you employ to decide I will employ to prove to you that I love you.
HELENE
Well -- we shall see.
COUNT
My word - it's nice to cry isn't it Marquise.
MARQUISE
Oh -- this honest happened to me for a long while -- I thought I'd lost my tears.
COUNT
You're always got tears as long as you've got children.
DE LIGNEROY
(entering)
(to the Marquise)
Well --
MARQUISE
There's been some news, I'll answer for that! And your friend, De Natin -- where is he?
DE LIGNEROY
We were returning together when he met a lady he wanted to greet.
DE NATIN
Am I late, Madame?
MARQUISE
No -- not at all.
DE NATIN
Can you believe I met Albertine who was walking peacefully on the beach with her little dog? May the devil take them!
DE LIGNEROY
Oh -- the poor dog - what's he done to you?
SERVANT
A letter for the Count.
COUNT
(to the Marquise)
You'll excuse me, Madame?
MARQUISE
Aren't you at home, now?
COUNT
(reading)
"Here I am at Dieppe until tomorrow -- and I remind you of your promise -- it will be all the more easy for you to keep it as I am staying in the same hotel you are.
(The Count looks around him and sees that his son and Helene are in a discussion.)
COUNT
They're not thinking of me anymore already.
(to Servant)
Say I will come.
(aside)
Why not since here I am a bachelor again?
(curtain)
Andre's apartment.
(Helen, standing in a pen____ -- Andre holding her hands -- seated before her.)
HELENE
(trying to get away)
Now let me go get dressed.
ANDRE
Later.
HELENE
What more do you want.
ANDRE
I want to tell you I love you.
HELENE
And when you told me that?
ANDRE
I'll tell you again -- don't we have an account to settle. I've been away for days.
HELENE
I think the balance is made up --
ANDRE
All the same, tell me again one more time that you love me!
HELENE
As much as you wish. I love you -- I love you. Is that enough.
(Andre makes him sit and puts herself at his knees)
If someone were to enter --
ANDRE
Who could enter?
HELENE
Your father! We ought to leave together?
ANDRE
For?
HELENE
To go pay some visits.
ANDRE
To whom?
HELENE
To all sorts of persons.
ANDRE
All sorts of persons are boring.
HELENE
That's no reason to be impolite to them. I thought you weren't coming back until tomorrow -- that's why I engaged myself -- if you don't want me to go, let's tell your father.
ANDRE
First of all there's no reason to inform my father who lives with us -- then pay your visits. I am not preventing you. I will dress you myself.
HELENE
Thanks. You do it very badly. The other night, at the Ball, Madame Grige asked me who had "arranged" me -- that's the word -- like I was -- I never dared to tell her that it was you who not only dressed me, but who even chose my dress.
ANDRE
Wasn't the dress nice?
HELENE
(showing her neck)
It came up to here. I looked like a schoolgirl.
ANDRE
You were sufficiently decollete not to be very hot -- it's the low cut dressed which little by little evaporate feminine modesty. You don't understand that the murmur of admiration that caresses your naked shoulders is only disguised insult! If I were a woman, I would judge the sincerity of a man who said he loved me by the corsage he let me wear.
HELENE
But all the world --
ANDRE
All the world! I don't know anybody named "All the world!" All the world has a horror of people who love each other -- of chaste women and jealous men -- because all the world has nothing to gain from them -- while all the world profits from coquettish women -- indifferent husbands and shoulders that never end -- all the world is a bad sort who creates theories to his benefit -- thus, it's all the world who says -- "He must love his wife in a certain manner -- the spouse who will be mother of the family has greater need of respect than love -- Leave these transports, these jealousies, these violent outbursts to passing loves," which means "Suppress passion in marriage, so that marriage will be boring -- and when your wife is bored -- as for me, flee the world, I will console her". Well, as for me, I am not of the opinion of all the world -- to those who marry from reason ____ ______ I give the freedom to spin out theories of marriage -- I understand them -- but as for me who married you because I loved you -- I love you that's all -- and that word has only one sense: Kiss me!
(The Count opens the door -- but seeing the posture of the two young people who don't hear him, he shuts the door and remains outside.)
HELENE
And when we are old?
ANDRE
We shall see, anyway -- one has only not to grow old.
HELENE
You have to do it.
ANDRE
No need -- we can do like my father.
HELENE
It's true, but --
ANDRE
Are you displeased to be loved the say you are loved?
HELENE
Oh, no -- I am indeed happy -- but I ask myself who taught you to love this way?
ANDRE
It's you.
HELENE
(doubtfully)
I wish it were so.
ANDRE
What's wrong with you?
HELENE
(low)
I am jealous.
ANDRE
And of whom are you jealous?
HELENE
I don't know -- which is more horrible -- I am jealous of your past, which I don't know and which belongs to you more than to me.
ANDRE
Child!
HELENE
Yes, it's with words like that that you men catch us -- "Child"! And you -- think you've said everything and you've explained everything. But those who say that your wife needs respect more than love are perhaps, right -- for before her, you loved others, that you didn't respect since none of them received your name. Your respect is thus a new form of your love which belongs to us without sharing. How many women have you told that you loved them? I's horrible when I think of it -- and then I see you there at my feet, I say to myself, "It's a habit" and I torment myself -- for I want the impossible -- that you'd never loved anyone but me and that you were mine completely.
ANDRE
You want to know everything?
HELENE
Yes.
ANDRE
And you'll believe me?
HELENE
I ask nothing more than to believe you.
ANDRE
Well, yes -- I have told other women that I loved them. And now, listen carefully to this but don't be abusive of it -- there doesn't exist a woman so clever, so beautiful, however much loved she may be, who can give her lover the hundredth part of the emotion which is given in an instant to the spouse who has chosen a young girl who is going to receive from him the revelation of love. Our wit, our heart, our senses, all our faculties find in the first expansion of this inexperienced soul, at once timid and curious -- a sensation so absolute that it destroys all but her -- so elevated that no one else can reach it, so complete that we are never allowed to test it a second time. All men who have not known it, and who pretend to have loved, are mad -- to be laughed at, and one who in marriage believes himself able to forego it, is a wretch to be pitied -- don't worry -- I belong completely to you.
(The Count enters on these last words and approaches softly -- Helen, who wants to hug Andre winds up embracing the Count.)
HELENE
(with a little exclamation)
Ah!
COUNT
Pay no attention: It's me -- I saw a kiss coming and I caught it. Whose it for?
HELENE
For andre.
COUNT
(hugging Andre)
Well, I pass it on to you. When did you get back?
ANDRE
An hour ago.
COUNT
What's wrong with you? You seem annoyed.
ANDRE
Nothing's the matter.
COUNT
You are satisfied with your trip?
ANDRE
Yes, all your business is finished.
COUNT
Completely -- completely?
ANDRE
Completely. It was good to see.
COUNT
It was a mess -- huh? As for me, I could never understand it -- I think you --
(turning towards Helen)
Madame, I am at your orders -- whenever you like.
HELENE
I've got to get dressed.
ANDRE
Where are you going then?
HELENE
We're going out.
ANDRE
And you're going?
HELENE
I told you -- we're going to pay some visits.
COUNT
(low to Helen)
Have you told him about the pretty carriage?
HELENE
Not yet.
ANDRE
Might one know what you're saying in whispers.
COUNT
He's curious enough! As if it concerned him!
HELENE
We were talking of a surprise your father gave me. He asked me if you knew about it. The day after your departure I saw a big cope with eight wheels drawn by two bay horses in the courtyard -- with at least 15,000 francs -- and equipped with a coachman, who weighs 400 pounds and who's attached to his seat with a belt so he won't roll off onto the ground.
COUNT
You know him -- he's the old Coachman of Lord Stoppfield who just died -- the fattest coachman in Paris -- all the world wants to have him.
ANDRE
And this carriage cost you?
COUNT
That's no one's concern but mine.
ANDRE
You know you have only 40,000 francs to spend a year and not a sou more; and that the capital even --
COUNT
That's good! That's good! Since I no longer have anything to spend on myself.
ANDRE
If you think I am going to spend my life arranging your affairs -- !
COUNT
You'll have to have an agreeable equipage. You had a nasty little coupe -- now you have the best looking carriage in Paris -- ! If you had seen the effect it produced in the Bois de Boulogne -- we're going to promenade there, the both of us every day -- it will be a magnificent time! In the evening we went in the old carriage.
ANDRE
Where did you go in the evening?
COUNT
The first night -- where's we go?
HELENE
To the Italian Theater.
COUNT
Yes, the Italian Theater -- with Madame de Grige.
ANDRE
And the second day -- ?
HELENE
To the Opera.
ANDRE
With?
COUNT
With Madame Godefroy.
ANDRE
And the day after?
COUNT
I escorted Helene to Mme de Prailles.
ANDRE
Very well -- you both went?
COUNT
Quite -- simply --
ANDRE
And yesterday?
COUNT
Yesterday, we didn't go out -- we received.
ANDRE
And today you're going to pay some visits?
COUNT
Yes.
ANDRE
Well -- and me?
COUNT
You?
ANDRE
Yes -- what do I play in this -- me, the husband?
COUNT
You? You're the husband; that's quite enough.
ANDRE
And you think I'm going to let Helene --
COUNT
You are going to let Helene amuse herself -- it's her age -- what! While you were away I took your wife for a walk; took her to the show; to the ball; I distracted her as much as I can -- and you complain? I am here to brighten up the intermissions and you are not satisfied? What do you want us to change?
ANDRE
Helen, we'll go to the show, and to the ball -- with me or both of us -- but when I shall be absent, if by chance I absent myself again without her, which will much surprise me -- she will remain home. That's what appears to me to be most appropriate. That's agreed once and for all, right Helen?
HELENE
But, my friend --
COUNT
Don't even answer him -- if you are his wife, you are my daughter, and I have my rights! Beware! You will get old, my boy, you will get old -- you are becoming an ordinary husband. You are turning into Papa Prudish. Look, you're in a bad humor because I kissed your wife just now at the moment you were counting on being kissed. Why are you so slow, too? A woman wants to kiss you -- hurry to present your check. Nothing refreezes so fast as I kiss -- come on -- let's not start all over again -- from now on we'll only kiss your wife's hand. Are you satisfied.
(to Helen)
He's like that -- you don't know him yet -- you're going to see.
(to Andre)
And today we don't pay any visits with her -- it's you that'll go -- is that better, too? Well, give a little to your Papa.
ANDRE
(laughing)
There's no way to be serious with you!
COUNT
What's the good of being serious?
JOSEPH
(entering)
They're asking for the Count.
COUNT
(to Joseph)
Yes, Count.
COUNT
I'm on my way -- I'm going to leave you, my children. Don't speak too ill of me.
(to Andre)
Don't go -- I'll be back right away and I have to speak to you --
(kissing Helen's hand serenely)
Madame.
(to Andre, tapping him on the head)
Beg baby, go --
(he leaves)
HELENE
And you are bad enough. I saw right away you were hurting him.
ANDRE
My dear child, I know life better than you -- and I especially know my father better. If I don't from time to time, make a remark to him, God knows where he'll lead us with his eight wheel _____, his box seats at the Italian Theater and his balls and receptions. No only will he ruin us in the most innocent way in the world, if I let him love us in this manner, why he's got such an absorbing nature that he will dominate us in everything and we won't be masters of ourselves. It was agreed that we would all live together, I ask nothing better, but on one condition -- it's that we each have our own determined function and that he shall be father and father-in-law, that you will be the wife and daughter-in-law, and that I will be son and husband --
And, when I see him again, just now, I will tell him --
HELENE
You won't say anything to him at all.
ANDRE
Because -- ?
HELENE
Because any remark coming from you will hurt him --
ANDRE
From whom do you want it to come, then?
HELENE
From me, who flatters his little ______ -- who lets him tell me his luck with the ladies in the old days -- as a retired soldier tells his battles. We have our little secrets which don't concern you -- if I let him escort me to the ball and the show, it's not for me, you know, indeed that I cannot amuse myself when you are not there. It's to sweeten the transition between his former life and his life to come. We mustn't demand too much of people that we love, and that we want to change, especially when they have 30 or 40 years old habits behind them. Let me do it, I will pet him, I will cajole him, I will lull like a child in the swaddling of a new life and one fine morning, he will awake as the husband of Madame Godefroy without noticing that he married her -- that's what we want, isn't it? Well, I'll manage it --
ANDRE
Do all that you wish.
(The Count enters.)
COUNT
Do you want to go to my room -- that's someone asking for you?
ANDRE
Who?
COUNT
Go anyway!
ANDRE
But still?
COUNT
Go then -- you will see him -- it's a matter of five minutes.
ANDRE
Helen! Go get dressed.
COUNT
When you return, there'll be time.
(Andre leaves, not understanding the signs his father is making him.)
COUNT
Did he scold you?
HELENE
No - thank God -- he never scolds me.
COUNT
Why, I was afraid that because of me -- he really loves you then!
HELENE
Oh, yes --
COUNT
That's what he was in the act of telling you just now when I came in.
HELENE
Yes --
COUNT
Indeed, he said it, at least?
HELENE
What are you asking me?
COUNT
As for me, I am responsible -- it's I who married you and do you love me a little?
HELENE
You, my dear papa, you know quite well that I love you and with all my heart.
COUNT
My dear papa.
(sighing)
HELENE
What's wrong with you?
COUNT
(same sigh)
My dear papa.
HELENE
Well?
COUNT
When I think that I wanted to marry you, and you call me "My dear papa" -- that's hard!
HELENE
What would you like me to call you?
COUNT
It's true -- there's no other name, I have to resign myself to it -- call me papa!
(a new sigh)
HELENE
Andre who's a big boy calls you that, and for much longer than I have.
COUNT
Yes, but he began when I was young -- and when one is young, you find that charming -- and then Andre is a man. It's not the same thing -- each time you call me papa, it's as if you said to me, "By the way, do you know you are 50 years old?"
HELENE
You forget it so quickly?
COUNT
Not anymore, not since your marriage. You go pay court to a woman -- when you are going to be a grandfather -- for indeed I hope -- in short -- that won't be delayed -- It wouldn't be worth the trouble.
HELENE
Hush!
COUNT
My son really loves me, you too, but that's the end of it.
HELENE
It's already something and opposed by others for indeed you have the surest affections there.
COUNT
Who knows?
HELENE
You doubt us?
COUNT
No, but nature looks ahead and nature's right. You take a bit of Andre's heart from me, your children will take another share. A moment will come when I am too many. Already, perhaps, I annoy you. Even now, I put you out! The old are so boring.
HELENE
Let's see -- you have a morose feeling?
COUNT
I wish I did, really -- no I have no real sorrow -- but sometime, I tell you, you because you are my daughter-in-law, and that consequently you are forbidden to make fun of me -- but sometimes I am said that there are and always will be young people and that I am no longer so -- and that I must no longer be one of them. They speak to me politely and they invite me to games of whist. After having been petted, spoiled, loved, all my life, I cannot accept no longer being one of them -- and on the other side, I have enough wit to understand those days are past. In short, I sense an emptiness in my life. I see myself arriving in the situation of an "old bean" and if there's a stupid role to play in society, that is it. When I listen to my heart, when I consult my faculties, by god, I'm only 25! And then my son comes to remind me I am twice that. I don't wish him ill for it, the dear child! I love him more than ever -- but there's a difficult moment to pass. That will be when I get really old -- for -- for a men like me, what's really sad is not being old -- it's being no longer young -- Pardon all these stupidities I am telling you -- and that you cannot understand. We won't speak of it again.
HELENE
A woman understands everything on the contrary, let's talk about you and let me tell you that the momentary illness of your soul comes from a misunderstanding between it and your heart.
COUNT
You think so?
HELENE
Let's go over all the conditions of happiness you have around you, health, fortune, wit. One of these alone would suffice for another man. You have your son who adores you, you have me who loves you, too, not like after, since the word hurts you, but like our best friend, Andre's and mine. That's no enough for you? Well, look around you, you find in a stranger the most delicate, honest, and attentive affection.
COUNT
Madame Godefroy?
HELENE
Yes.
COUNT
Always Madame Godefroy! Then she's your means of cure? She's known you for only two months and she's already enrolled you in the conspiracy of her marriage? Yes, yes, if I marry Madame Godefroy, I will be cured -- the way patients are cured when they are dead.
HELENE
Then it's still too soon?
COUNT
Ah, yes, she is, along with you, the woman I esteem most in the world -- but that's all.
HELENE
Let's find something else -- look, must you always be treated like a child and spoiled?
COUNT
It is nice!
HELENE
Sometimes you regret your freedom, your friends, your habits and to keep your promise to live with us, I think that, not later than yesterday, you hurt someone and that is what saddens you today.
COUNT
I hurt someone yesterday?
HELENE
Yes -- a lady who some to see you.
COUNT
(uneasily)
You saw her?
HELENE
Don't worry, I didn't see her face. I was looking at my window when I heard a carriage stop at the door. I looked mechanically, and I saw a veiled lady get out. She crossed the courtyard like a familiar of the house. I was taken by a heart throb -- of which you know the cause, right? But this lady went o your apartment, and when she left an hour later, she held her handkerchief in her hand; she was weeping. You had reproached her for having come to my house. Go see that poor woman and ask her pardon for having received her so ill yesterday. As for me, I won't look out the windows anymore, I promise you.
COUNT
There's no one good like you, dear child. But this lady didn't come for me. Women of her age are not troubled by men of mine.
HELENE
Who did she come for then?
COUNT
For one of my friends who abandoned her and who charged me to get his letters back. I would tell you indeed but here I'm the noble father or confident, as you choose.
ANDRE
(entering)
Go get dressed, Helene. I have to talk with my father and you have to go out, go!
(She leaves.)
(He remains for a moment without speaking.)
COUNT
What's wrong with you?
ANDRE
You can ask me!
COUNT
Yes -- you seem to be out of control.
ANDRE
Then you don't think I have something to be annoyed about?
COUNT
No indeed; your wife didn't see anything. I took express case of her all the time you were absent. The other one left; that business is over -- I don't see what's put you in your bad mood.
ANDRE
What! You come in -- you tell me someone's asking for me in your room s-- I go there confidently and I stumble on whom? A woman who plays me a scene of jealousy, of reproaches, and it's you who prepared this ridiculous scene, and you ask me what's wrong?
COUNT
You are charming -- if she played you a scene, she played one for me who didn't know her and who is perfectly disinterested in the question, each in his turn. I'd really like to have seen you in my place yesterday when she cried in my room and I didn't know what more to do.
ANDRE
In your place?
COUNT
Yes, in m place; what would you have said?
ANDRE
I would have said these things don't concern me.
COUNT
You may be sure I began that way.
ANDRE
Well?
COUNT
Well, she started weeping and she told me she would kill herself.
ANDRE
Do women kill themselves?
COUNT
To get revenge, they are capable of anything! In this case, she was in a state of exaltation and had to be calmed at all cost.
ANDRE
I was absent -- it was a ready repulse.
COUNT
I told her that often enough that you were absent, but I was taken my self -- for this reason I thought was excellent. Do you know, first of all, how the thing happened?
ANDRE
(pointing to his wife's room)
Let's not speak so loud!
COUNT
Yesterday, Joseph came to tell me, "Count, there's woman who insists on seeing you. Her name? She wouldn't tell me; you don't know her."
ANDRE
Joseph knew that woman perfectly; he's seen her at my place. He baptized her "The Lady in Black" and he knew well enough how to give her her walking papers the day we left for Dieppe.
COUNT
She told me about that and that is what touched me the most. That poor woman! Anyway Joseph was doing his duty. She didn't want her name given, and he didn't give it.
ANDRE
You wanted to take this man into your service -- that's another idea of yours -- but it's not a question of Joseph.
COUNT
He let the woman in. She appeared very upset -- I invited her to sit down. She took me by the hands and began to burst into tears -- that's a nice position! In sum, women are not made to cry -- and I didn't know what it was all about. In short, she mentioned you, and she told me that you got married without warning her and she just leaned of it, that she is desperate, that his life is ruined, that she's going to confess everything to her husband -- that he's jealous, that he will kill you -- that she came to me because you told her once I was nice, that I understand about things, that I am still young -- whatever she could think of to be agreeable, she told me -- you see! And she asked me -- to prevent the worst misfortunes to see you one last time --
It was useless for me to reply to her, "My son is married, I cannot meddle in his affairs of the heart, anyway, he's gone. I don't know when he'll be back," like Malbrouch -- then screams that your wife might hear, attacks of nerves looming. It was necessary to calm her down cost what it might -- she was crazy, I agreed that she would return today -- it was the last day she could spend in Paris -- I thought you wouldn't be back yet, and that I would succeed -- all by myself, in making her see reason you returned; she came. Joseph ran to inform me -- I made a last attempt. She knew you were back. She wasn't going to leave for an empire without having seen you she'd sooner come in here. I thought it was better she see you then your wife. She saw you and she left. All's for the best and you've left her like a gallant man -- what wrong is there in that?
ANDRE
What wrong? It should be this way.
COUNT
What's got you?
ANDRE
What's got me is that I love my wife -- that I want to make her happy -- that I've arranged my life and I don't want anyone to disturb it.
COUNT
Are you saying that for me?
ANDRE
It's not for me? But it suffices for everybody I've known and that I no longer want to see anymore -- who addresses themselves to you.
COUNT
Are you making me a scene?
ANDRE
No, but --
COUNT
No, but you really want to. Do you want me to tell you my opinion? You are perfectly ridiculous.
ANDRE
Perhaps, but I'm determined to be this way.
COUNT
Where do you expect to get to with your buts and your determinations. Am I too many in the house? Tell me?
ANDRE
It's not you who are to many in the house, it's the people you let enter.
COUNT
The people I let enter here are the people you've shown the way to. You have to settle the accounts of your heart before your marriage in order not to have to pay afterwards. You are married, you love your wife. I would be the first to take sides against you if it were otherwise, but we mustn't fall into conventional morality. Before being married, above all, you are a gentleman -- therefore, the least thing one can demand of a gentlemen is that he be at least polite with all women -- and especially with a woman that he loved, and you weren't even polite with her.
ANDRE
You're right.
COUNT
Certainly, I"m right and you are lucky to be off so cheaply -- a little scene and some letters.
ANDRE
What! Some letters?
COUNT
After this, perhaps she won't write you. Yes, still! She's a sentimentalist from Touraine! Those women write a lot!
ANDRE
She told you that she was going to write me --
COUNT
And I was very much engaged -- I prefer to see her write you than to see her again -- time passes, but it's not amusing! Letters -- don't have to be read.
ANDRE
You advised her to write me?
COUNT
Yes -- it was the best way --
ANDRE
You did very well! Only her letters won't reach me!
COUNT
Because.
ANDRE
Because I'm going to leave and I cannot tell precisely where I'll be.
COUNT
You're going to leave.
ANDRE
Yes.
COUNT
What reason did you have to leave?
ANDRE
Do you cant me to remain here to wait for letters -- of which just one if found by Helene could destroy all her trust and all my happiness.
COUNT
There's no danger of that!
(Andre starts)
Will you permit me to say a word -- jus tone? I foresaw everything. I am not as maladroit as you like to think. I told this lady to address her letters to me, taking care not to name you a single time in then -- and to put a little cross on the envelope -- a little mark, you know -- in that case, let's suppose your wife finds one of these letters -- you're as white as snow -- I'm that scoundrel.
ANDRE
It's very ingenious.
COUNT
You are angry with me for it?
ANDRE
Oh! No.
COUNT
Then, there's be no question of a trip -- ?
(Helene enters.)
ANDRE
My wife!
(The Count lends a hand to Helene.)
HELENE
(entering)
Here I am -- ready. Are you ready?
ANDRE
Yes.
COUNT
Helene and I, we must dine with Madame de Prailles. You will dine there with her and you will excuse me for not being able to go.
HELENE
What's the matter with you? You see upset.
COUNT
Nothing's wrong with me, dear child.
(he gives her his hand)
HELENE
(to Andre)
What's got you? You seem vexed.
ANDRE
You are mistaken, dear friend --
(he kisses her)
Come!
HELENE
(to Count)
Andre will return to find you at six o'clock. I hope you will have changed your opinion -- and that you will done with us.
JOSEPH
(announcing)
Mr de Tournas --
ANDRE
Why's he announcing de Tournas here?
COUNT
They must have told him I was in your apartment, and as he knows you -- would you prefer to send him away? But perhaps he doesn't know where to go to dine.
ANDRE
(to Joseph)
Show him in.
(Joseph leaves)
So that from now on he'll know how our future relations stand --
DE TOURNAS
(entering)
Hello, my dear Count -- ah, it's you, my dear Andre.
(seeing Helene)
Madame.
ANDRE
I ask your pardon, my dear, sir, if I leave you so soon -- but Madame and I are expected.
(He bows very coldly and leaves.)
DE TOURNAS
You cannot call that being received with open arms -- what do you make of it, old friend.
COUNT
Indeed -- Andre is in a bit of a hurry.
DE TOURNAS
You know, my dear Fernaud, the friendship I have for you, but, as you live with your son, after all -- if this embarrasses you to receive me -- profit by the opportunity to tell me -- it's a good one. I've never been importunate, yet. He did me a favor it's true, but he's not alone and no one else reproaches me for them -- I've not yet acquitted myself, but I hope one day -- anyway -- should I go away?
COUNT
Not the least in the world. Don't pay attention to Andre's bad humor -- before your visit there was a little discussion --
DE TOURNAS
Between you.
COUNT
Yes --
DE TOURNAS
Nothing serious, I hope?
COUNT
Of course, He was right, all the same -- and it's not important. Let's talk about you. What's become of you -- ?
DE TOURNAS
Oh -- as for me, it's always the same thing -- and I came to see you just to know what's new. I never meet you anywhere anymore. One would say that it was you who married. What a change! All the same, you look well -- you've got a bearing -- ! You are rejuvenated 10 years -- it would show envy to imitate you. Never mind -- there must be some difficult moments for a man who led the life you led.
COUNT
Ah, yes, sometimes, but one must learn to be reasonable.
DE TOURNAS
Anyway, you are happy, you look healthy -- that's the important thing. You are always good and affectionate for your old friends. You come from good blood -- when can one come to see you from time to time -- without disturbing you and without fear of meeting your son?
COUNT
In the morning you can lunch with me.
DE TOURNAS
Then that's that -- I'll come to lunch with you some morning.
(looking as if he's about to go)
COUNT
Are you going to go?
DE TOURNAS
Yes, I really am afraid of coming at the wrong time today -- and then you see to have something to do --
COUNT
Absolutely nothing.
DE TOURNAS
Yes --
COUNT
No -- nothing at all. Would you have dinner with me?
DE TOURNAS
Today?
COUNT
Tonight.
DE TOURNAS
Tonight? Oh -- tonight's impossible. I've given myself to dine with someone. Does that astonish you?
COUNT
Why no -- it's quite simple.
DE TOURNAS
I've promised to dine with Mme de la Borderi. I would really invite you to dine with us, but a man as settled down as you are!
COUNT
You still see her?
DE TOURNAS
We never leave each other. All in good faith, all honor. As you think -- she dines with me often (coming to himself) sometimes for dinner -- and from time to time -- in my turn when I have a little money, I take her to a cabaret. We're dining this evening at the Provencaux -- together -- would you like to go?
COUNT
Thanks.
DE TOURNAS
Thanks no?
DE TOURNAS
Thanks no.
DE TOURNAS
I won't insist -- but between you and me -- you ar wrong.
COUNT
Why?
DE TOURNAS
First of all - because it would please me -- and then because it would please her.
COUNT
Oh, to her. We mustn't be to much together.
DE TOURNAS
You are mistaken. You left her abruptly at the time of your son's marriage; but she's an intelligent woman -- who understood your reasons and preserves a better memory of you, she defends you --
COUNT
They are attacking me it seems?
DE TOURNAS
They attack you as they do everyone -- an there are occasions.
COUNT
What occasions?
DE TOURNAS
Certain occasions.
COUNT
My dear Tournas, I have a horror of enigmas, if you want to tell me something -- say it -- but say it clearly --
DE TOURNAS
Look, the other day, right in front of Albertine -- people were talking about your conversion, and they joked and they compared you to Mlle de la Villiere -- "The Same of Love", someone one said --
COUNT
What do you mean! The same of love.
DE TOURNAS
As for me, I am repeating what I heard. It seems you were amorous of Mlle de Brigria -- that you wanted to marry her -- and that she preferred your son --
COUNT
Mlle de Brigria never had to prefer between us two -- she never heard talk of anyone's love but Andre's and it was I --
DE TOURNAS
You will never prevent folks from talking, dear friend, especially about a man as much in view as you. Well, they discussed it -- and there were two camps -- one group said Miss de Brigria was right to marry the son -- the others, Albertine was in their number -- and besides, she had indeed proved previously that they would have preferred the father -- as for me, I'm also of that opinion -- when a woman, a rather pretty one, my word -- who has ranked on our side, added that the young girl, by force of living with you both, would one day recognize her error -- and regret having preferred one over the other, and that sooner or later -- there would be a brouhaha between father and son -- for my part, I maintained the contrary because one must always defend one's friends -- but between you and me -- I think it's true -- and when you told me just now you'd just had a discussion with your son -- my word!
COUNT
But this discussion had no connection --
DE TOURNAS
By God! Discussions never take place for the real cause, but anything will serve as a pretext -- you can say what you like -- Andre is jealous of you.
COUNT
Jealous of me? You're dreaming!
DE TOURNAS
And you, you're more ______ than you wish to appear --
COUNT
More cunning -- let me be hanged if I know what you are telling me.
DE TOURNAS
You're showing off, and the day when you noticed that Andre is losing by comparison -- well, that day, you won't be annoyed by your discovery.
COUNT
You are mad, my dear fellow!
DE TOURNAS
So be it! But would you like to make a bet with me?
COUNT
A bet?
DE TOURNAS
Yes -- a bet with me -- not a big one -- because I am not rich and that's unlucky -- so I cannot wager you a large sun --
COUNT
And so what?
DE TOURNAS
Your son -- as he left, was in a bad humor?
COUNT
It's true --
DE TOURNAS
Are you obliged to see him again today?
COUNT
He's going to return soon.
DE TOURNAS
Well, I bet you 25 crowns that if you say to him, "I'm going to leave on a trip for a year -- without letting him the cause nor where you're going -- I bet that not only will he let you go -- but also that he'll be perfectly delighted by the news -- ? Is it a bet?
COUNT
I bet no.
DE TOURNAS
It's a deal then?
COUNT
It's a deal.
DE TOURNAS
And if I were -- ?
COUNT
If you were -- I am going to tell you tonight -- at the Provencaux -- and I am dining with you --
DE TOURNAS
Fine -- all's said.
(he slaps the Count's hand)
JOSEPH
(announcing)
Madame Godefroy.
DE TOURNAS
I'm leaving you --
(to Madame Godefroy as she enters)
Your health is good, Madame?
MADAME GODEFROY
You don't recognize me, Madame? As for me, I recognize you -- one morning I had the honor of finding myself with you at the home of the Vicomte de la Rivonniere --
MADAME GODEFROY
Ah -- that's right -- sir, I beg your pardon.
(They bow to each other.)
DE TOURNAS
(to Count)
Au revoir, dear fellow, au revoir.
(he leaves)
MADAME GODEFROY
I came to see the children -- it seems they went out?
COUNT
Yes.
MADAME GODEFROY
How are you doing?
COUNT
Very well, I thank you for asking.
MADAME GODEFROY
Helene's going to return.
COUNT
No -- she's going to dine out with Andre.
MADAME GODEFROY
And you.
COUNT
No --
MADAME GODEFROY
You're dining somewhere else.
COUNT
I don't know yet.
MADAME GODEFROY
Would you like to dine with me?
COUNT
No thanks.
MADAME GODEFROY
What's the matter?
COUNT
Nothing's the matter?
MADAME GODEFROY
Yes -- you seem preoccupied.
COUNT
Yes -- I am very troubled.
MADAME GODEFROY
(with interest)
What's wrong.
COUNT
You've known me for a long while.
MADAME GODEFROY
Well?
COUNT
I need to ask you something -- but will you indeed reply sincerely.
MADAME GODEFROY
Ask --
COUNT
Am I an honest man?
MADAME GODEFROY
You?
COUNT
Me.
MADAME GODEFROY
You're joking --
COUNT
Look, even in the midst of my disordered past have you heard tell that I committed an infamy, a cowardice, an indelicacy -- and do you think me capable of it--
MADAME GODEFROY
An infamy, a cowardice, an indelicacy -- what sort of talk is that?
COUNT
They are the ones -- and the last is too soft --
MADAME GODEFROY
But what?
COUNT
Guess what they accuse me of?
MADAME GODEFROY
I have no idea, my friend.
COUNT
That man you just saw, who's known me more than 25 years. (It's true his respectability, is suspect but still it isn't necessary to be well-judge by honorable men). This man supposes -- and he finds it quite natural -- that my son is jealous of me on the subject of his wife -- and that as for me, I am doing what I can to give him reason for this jealousy - and that Andre would be enchanted to see me leave. What do you say about it?
MADAME GODEFROY
Nothing.
COUNT
What do you mean, nothing?
MADAME GODEFROY
All this is possible, my poor friend.
COUNT
Possible! You too!
MADAME GODEFROY
Oh - my opinion -- is that folks who know you will never be deceived on your account, but those who (and they are the greatest number) whom only heard tell of your luxury, your prodigality and your love affairs, are ready to thrust on you the most ridiculous stories -- and their opinion is formed by the greatest number -- and there's no way to end it. As for that, the moment it gets loose in your habits, it is capable of anything. Surely it is original and amusing to treat your son as a friend, a comrade, a companion and to let him witness whatever was going on -- but on one condition -- it's that all your actions would be exemplary -- otherwise, they will become his excuses, the day he chooses to behave badly.
Are you indeed sure that all your actions could be and ought to be known by your son? You are indeed mistaken, my friend. Follow opinions since your youth, listen to its flatteries, its hesitations its decrees -- "Do you know this young Count Fernaud de la Rivonniere who just arrived in Paris with his wife; he's charming, he has an adorable son. They are happy. They deserve to be. Madame de la Rivonniere is dead! That ravishing woman -- what a misfortune -- the husband is inconsolable. Poor young man -- all the women are after him -- at the end of two years, he reappears in the world -- ah, he is consoling himself. Still he cannot cry all his life -- ? At 24! How well he's received -- beautiful horses -- glorious hunting trips -- excellent dinners -- nice house -- he's really rich, then? Three or 4 times a millionaire -- oh, oh, that's saying a lot -- he's eating into his capital. They say he's the lover of Baroness X, Countess Y, the Duchess Z -- His son is have you seen him -- ? His father takes him everywhere -- He's wrong -- He's right -- Better watch out - the young man has a mistress -- Ah! Ah! A girl from the theater -- what's his father say? His father finds it quite natural -- how would you except from the after who's been a robe -- to prevent his son from being one -- ?
A good hunting dog likes to run. You know the Rivonniere's are ruined or soon will be. It has to end that way -- but the father's going to marry Miss Brigria -- is it possible? It's certain -- do you know the news -- ? It's the son who married Miss Brigria and the father fixed up the marriage -- and the father? He lives with the young couple -- he's straightened out -- get out! There's something in all that. Him -- settled down? That's impossible. He's in love with someone -- be sure of that. With whom? Miss de Brigria -- but -- but Miss de Brigria is his son's wife -- what does that matter? Oh, you don't know him -- Him! He's a libertine -- a debaucher -- indeed, why not -- ? He takes his daughter-in-law dancing -- to shows -- while his son is absent -- He doesn't let anyone near her -- he's jealous -- he showers her with presents, he'll end by ruining himself for her -- Then he's his daughter-in-law's lover? He was perhaps even before -- ! Who knows? Oh!"
COUNT
Infamous! And who's the wretch?
MADAME GODEFROY
The wretch is no one knows who-- and the day you try to quarrel with someone on the subject it won't be someone -- it will be everyone.
COUNT
And you think that Andre himself -- ?
MADAME GODEFROY
I think your son is incapable of a supposition unworthy of him and of you. He loves you as he always did -- I am sure of it -- only he loves his wife, as you loved yours -- and he wants to see her happy and respected -- he fears not that you'll set her a bad example or give her bad advice but that your habits will turn her from the path he wants her to follow --
COUNT
Then -- he will be delighted to be rid of me --
MADAME GODEFROY
You are slandering him --
COUNT
We're soon going to find out; here he is.
ANDRE
(entering -- still a little miffed)
Hello, dear lady -- Helene will really be vexed not to have seen you -- she will embrace you tomorrow.
(to his father)
I'm going to get dressed and take you along if you are dining with us --
COUNT
I'm dining out -- thanks anyway.
ANDRE
Then I'll leave you -- I ask your pardon, dear lady, but I'm late -- will I see you then at the soiree?
COUNT
I don't think so.
ANDRE
Then -- till tomorrow.
COUNT
Say --
ANDRE
What's wrong?
COUNT
I've got a plan I'd like to ask you about --
ANDRE
What plan?
COUNT
A plan for a trip.
ANDRE
Ah! A trip soon?
COUNT
Oh -- my God -- I'll leave tomorrow or the day after.
ANDRE
For?
COUNT
For Italy.
ANDRE
That's a great idea. If your problems are fixed -- nothing keeps you in Paris.
COUNT
Then you approve?
ANDRE
Absolutely.
COUNT
You don't wish to accompany me -- with Helene?
ANDRE
Now, no -- much later -- perhaps we'll join you -- do you need money?
COUNT
I'll address myself to you naturally -- get going, my friend, go -- your wife's waiting for you, I'll see you again before my departure.
ANDRE
(gaily)
I hope so indeed -- bye, Madame -- soon.
(gives his hand to his father and leaves)
COUNT
You are mistaken, dear friend, my so on longer loves me.
(curtain)
The Counts
ALBERTINE
(writing at a table, to Joseph, who enters)
These are not all the monthly accounts.
JOSEPH
I'll go bring them.
ALBERTINE
(to de Natin without turning)
To what do we owe your amiable visit, my dear de Natin?
DE NATIN
You wrote me that you could no longer receive me -- I desire then to have an explanation with you.
ALBERTINE
Why? When a woman writes to a man that she can no longer receive him -- she has nothing more to explain to him.
DE NATIN
That depends on the rights the man had in the house --
JOSEPH
(returning)
Here's the rest of the bills.
ALBERTINE
Now -- ask the cook for the menu.
(Joseph leaves)
(to de Natin)
"On the rights that man has in the house". I don't get the meaning of that phrase.
DE NATIN
I paid yesterday 5,000 francs of bills of exchange that I cosigned for you.
ALBERTINE
From the moment you co-signed, you had to pay them.
DE NATIN
But when one pays 5,000 francs in bills of exchange for a woman, it seems to me, he at least has the right to be received by her.
ALBERTINE
My God -- what a bore you are with your 5,000 francs! That's all you ever talk about -- do you have the madness to hope I will return them to you? All the same, I am receiving you -- since you are here.
DE NATIN
I am not at your place, I'm at the Count's.
ALBERTINE
Where I deserve all the more praise for receiving you.
DE NATIN
I never foresaw what would happen to me today.
ALBERTINE
You foresaw it and you continued! It's your fault!
(Joseph enters and brings the news to Albertine)
(to De Natin)
You'll excuse me for a moment -- ?
(to Joseph)
That's okay -- but no partridge just a chicken.
JOSEPH
Some wines.
ALBERTINE
I will go to the cellar myself.
(Joseph leaves)
(to De Natin)
I beg your pardon. You were saying --
DE NATIN
So -- you never loved me?
ALBERTINE
Never, my friend.
DE NATIN
Still, you told me --
ALBERTINE
That I loved you? Oh, yes -- people say things like that -- but that signifies nothing. A woman only loves a man that she recognizes as superior to others and to herself -- be it by wit, be it by courage, but it by charity -- but men like you, my dear de Natin, one mustn't pretend otherwise -- are to be found everywhere! This one's picture is like that one's and nature makes as many copies as she cares to -- without tiring the whole world.
DE NATIN
Well, as for me, I loved you.
ALBERTINE
No -- you came to me to do like the others -- a man from a certain club at a certain hour, has to be able to say, as he pushes his hand through his hair, "I'm going to Loulou's or Titine's. You can no longer go to Titines -- so you go to Loulou's. It's exactly the same thing. When you've performed that exercise there for 10 years, you will be ruined but you'll have a nickname in your turn -- they'll call you "Bibi". So get out then -- that's what you'd better do -- and if you profit from the lesson, you really shouldn't complain. Fifty thousand francs won't be too costly! Do you still have something to say to me?
DE NATIN
My mother has paid my debts -- I'll get back as much money as I want -- if I said to you --
ALBERTINE
So -- my sweet words are useless?
DE NATIN
Listen to me --
ALBERTINE
No use. I neither wish -- nor can receive anyone.
DE NATIN
That's your last word?
ALBERTINE
No -- it's my next to last -- the last is goodbye.
DE NATIN
Decidedly?
ALBERTINE
Decidedly.
DE NATIN
In that care, I'm going to Loulou's.
ALBERTINE
Go to Loulou's -- it's a great idea.
DE TOURNAS
(entering)
And say sweet things to her on my behalf -- are you leaving because of me?
DE NATIN
No, they're putting me out the door.
DE TOURNAS
That's another matter, then my young friend -- receive my condolences -- everything has an end -- one cannot be and have been! Come, goodbye.
DE NATIN
Goodbye.
(he leaves)
ALBERTINE
(shoving furniture to Joseph after she has rung for him during this exchange)
This furniture has not been dusted.
JOSEPH
But --
ALBERTINE
I don't want any remarks.
JOSEPH
But the Count --
ALBERTINE
The Count has nothing to do with it -- do you wish to remain here -- yes or no?
JOSEPH
Yes.
ALBERTINE
Then do me the pleasure of saying, "Yes, Madame" and get out.
JOSEPH
Yes, Madame.
(leaving, aside)
Play your time -- this won't last long -- I'm telling you.
(he leaves)
ALBERTINE
If you think it's easy to restore order to this house, you're mistaken.
DE TOURNAS
These poor folks! They are servants.
ALBERTINE
Who is there who is not the servant of someone? Have you run my errands?
ANDRE
I've seen your dressmaker. You'll have your hat this evening -- just like that of the Countess de Lezae. I went to your shoemaker and paid your bill. Here's the receipt with the money left over. I told him you wouldn't pay more than 20 francs for your satin slippers -- it's agreed -- but only for you. His wife asked me to present you her respects -- I saw your man of affairs -- the Count received 40,000 francs from him. He signed a promissory note for the same sum payable in a year -- he asked me to go tell his notary to accept it -- which I will do right away only I wanted to see you before taking your orders.
ALBERTINE
The Count doesn't suspect from where the money comes -- that he has borrowed.
DE TOURNAS
No -- I presented your man of affairs to him as a friend of mine -- very happy to oblige him -- at the legal rate on his signature alone -- and I admit I would be curious to know what interest you have in loaning him the money.
ALBERTINE
Be sure that I have one.
DE TOURNAS
No -- there's other news --
ALBERTINE
What is it?
DE TOURNAS
Andre has returned from Venice.
ALBERTINE
And where is he?
DE TOURNAS
At Fountainbleau, in a hotel, with his wife -- for over a week.
ALBERTINE
How did you learn this?
DE TOURNAS
From the Count.
ALBERTINE
Father and son have seen each other.
DE TOURNAS
No -- on the contrary. Andre didn't inform the Count of his return. Fernaud learned it indirectly -- and it was he who begged me to go see if indeed it was true, I did -- and I am forming you in your turn.
ALBERTINE
Thanks!
DE TOURNAS
What are you going to do?
ALBERTINE
Take the Count away. It is useless for us to live in the same country.
DE TOURNAS
You're right; but me?
ALBERTINE
Don't you have your inheritance?
DE TOURNAS
Make fun of me -- that's nice!
ALBERTINE
No, I begged the old Count to concern himself with you and find you a situation.
DE TOURNAS
A situation? I thank you indeed. it will cause me pain to see you leave, for I'm very attached to you and the Count -- to you especially. But you will give me your news, right? The principal thing is that you will be happy.
ALBERTINE
You are a shrewd one.
DE TOURNAS
How so?
ALBERTINE
Because you have your idea on my subject -- and it's not bad -- you never know what will happy -- while waiting, you haven't lunched?
DE TOURNAS
No.
ALBERTINE
Well -- have them serve you lunch and then go to the Count's notary.
DE TOURNAS
And at the same time, I'll stop in on Sanfourche to get news of your little dog.
ALBERTINE
That's fine.
JOSEPH
(announcing)
Mde Ligneroy.
ALBERTINE
De Ligneroy -- is it me or the Count he's asking for?
JOSEPH
You, Madame.
ALBERTINE
Have him in.
(Joseph leaves.)
ALBERTINE
He's going to have some news. I will tell you all about it. Return quickly.
DE TOURNAS
Don't worry.
(leaving by the lift)
DE LIGNEROY
(enters from the rear and bows with a false ceremony)
Madame.
ALBERTINE
(in the same way)
Sir --
DE LIGNEROY
Is it indeed to Madame de la Borderi that I have the honor of speaking?
ALBERTINE
And I to Mr. de Ligneroy?
DE LIGNEROY
Himself.
ALBERTINE
Be so good as to set down.
(he sits down. She does too)
Now -- let's see your little speech.
DE LIGNEROY
You presume then -- ?
ALBERTINE
I presume that if you follow me even to the Count's -- it's because you have something to tell me.
DE LIGNEROY
It's true.
ALBERTINE
Let's hear it.
DE LIGNEROY
How much do you want to give the father of La Rivonniere to us?
ALBERTINE
Nothing, I prefer to keep him.
DE LIGNEROY
Then this is no ordinary affair.
ALBERTINE
No.
DE LIGNEROY
That's what I suspected.
ALBERTINE
You are so clear.
DE LIGNEROY
Perhaps, and my cleverness finds that yours has gone astray to reach a situation without result --
ALBERTINE
If it must be without result, you wouldn't offer to buy him from me. Finally my cleverness has not gone astray -- in bringing the Count back to me. I wanted to see him again, I admit it -- I had built a little combination on him. I let a little time pass after the marriage of his son -- and one fine day -- I sent de Tournas to pay him a visit.
DE LIGNEROY
And then it was during the visit hat de Tournas repeated to the Count --
ALBERTINE
What he heard said at my place about him and his daughter-in-law.
DE LIGNEROY
That it was an infamy.
ALBERTINE
The worst kind --
DE LIGNEROY
So -- you don't believe it.
ALBERTINE
I never believed it. The Count needed distraction. I took him to the country for a couple days. There was a blunder. Andre left with his wife to join Madame de Chavry and you -- for you are always where Madame de Chavry is -- don't worry, I am not speaking ill of her. I never speak ill of women of the world -- we've no need of that -- men's stupidity is enough for us." Where the Count returned home he found no one. The adversaries had abandoned their positions -- I took possession.
You see, my cleverness didn't have much to do. For two months the Count never left me -- scandal! How to break this liaison? Andre and his wife returned to France to scout out the installation. You returned with them. And you, who are clever, the friend for all work -- you said to Andre, "Don't worry -- I know Albertine -- she's a woman who only wants money. Will you make a sacrifice of 30 or 40 thousand francs? Yes -- well, wait for me -- I'm going to fix this up" -- is that it?
DE LIGNEROY
Pretty close.
ALBERTINE
Well -- you're mistaken.
DE LIGNEROY
Then you have only one object -- to ruin the Count? Well, I must tell you --
ALBERTINE
That he has only 40,000 francs income and he cannot touch the capital, also I keep his house with the greatest possible economy -- the closets are full of new linen carefully arranged -- the cellars are full of good wines, and I have the keys -- I pay in cash and the servants are polite. No more parasites except de Tournas but as for him -- he's learned to do his share in this house. He's part of the furniture and the Count finds all this charming -- here he is initiated in to the mysteries of economy --
In three months he'll be able to pay for linen from the washerwoman -- in six months he'll be a miser -- as for me, I've yet to accept a bouquet of violets -- you see his son has nothing to fear.
DE LIGNEROY
On that side perhaps -- for in that case -- you are looking pretty -- you intend to marry him --
ALBERTINE
Where would that get me?
DE LIGNEROY
To be the Countess de la Rivonniere for whom? For the servants and the tradesmen -- who would mock me when my back was turned -- and the medical examiner on my decease? To have an honorable name? But the man who marries me will cease to be honorable by marrying me -- and his name will lose all its worth by passing from him to me -- do honest people marry us?
DE LIGNEROY
Look, dear friend, if the Count gives you neither his name nor his money -- what does he give you?
ALBERTINE
He gives him his arm.
DE LIGNEROY
I understand.
ALBERTINE
You know quite well how things end for us, and I know it quite well, too. One fine day, rich as we are, fashionable men will desert our house -- brilliant as we have been! Then, the terror of solitude takes us -- and rather than live our last years alone -- and especially lying alone, we choose, among the adventurers who surround us -- the one who has the most to fear of ending up in a hospital in his old age -- and we buy his name and his company for our table and lodging.
DE LIGNEROY
De Tournas?
ALBERTINE
Exactly. Well, frankly, I wouldn't find it funny to be amassed a million to assure the old age of that gentleman. As for the rest, I don't want the Count and his son to be at odds -- let them see each other as much as they like and the only thing I demand is that Mme de la Rivonniere receive me.
DE LIGNEROY
You're worth your weight in gold.
ALBERTINE
I've really proved it!
DE LIGNEROY
But you understand, in your turn, dear Madame, that Andre will not accept this little combination -- so very well reasoned, so ingenious -- but which will prevent him from leaving his wife for fear of meeting his father with you -- and that this will force both of them into exile.
ALBERTINE
That's no concern of mine -- I take my ease when I find it. We are not penetrating into your family except into the emptiness you've left there -- it's up to you not to disunite it -- the world is full of fathers and sons who don't see each other -- and on whom we have and cannot have any influence. It's for the count and Andre to live like folks of that sort.
DE LIGNEROY
You are reason personified. I'm going to report our conversation to Andre -- who's waiting for me at my place. He'll be apprised.
ALBERTINE
Very fine! I adore frankness -- I will be enchanted to know what he wants from my and as soon as possible -- fire away, don't be sky. I hear the Count who has just returned. Would you like me to leave you alone with him.
DE LIGNEROY
No.
(The Count enters without seeing de Ligneroy -- he takes Albertine's two hands -- and after having kissed them.)
COUNT
Open these beautiful hands -- like this.
(putting them together)
Now close your eyes.
(placing a pearl necklace in her hands)
For Saint Albert, your patrol -- it's his day today.
ALBERTINE
You choose your moment well -- I've just told Mr. de Ligneroy that I've made you thrifty.
COUNT
The proof that you are right is that I am bringing you the results of my economies -- hello, my dear de Ligneroy! I ask your pardon for not having noticed you as I came in, but --
(pointing to Albertine)
Here's my excuse.
(very coldly & throughout the scene)
It's true that, for a long while I've not heard of you - -and that I wasn't expecting such an agreeable surprise.
DE LIGNEROY
I'm coming from Venice.
COUNT
You are indeed lucky -- one only loves there -- when are we leaving for Venice, Madame?
ALBERTINE
Whenever you like.
COUNT
You know quite well I begged you to ___ like ____ for both of us.
(to de Ligneroy)
Have you come to ask me to dinner?
DE LIGNEROY
Impossible, I am expected.
COUNT
Then it will be for another time. Only hurry if you expect to find us still in Paris.
DE LIGNEROY
(to himself)
The devil -- he's cold --
(aloud)
Goodbye, my dear Count.
COUNT
Are you leaving us already?
DE LIGNEROY
Goodbye, dear Madame.
ALBERTINE
Bye! Good luck!
DE LIGNEROY
Thanks!
(The Count gives his hand to de Ligneroy and holds him for a moment as if he would like to talk to him, then lets him go. He remains pensive as he watches the door through which de Ligneroy left. Albertine watches him for a moment then goes up to the Count, who doesn't hear her and touches him on the shoulder.)
ALBERTINE
Goodbye, my dear Count.
COUNT
You're going out?
ALBERTINE
I'm leaving.
COUNT
Where are you going?
ALBERTINE
Far away.
COUNT
With me?
ALBERTINE
Alone.
COUNT
Because -- ?
ALBERTINE
Because you don't love me!
COUNT
I don't love you?
ALBERTINE
No -- it sufficed to find you with a friend of your son to notice it -- and as for me, I only needed this necklace to be sure of it -- ! If you loved me, you would esteem me a little and you wouldn't feel forced to give me such rich presents -- if you loved me, you wouldn't have cast such a sad look on the door through which Mr. de Ligneroy just went -- the friend of those you truly love. We are both people of intelligence and we understand each other with a half a word. I thought you loved me -- whereas I was only a distraction for you during a sorrow -- tomorrow this sorrow will have vanished and as for me -- I will become useless! Allow my vanity not to wait until then -- let's shake hands without rancor -- and "goodbye".
COUNT
I bore you?
ALBERTINE
What an idea!
COUNT
But if you leave me, what do you think will become of me?
ALBERTINE
You will go see your son -- that's not far since he's at Fountainbleau.
COUNT
Then you know?
ALBERTINE
I know everything, my poor friend!
COUNT
Then Mr. de Ligneroy came here as I suspected -- to meddle?
ALBERTINE
In things which concern your friends -- in short. Go quite simply to find your son for it seems that it is you who owe him the first visit. Take up your role. He's your son -- in the whole world you love only him -- go find him and ask his pardon.
COUNT
I should go ask my son for pardon! You are joking, my dear Albertine!
ALBERTINE
I am not joking; you only think of him! The day you meet him you will throw yourself in each other's arms -- go do it right away.
COUNT
You are mistaken -- everything is finished between my son and me -- he has sentiments so refined that like any ermine a single tear kills them. My son is married. He's found happiness away form me -- it's up to me to find happiness apart from him. I've only got you in the world -- free as you are to abandon me -- I will remain alone -- that's all -- and your departure won't change my ____________ in any way -- you saw quite well how I secured Mr. de Ligneroy.
ALBERTINE
But let's suppose I agree to remain -- do you think your son would permit me to?
COUNT
And by what right would he be able to prevent it?
ALBERTINE
The right of the stronger.
COUNT
And by what means -- ?
ALBERTINE
All ways are good with Miss Albertine -- since I won't say slander for unfortunately he has no need to slander me -- since the truth that they will repeat to you ceaselessly -- even to insult -- will be needed to make me -- but once.
COUNT
Insult! They've threatened you.
ALBERTINE
They told me to expect everything! Well, a woman, no matter what, always has her dignity and in the position I find myself -- if your son insults me, and you took the side of your son -- what will you be forced to do?
COUNT
If you have no other reason for leaving than the one you've told me -- stay. I love you and I will protect you against whoever insults you, even my son; I give you my word of honor.
ALBERTINE
I believe you, and I wills tay. But for greater security and to avoid greater misfortunes -- let's leave together -- tonight.
COUNT
If you wish.
ALBERTINE
Come -- tell me that you love me!
COUNT
I love you.
ALBERTINE
Better than that.
COUNT
(very tenderly)
I love you!
ALBERTINE
Good -- you were twenty when you spoke that way! My turn to tel you that I love you! But to tell you very hushed for I've been mocked enough -- if some one were to hear me! I love you? Now, sir, put this villainous necklace in your pocket. I no longer wish to see it. For it's punishment, it will pay for the expenses of the trip.
(the hug each other)
DE TOURNAS
(entering)
Happy age!
ALBERTINE
My dear Tournas, we are leaving tonight, the Count and I. I have all sort of purchase to make you are going to accompany me. I'll put on a hat and shawl, and I'll be back.
DE TOURNAS
At your order, dear lady, at your orders.
(she leaves.)
COUNT
(trying to regain his gaiety)
You came opportunity.
DE TOURNAS
You're leaving for a long while?
COUNT
For a year or two -- without doubt. In my absence, I need a reliable room in Paris.
DE TOURNAS
Here I am.
COUNT
I am relying on you -- but as you could be busy with something else -- let's not beat about the bush -- I'll keep 500 francs a month at your disposition; is that enough?
DE TOURNAS
Then here I am intendant here?
COUNT
Mme de la Borderi told me you will accept any situation -- I thought that near a friend.
DE TOURNAS
I thank you, dear Count, only I have no luck -- you name me your intendant at the moment I've come to tell you you have no need of one.
COUNT
Because --
DE TOURNAS
because you no longer have anything?
COUNT
I no longer have anything?
DE TOURNAS
In the past you gave your son authority to arrange your affairs, did you read those papers?
COUNT
No -- I signed without reading.
DE TOURNAS
Ahem, ahem! Well, according to these papers you've alienated all your wealth and you no longer can dispose of anything today!
COUNT
Who told you this?
DE TOURNAS
You notary who received from the Vicomte not only not to advance you any money on next years' income, but not to pay it to you -- it being it seems only a voluntary pensions that your son pays you -- and that he thinks ought to be suppressed.
COUNT
Andre has done that?
DE TOURNAS
He did it.
COUNT
He is incapable of it, I answer for him as for myself.
DE TOURNAS
Go see your notary.
COUNT
That's what I am going to do instantly.
DE TOURNAS
(at the window)
No need to bother; he's here now --
COUNT
Who?
DE TOURNAS
Your son.
COUNT
Him?
DE TOURNAS
Himself.
COUNT
Alone?
DE TOURNAS
Alone.
COUNT
(with emotion)
Is he going to his place? No --he's looking this way and he's taking the stairs two at a time.
COUNT
He's coming here then?
DE TOURNAS
Doubtless.
COUNT
How does he seem?
DE TOURNAS
I am unable to make out.
COUNT
(hearing his steps with deep emotion)
Andre.
(rushing to the door)
ALBERTINE
(appears before the Count rushes the door and at the moment Andre opens it)
My dear Tournas, I am ready.
ANDRE
(who has taken off his hat, but remains in the doorway without bowing to de Tournas or Albertine)
Pardon, father! You're not alone!
COUNT
(aside)
You!
(in a cold tone)
You see quite well --
ANDRE
I'll retire, I was expecting to present myself --
COUNT
It is needless for you to retire, the persons who find themselves here -- are going to leave -- anyway, you know them and I am astonished that recognizing them in my home you didn't begin by greeting them.
(Andre doesn't say a word.)
ALBERTINE
The Vicomte is so moved by seeing you again after such along absence - he has so many things to say to you -- and probably so many explanations to give you that he hasn't even seen us -- it's very natural; no reason to wish him ill for it -- and for my part, I forgive him. I'll return in an hour or a bit later -- we have no time to lose of you haven't changed your mind.
COUNT
Less so than ever!
ALBERTINE
Au revoir then!
COUNT
Au revoir!
(kissing her hand and accompanying her to the door -- to de Tournas)
I am also counting on you, my dear de Tournas.
DE TOURNAS
In all circumstances, my friend -- be prudent; be prudent.
(De Tournas bows to Andre, who doesn't respond. Albertine lightly nods her head. Andre remains silent.)
COUNT
Now we are lone, what's it all about?
ANDRE
Father, I came to beg you to tell me what you decisions are for the future.
COUNT
My decisions -- are to live as I please.
ANDRE
Am I allowed to ask you if Mme de la Borderi must continue to frequent this house?
COUNT
You'll have to ask her, she's free to do as she wishes.
ANDRE
Look, father it's impossible for you to have reached this point. A man like you cannot love such a woman.
COUNT
I love you none the less.
ANDRE
You don't so esteem her.
COUNT
I esteem her.
ANDRE
Then you will marry her?
COUNT
It may come to that.
ANDRE
Father!
COUNT
Sir! What, it pleased you one fine day, you and your wife, without even telling me, know where you were going to leave me worried and wretched -- for I was stupid enough to love you, you and her, more than any thing in the whole world -- ! It pleased you further to remain absent for two months without giving me any news of you -- without your caring whether I am dead or alive, finally it pleased you to return, and instead of returning home as in the past, you go to the country and stay there for a week without telling me, without fulfilling any of your duties as son -- or her of her duties as a daughter -- ; it pleases you to enter my home without even greeting the people you find there -- to talk to me like a stranger, to question me in the tone of a judge -- and it's necessary for me, your father to submit to your whims and to answer your questions? You've gone mad, I think -- let's stop this strange joke and remember all the sooner before whom you are --
ANDRE
If i left Paris abruptly, it was seeing you after dinner with de Tournas taking up habits which did not fit in with the life we were previously leading -- I thought that life bored you and our presence annoyed you -- you even told me you wanted to travel -- and having stayed two days without seeing you -- I was able and preferred to leave the field free rather than irritate my wife into --
(hesitates)
strange things which she ought to remain ignorant of.
I didn't write you a letter for two months -- because I wasn't sure my writing you would be as agreeable as I ought to make it. In returning, I installed myself in the country instead of my place, because at your place -- and consequently at my place since the house is common to both of us, there was a person whom an honest woman is forbidden to even meet -- and a blush comes to my face at the thought of the possibility of such a meeting! Finally, Father, I spoke to you like a stranger on entering because seeing you in such company, I couldn't recognize the gentleman whose name my sainted mother bears.
COUNT
(with an emotion mixed with rage)
The name of your mother has nothing to do with this.
ANDRE
That's true, and I ask her pardon for having pronounced it.
COUNT
Let's leave these fine and noble phrases for novels and comedies. Abandoned for one reason or another by mine, I sought consolation where I could. You wish to know my intentions, my intentions are to continue to live as I am living, I recognize everyone's right to find that bad, but I do not recognize anyone, not even you -- especially you -- has the right to tell me so -- I am my own master and I do what I please -- I am not meddling in your life and you won't meddle in mine -- and if that's all you had to tell me -- you can go.
ANDRE
(after a momentary hesitation)
So -- you're closing the door in my face?
COUNT
Yes -- if you don't want to be in my home the way you must be for the people I love.
ANDRE
So -- you won't sacrifice that woman to your name, to the world, to me, to yourself?
COUNT
No --
ANDRE
Well! Then --
COUNT
Well -- ?
ANDRE
Then I will save you despite yourself and close the door of this house to her.
COUNT
Because?
ANDRE
Because -- I am in my house here!
COUNT
There we go! Say it, now at last, this word I knew would be your great argument, but I never thought to hear them escape your mouth. So, that's your last way of constraining me to do what you wish -- that's all your heart could find? You haven't understood that to leave, one day, your father, who depended on you, you owed him more respect and affection. At the end of two months, you would abandon him, at the end of four, you will reproach him for no longer accepting the conditions you impose on him. Take back your money, I want nothing from you -- get out -- not from this apartment, which belongs to you but from my heart, which I had given you completely -- and that I would never have taken back from you.
ANDRE
But --
COUNT
Here -- do you want me to tell you for you didn't dare say it in giving me your reasons for your departure -- : That father who ruined himself, that father who would tear himself apart for your happiness -- bothers you, bores you, and you only ask to be rid of him -- and when to put your heart to the test -- I told you I wanted to leave, you became joyful at the thought of the separation. You left me alone without concerning yourself with what would become of me in such isolation; there's no need to be bothered with a father who depends on us -- you reappear finally -- why? Not because you love this father, not because you want to save him, but because he's spending too much money and that money is yours. So you tell your notary, "Suspend the pension" and armed in this way -- you come to impose your conditions. These are the manners of a lackey -- get out!
ANDRE
Father --
COUNT
Enough, sir, enough -- and no longer let it be a question of these things between us. You can come here whenever you like with your wife -- in an hour this house will be free. No matter where I will be, I forbid you to be there unless I don't owe you something and you come to reclaim it -- for greater security, go into that room -- do your accounts, since you do them so well -- and if I am your debtor I will arrange things so you'll lose nothing. Not another word --
(to Joseph who enters)
Who wants me?
JOSEPH
There's a gentleman who asks to speak to the Count.
COUNT
The gentleman's name?
JOSEPH
He will only tell that to the Count -- it's about a matter of the greatest importance.
COUNT
Show him in.
(Joseph leaves.)
COUNT
Go, sir, go.
ANDRE
I hope.
COUNT
Do what I told you --
(he opens the door, gives Andre his dismissal and shuts the door)
DE PRAILLES
The Count de la Rivonniere?
COUNT
It's I sir -- ! To whom do I have the honor to speak?
DE PRAILLES
To a person who is completely unknown to you and who -- insists on having the honor of seeing you because he is charged with a delicate mission which concerns only the two of us. I am the friend of a lady who has confided to me a letter for you - that I must give only to you.
COUNT
(still distracted)
Where is this letter, sir?
DE PRAILLES
Here it is.
COUNT
The name of this lady?
DE PRAILLES
You recognize the letter, doubtless?
COUNT
(after having looked at the letter)
Perfectly; I thank you, sir.
DE PRAILLES
Madame de Prailles, for there's no use in making a mystery of her name between us, begged me to bring her the response and as I need to depart as soon as possible, I will be thankful if you will give it to me right away. Would you care to read this letter, sir? I will wait.
COUNT
You are sure, sir, that this letter is important?
DE PRAILLES
I am sure of it.
COUNT
Is Madame de Prailles running any danger?
DE PRAILLES
Perhaps.
(the Count rings, Joseph appears)
Take this letter to the Vicomte and tell him that if he thinks he must make a reply that he should do so.
(De Prailles snatches the letter from the Count and rushes to the door. The Count steps between him and the door. To Joseph.)
Leave, Joseph.
(Joseph leaves. To de Prailles.)
COUNT
You are in my home, sir, here. Where are you going?
DE PRAILLES
I am going to take this letter myself to the man to whom it is written and who I wish to meet.
COUNT
Why?
DE PRAILLES
(no longer able to control himself)
Because that man is the lover of my wife, sir!
COUNT
Then you are Mr. de Prailles?
DE PRAILLES
Yes, sir. I ask your pardon for permitting myself this freedom in your home, but you are a man of honor and you understand there are feeling which cannot be resisted. Let me leave, sir -- for this man, even were he your best friend, you cannot prevent me from knowing.
COUNT
Pardon, sir, pardon! But I don't think you really are Mr. de Prailles.
DE PRAILLES
What makes you doubt that, sir?
COUNT
Mr. de Prailles would not have given himself the trouble of bringing his sealed letter -- he would have read it.
DE PRAILLES
No, sir; I found it by chance in Madame de Prailles' papers who was absent for several days; this letter was written some time ago, it was sealed. In my opinion, a man of honor doesn't unseal a letter addressed to another person even if this letter was written by his wife -- but he has the right to bring it to his address, especially when the address bears a name which is unknown to him and that of a man.
COUNT
You are indeed Mr. de Prailles, your area gentleman who has spoken to me -- now, will you permit me, sir -- since I am mixed up in this scandal to ask you what you plan to do?
DE PRAILLES
I counted on giving this letter to the person it is written to, and after he's read it, to insist he communicate it to me.
COUNT
And if he refuses?
DE PRAILLES
If he refuses, I will hit him and I will kill him -- I tell you that.
COUNT
All ruses are permitted, sir, when it is a question of the honor of a woman -- you employed a ruse by presenting yourself as a friend of Madame de Prailles -- but you were more upset then you wanted to allow yourself to appear, I suspected a trap and I employed a ruse, too. There's no one in this room, sir, this letter is for me, and would you give it to me?
DE PRAILLES
(giving it to him)
Here it is, sir, and now?
COUNT
(putting it in his pocket)
Now, I know what the letter contains and I will keep it.
DE PRAILLES
(marching towards him and raising his hand)
Sir!
COUNT
(catching his arm)
A provocation is unnecessary -- I am at your orders -- I will expect your witnesses this evening. The cause of the duel will remain between us.
DE PRAILLES
That's fine, sir. Au revoir!
(he leaves)
COUNT
(alone)
He would have killed him.
(curtain)
A room in a hotel in Fontainbleau.
(Andre enters; Helene runs after him.)
HELENE
Finally, you've got here.
ANDRE
Have you seen Madame Godefroy?
HELENE
She arrived yesterday evening, having received she told me, a letter from you in which you begged her to come tell me you wouldn't return before morning and to stay with me. But you didn't give her any details.
ANDRE
I preferred to give them myself.
HELENE
Well?
ANDRE
Well, we are going to return to your aunt.
HELENE
What happened?
ANDRE
My father kicked me out of his house.
HELENE
Kicked you out? It's impossible.
ANDRE
It's all too true, my poor child. We have no longer anything to do either in Paris, in Fontainbleau, nor even in France. Go give your orders and we will leave.
HELENE
Your father is still living in our house?
ANDRE
Still. I returned to him the papers which constituted me the proprietor, and wrote him that he could remain since we were leaving again. I never had any intention of dispossessing him. It was a means I was using, that's all.
HELENE
Do I have time to go to Paris and return?
ANDRE
And what will you do there?
HELENE
I will see your father. I certainly won't let you leave falling out with him. There must have been an error there -- and it's I who will repair it -- for I am certainly the cause of it.
ANDRE
You! How?
HELENE
Perhaps, he will believe me capable of having demanded this separation. He was already a little jealous of me. Anyway, where will I be in the family, me -- the wife -- if I don't conciliate? Come, my friend, let me leave, I must, I ought to, I want to.
ANDRE
I will no more permit you today to meddle in what happened, than I permitted you to for the last two months -- for my opinion, contrary to yours is that the chaste spouse, like you, just remain outside the divisions of the family which have a cause such as this one. For the rest, honest affections are without power against unspeakable passions. Therefore you won't go to Paris. I know your taste for good thoughts which you would like to act on -- I only report that you didn't come, but in kicking me out, my father kicked you out, too -- for he cannot repulse one of the two of us without repulsing the other. So now it's up to him -- if he wants to see us again to come to us or to call us. Go give your orders and we will leave as soon as possible.
(he kisses her on the face and accompanies her to the side door)
COUNT
(entering by the main door)
Andre.
ANDRE
(turning, astonished)
Father.
COUNT
Here's a letter for you.
ANDRE
A letter? From whom?
COUNT
From Madame de Prailles.
ANDRE
From Madame de Prailles!
COUNT
One of her friends came direct from Tours to Paris to bring this letter -- he thought it was for me, but he absolutely must be given a response in an hour.
ANDRE
You could have read this letter and judged for yourself.
COUNT
And not bother you! That's true -- I didn't think of it.
ANDRE
I didn't mean to say that!
COUNT
Read it -- I'm a little pressed for time.
ANDRE
(scanning the letter)
Madame de Prailles intends to leave her husband with whom she can no longer live -- she says. She will settle in Paris where she hopes to see me from time to time.
COUNT
That's fine -- that's all I wanted to know. You were right -- decidedly you must put an end to this correspondence and no longer listen to this woman talk. It will be perhaps a little difficult -- anyway, I'll take care of it.
(he tears up the letter)
ANDRE
I thank you for having come to Fontainbleu express for that.
COUNT
(taking a package of letters from his pocket)
Now, take these.
ANDRE
What is it?
COUNT
(pulling out a necklace)
And this, too.
ANDRE
A necklace!
COUNT
A necklace! That's all. Nothing more remains for me.
ANDRE
Will you explain to me.
COUNT
All this is yours. I have made a promissory note for 40,000 francs payable next year -- so as I no longer have anything and you will have to pay this note, I am giving you what I have left to help you.
ANDRE
This punishes me cruelly for what I've said.
COUNT
That's not my intention.
ANDRE
But this necklace had another destination.
COUNT
Yes, I brought it for someone, who, happily refused it. Still, I think it proper not to leave this person without leaving her a souvenir, I cannot do it without your authorization.
ANDRE
Look -- if you lose that woman, well --
COUNT
I don't love her. She or some other one -- little matter to me so long as I have someone to make some noise around me. But I was unaware of what I learned yesterday. I no longer have the right to see Madame de la Borderi, and I've written her never to see me again. I ask you now, in exchange for the little service I am going to render you right now, to see her and since you consent to it, to give her this necklace on my behalf. As for de Tournas, if he has from time to time need for a situation worth 500 francs, give it to him -- he's not the most reputable man in the world -- but he's only to be pitied. Men like me engender men like him. They are without patrimony, without energy, without affection. We involve them in our expensive pleasures, they contact the habit for it, and one fine day we abandon them without troubling ourselves with what will become of them. It's unfair -- we owe them something -- and then we must be a little indulgent of others -- we know not where we'll end ourselves -- those are all my recommendations of thanks to you, I no longer owe anything to anyone.
ANDRE
In truth, one would say you were making your will --
COUNT
It's the will of the past, since it is dead and as I am leaving --
ANDRE
Where are you going --
COUNT
No matter -- where I can live without costing you to much money -- for you'll have to pay me a pension -- but you will write me from time to time won't you? And I can come to see you sometimes?
(Andre hides his face in his handkerchief.)
ANDRE
(with great emotion)
If we were to embrace each other and all this were over --
COUNT
That's all I came for!
ANDRE
Then let's hug each other and let it be over.
(they silently embrace)
COUNT
The two of us were really stupid yesterday -- with our huffing words. Big words between us when it would have been so simple to do what we are doing.
(they hug each other again)
And start over. If you knew how bored I was with that woman. I felt I was in a false situation and I thought of you and said to myself, "He won't come to my rescue, then!" Happily, Providence sent me the pretext of this letter to return here. All is explained now, goodbye!
ANDRE
What do you mean goodbye? I really hope this time we aren't going to leave each other.
COUNT
As for myself, I wish that; but if you still think --
ANDRE
What?
COUNT
That I am going to come back to live with you -- because I no longer have anything --
ANDRE
Oh -- !
COUNT
You indeed thought something else before.
ANDRE
What other thing?
COUNT
Here's what torments me -- here, this is what has been the cause of all --
ANDRE
I don't understand.
COUNT
You are of the opinion, as I am, that we ought to keep in our hearts, right?
ANDRE
Certainly.
COUNT
And you are going to answer me with complete frankness?
ANDRE
What's wrong now?
COUNT
Two months ago, when I told you I wanted to leave, why did you accept my departure with joy since it had been agreed we would never leave each other?
ANDRE
I told you my reasons, yesterday.
COUNT
Those were indeed the only ones -- on your honor.
ANDRE
On my honor! What did you think then?
COUNT
Ah! My poor friend, you will never guess what certain people were saying; that this young girl I loved, or rather thought I was in love with before your marriage, that this young girl -- married to my son -- I still loved, that I was amorous of my daughter-in-law -- or to put it otherwise -- I was a scoundrel! They even went further -- they pretended that you, my son, you suspected me, too -- and that you were not distressed to see me leave the house but the most horrible thing was that in seeing de Tournas, meaning the Bad -- believe in this possibility -- and to hear, Madame Godefroy, that is to say the Good -- telling me her opinion could be the same -- I asked myself with terror if others who didn't know me, could know me better than I knew myself. If in my unawareness I wasn't capable of what they accused me of, and if it wasn't logical that after having been immoral, I had become vicious. That was, I think for an honest man the most punishment for his mad and dissipated existence -- and to be forced to question his conscience without being sure how his conscience would respond.
ANDRE
Ah! My poor father!
COUNT
In the end, some bad things turn out well. In seeing me with Madame de la Borderi, opinion took a new track and said - perhaps regretfully -- decidedly he's only a vulgar libertine!" Today, seeing me return into the family opinion will say. "He cannot do otherwise -- he no longer has anything. I ought to be even more happy with that judgment. Since you know what the truth is -- that's all that's important.
ANDRE
Opinion will say, "He's a man with a heart, a little giddy -- who adores his children -- who settled down when he had to and who married a good and brave woman, who wouldn't have loved him if he wasn't the most honest man in the world.
COUNT
Ah! Scamp! You are not forgiving! Madame Godefroy.
ANDRE
Make an end.
COUNT
Impossible, I didn't want her when I was rich and I cannot want her when I am no longer rich -- I would have the appearance of doing a deal.
ANDRE
What a bad reason. You know quite well you have half what I have --
COUNT
I don't want any of it -- I guard my admirable position of ruined man -- I'm clinging to it. The devil -- ! All the stupid things I did because I had or thought I had money. Now that I am sure of not having money, I am sure of not committing any more follies.
(the bell tolls)
Ah -- the bell -- and I was forgetting.
ANDRE
What?
COUNT
My rendezvous with the envoy from Madame de Prailles.
ANDRE
Write him there is no response. We are leaving -- what do we care?
COUNT
Oh, no -- he went out of his way -- if only for the sake of politeness -- and then it won't be long --
ANDRE
I thank you.
COUNT
It's not worth the trouble and you will be doing better, certainly for me -- call your wife, so I can embrace her -- and then I've got to be going.
ANDRE
Madame Godefroy is with her --
COUNT
Call Madame Godefroy, to -- I will be enchanted to see her.
ANDRE
Helene! Madame Godefroy!
(Helene enters followed by Madame Godefroy)
COUNT
(to Helene as he opens his arms to her)
It's papa! He's returned!
HELENE
And returned alone?
COUNT
Quite alone -- like a big boy.
HELENE
And for a long time.
COUNT
For always if --
HELENE
If --
COUNT
If you really wish it --
HELENE
You have only to listen to what I was saying just now to Andre --
COUNT
I suspected it indeed, my dear child -- and I bless you from the depths of my heart -- love Andre -- all his happiness is in your hands for there is no sorrow, however, great it may be that a woman like you cannot make her husband forget.
HELENE
How moved you are.
COUNT
Isn't that quite natural when I see that everybody still loves me?
(to Madame Godefroy)
And you dear Madame, will you give me your hand?
MADAME GODEFROY
You know quite well that as for me, I will always be the same for you, whatever happens -- Must you still slay the fatted cow? If not you're going to die of old age.
COUNT
I hope we will feast on it tonight. Till later.
(to Andre)
One more time, you --
(taking him in his arms and holding him for a few seconds)
Now -- don't worry -- I'm going to work for you and do good work. I'll answer for that. Later, children, later.
(he leaves)
MADAME GODEFROY
What is it these men have between so they can never be angry with each other?
HELENE
They have this heart.
MADAME GODEFROY
Then here you are happy, children?
HELENE
And you as well?
MADAME GODEFROY
Me as well, and I'm going. You have no need of me --
HELENE
Ingrate! You are leaving us when we are happy.
MADAME GODEFROY
There are days one must pass with the family.
HELENE
And you aren't with your family?
MADAME GODEFROY
Why, no.
HELENE
You will be.
MADAME GODEFROY
Dear girl!
HELENE
That's it -- practice!
MADAME GODEFROY
Till later then --
HELENE
Where are you going?
MADAME GODEFROY
I don't know -- but at all costs, I am going to go to a church. When I am happy, I pray -- it's a habit which doesn't hurt anyone.
HELENE
You are right, go --
(Madame Godefroy leaves.)
HELENE
Then, it's over?
ANDRE
It seems.
HELENE
You see it was very easy -- where'll your father go?
ANDRE
To make his preparations.
HELENE
(in a low voice and looking tenderly at him)
You told him?
ANDRE
Not yet. We spoke only about him -- we will tell him when he returns.
HELENE
Then you are happy?
ANDRE
Completely happy. Also, to preserve happiness and to deserve it, I've resolved to create for myself an occupation, to be a worker, to be a little useful in the end. You see in a man's day there are five or six hours that nature and society insist that one occupy with oneself with serious things. What we are doing is all the more wrong because we are doing it while others work. That's all that my father needs. Occupied, he would have been a complete man. I intend to profit from the lesson, besides, example is everything for children and I intend that mine, when they open their eyes, see their father working.
SERVANT
(entering)
Sir, there's a lady who desires to speak to you.
ANDRE
To me?
SERVANT
Yes, sir.
ANDRE
Show her in.
SERVANT
But it's to you along she wishes to speak.
HELENE
(gaily)
That's fine -- I will retire since you are receiving ladies who want to speak to only you.
ANDRE
I don't understand.
HELENE
I hope indeed, that you don't understand.
(to a servant)
Show her in.
(to Andre)
I am no longer jealous.
(Helene leaves, Albertine enters, veiled.)
ALBERTINE
(lifting her veil)
It's me.
ANDRE
You here!
ALBERTINE
Isn't a hotel neutral territory and besides it's not the first time you received me.
ANDRE
But --
ALBERTINE
Besides, for your conscience, it's a matte of business which doesn't concern you personally -- and it's not Miss Albertine -- for short, you are receiving the Madame de la Borderi -- ____________ and bill collector. Yes! The Count de la Rivonniere wrote me yesterday that we must never see each other any more. So be it! It's his right never to see him again -- but he forgot he signed a bill of exchange.
ANDRE
A promissory note for 40,000 francs -- he told me.
ALBERTINE
(who has put on a pince nez and rummaged in his purse)
Here it is!
ANDRE
Is it subscribed to you.
HELENE
It's subscribed to a banker that I know -- but it was suitable, in my opinion that the signature of the court should be drawn into those places -- I reimbursed him and that's how I find myself a bill collector.
ANDRE
Then we owe you?
ALBERTINE
Forth thousand francs.
ANDRE
Plus commission?
ALBERTINE
Of course.
ANDRE
Fifty thousand francs, almost.
ALBERTINE
Exactly! Moreover, there's the business of the necklace.
ANDRE
Here it is -- I've been charged to return it to you.
ALBERTINE
I don't want it. It's a jewel for a society lady. I am not rich enough to forgo so much income.
ANDRE
You estimate it as 20,000 francs then?
ALBERTINE
Yes -- plus five.
ANDRE
That brings us to 70,000 francs. Is that all?
ALBERTINE
All that remains is for me to give you the keys to the cellars and the closets -- you will see in what condition the house is in.
ANDRE
My father wrote to you?
ALBERTINE
Sometimes.
ANDRE
Where are those letters?
ALBERTINE
Here they are. I was returning them to you.
ANDRE
(tearing them)
For the keys and the letters 20,000 francs, is that enough?
ALBERTINE
More than acceptable.
ANDRE
One cannot pay to much for the happiness of getting his father back.
ALBERTINE
Here's your little slip of paper.
ANDRE
(after having read it)
And here's a good one on my banker.
ALBERTINE
(after having read the paper)
Thanks.
(she puts it in her purse)
So, you've seen our father again?
ANDRE
Yes --
ALBERTINE
And he's going to live with you again.
ANDRE
Exactly.
ALBERTINE
And he's very right to do so! It's no longer done in our world to do beat around the bush -- I told him so yesterday. And I saw indeed from the letter I found when I returned that he did not have to struggle against his decision. Finally, he must be comforted -- you will give him my affection --
ANDRE
I shan't fail.
(Joseph enters.)
ALBERTINE
(aside)
He was just in time.
(to Joseph)
Here Joseph -- I've never given you anything -- here's 5 crowns for you.
JOSEPH
Thanks, Madame, I don't want your money.
ALBERTINE
(putting the money back in her purse)
So much saved!
(she leaves)
ANDRE
What's got into you, Joseph, to come in that way?
JOSEPH
The Count is not here, sir --
ANDRE
No --
JOSEPH
The Count told me to return to bring him a response by noon -- but at his place, they told me then he was at Fontainbleu.
ANDRE
He was just here now.
JOSEPH
Was he okay?
ANDRE
Yes -- why such a question?
JOSEPH
(somewhat embarrassed)
It's that, had disappeared since yesterday evening -- and that -- I was afraid -- but now that I now -- did he tell you where he was going?
ANDRE
He told me he was going to take a reply to a letter --
JOSEPH
To a letter from Madame de Prailles?
ANDRE
How do you know that?
JOSEPH
I am coming from Tours where the Count sent me yesterday. I brought back Madame de Prailles.
ANDRE
Where?
JOSEPH
Her in Fontainbleau -- Hotel de Londies.
ANDRE
What's all this mean?
JOSEPH
It means that the Count deceived you -- but he must have been troubled when he left you.
ANDRE
Why, no -- he was gay.
JOSEPH
The Count is so brave!
ANDRE
So brave! What do you mean?
JOSEPH
The Vicomte is a man -- it's better he should know everything.
ANDRE
My father -- ?
JOSEPH
Is fighting at this very moment.
JOSEPH
Is fighting at this very moment.
ANDRE
My father is fighting?
JOSEPH
Yes, sir --
ANDRE
Where?
JOSEPH
Here, at Fontainbleau -- he wanted to fight near you -- in the event that --
ANDRE
And who is he fighting with?
JOSEPH
With Mr. de Prailles.
ANDRE
For me, then?
JOSEPH
Yes, sir -- I heard everything yesterday.
ANDRE
Misfortune!
HELENE
(entering)
What's wrong?
ANDRE
My father?
HELENE
Well?
ANDRE
My father! My poor father! To whom I've been so bad -- he's fighting.
HELENE
Your father is fighting?
ANDRE
And that man will kill him -- you see -- and is because of me.
HELENE
Because of you?
MADAME GODEFROY
(entering)
What's the matter with you?
ANDRE
(throwing himself in her arms)
My father is dad, I am sure of it, my good Madame Godefroy.
MADAME GODEFROY
The Count?
HELENE
The Count is fighting.
MADAME GODEFROY
Oh, my God!
ANDRE
I must find him -- and if that man --
(Running towards the door -- hardly has he taken a step when the Count appears in the doorway. Each of the characters collapse into a chair.)
JOSEPH
It's monsieur.
COUNT
What's the matter with all of you?
ANDRE
(beaten, unable to turn his head)
You're not wounded?
COUNT
Then you know -- ?
ANDRE
I know everything.
(giving him his hand)
You cam back just in time.
COUNT
When you consider -- if I hadn't found myself there when this man came, perhaps this hour your wife would no longer have a husband and I would no longer have a son? Do you think that I am corrected now and that I will never leave you again?
ANDRE
And Mr. de Prailles?
COUNT
Ah -- he fights very well!
ANDRE
Wounded?
COUNT
Yes.
ANDRE
Dangerously?
COUNT
So it seems -- in defending the most sacred thing -- the honor of his wife. That sword blow somewhat resembles a bad deed. But I was thinking of you -- I still couldn't let myself kill now.
ANDRE
And Madame de Prailles.
COUNT
She's with her husband -- who loves her -- the rest is her concern. Go kiss your wife.
ANDRE
(giving her his hand)
I had forgotten her.
(De Ligneroy enters.)
COUNT
(to de Ligneroy)
Well --
DE LIGNEROY
Mr. de Prailles will be convalescent for two months.
ANDRE
Ah, it's you dear friend! But who was my father's witness?
DE LIGNEROY
De Tournas.
COUNT
I had only him at hand.
ANDRE
Where is he?
DE LIGNEROY
He went with Albertine -- she led him away.
ANDRE
Then she knew that my father was fighting?
DE LIGNEROY
Precisely.
ANDRE
I understand -- she didn't want to wait for the outcome -- come -- it's complete!
DE LIGNEROY
Yes -- she'll make a find Madame de Tournas.
ANDRE
You think that?
DE LIGNEROY
As the song says, there have to be all sorts of husbands and this de Tournas must come to that - -when prodigals have heart, my dear Count, they end like you -- when they don't, they end like him.
MADAME GODEFROY
When you go to leave France, my friend, you are happy! As for me, I'm staying, but remember -- if you are ever sad -- you don't have a better friend than me -- and that one is never loved too much -- even by his wife!
COUNT
(aside)
She's getting there.
JOSEPH
The post chaise if ready for the Vicomte.
COUNT
We are traveling post. Why this _____?
ANDRE
Because of my wife.
COUNT
(joyous)
Is she -- ?
ANDRE
Yes --
COUNT
Receive my congratulations, my friend.
Come here so I can give you some advice. You won't say that I never warned you.
(hugging him)
Love the baby as I loved you -- ! But don't raise him the way I raised you!
(curtain)