The Women's War
Drama in Five Acts
by Alexandre Dumas père, 1849
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.
For more information on this play, click here.
To Conrad - Yet another project that would never have come to fruition without your encouragement and support.
Table of Contents
Characters
The Ferry of Ison. At the front, the road leading to the ferry. To the right a tree with nets drying on it, and a bench to the left, the Ferryman's cabin. Further back, the Dordogne River.
(The Ferryman is sleeping in his cabin. Ferguson is up the tree.)
FERGUSON
Nothing by land; nothing by sea. Forty degrees of heat and the grasshoppers are en mass. That's all. You can come, Captain.
CAUVIGNAC
(appearing)
Good!
(calling in a half voice)
You can come Barrabas.
BARRABAS
Here I am!
CAUVIGNAC
Where is Carrotel?
BARRABAS
He found a fig tree and he's eating some figs.
CAUVIGNAC
Have you looked out the window?
BARRABAS
I looked.
CAUVIGNAC
What's the Ferryman doing?
BARRABAS
Sleeping.
CAUVIGNAC
Well, we are still short one man.
BARRABAS
Frigotin? He won't fail.
CAUVIGNAC
Where is he then?
BARRABAS
He's visiting the fish market; but he doesn't have a key.
CAUVIGNAC
Fine!
(goes into the cabana and shouts)
Hey!
BARRABAS
I have to have a talk with him. Hey, Mr. Ferryman.
FERRYMAN
(groaning)
Hum!
CAUVIGNAC
Come, come, a little good humor -- some good humor for a shilling.
FERRYMAN
A shilling -- the Devil!
CAUVIGNAC
Let's get a move on.
FERRYMAN
You want to cross the river, sir.
CAUVIGNAC
We are at the Ison Ferry, right?
(Barrabas goes int the cabana through the window and makes a search.)
FERRYMAN
Yes, sir.
CAUVIGNAC
And this little house in the trees, isn't it inhabited by a young lady of 20 or 22?
FERRYMAN
Yes, exactly, and by a little chamber maid who has such eyes --
CAUVIGNAC
Do you know the lady's name?
FERRYMAN
No.
CAUVIGNAC
And the name of the servant?
FERRYMAN
Oh, that one, that's another matter. That's Mademoiselle Francinette.
CAUVIGNAC
That's it! Is the dock in good shape?
FERRYMAN
If you don't fish.
CAUVIGNAC
Ah! You fish? It seems to me you don't fish in your hut.
FERRYMAN
Damn -- when it's too hot, I sleep.
CAUVIGNAC
Apropos of the heat, is one absolutely forced to cool off in the river when one is at the Ison Ferry and one is thirsty?
FERRYMAN
No -- if you have a tongue, you ask for wine and if you have money.
CAUVIGNAC
Yes -- you pay -- go find a bottle -- make it the best.
FERRYMAN
I am going.
(He goes to the cellar -- Cauvignac follows him. Hardly has he gone in the cellar when Cauvignac locks the door and bolts it.)
CAUVIGNAC
There.
FERRYMAN
Well, what are you doing?
CAUVIGNAC
What Cardinal Mazarin does when he finds a treasure.
FERRYMAN
What does he do?
CAUVIGNAC
He locks it up.
FERRYMAN
But you promised me a shilling.
CAUVIGNAC
An honest man has only his word, and since that's all I have, you shall have it. Now, gentlemen, come forward in the order I call you, Lt. Barrabas.
BARRABAS
Present!
CAUVIGNAC
Ensign Ferguson.
FERGUSON
Present!
CAUVIGNAC
Sergeant Carrotel, Lance Corporal Frigotin.
CARROTEL and FRIGOTIN
Present!
CAUVIGNAC
Gentlemen, you are the cadre of a corps which does not yet exist, it's true, but which cannot fail to exist if you give me intelligence and unanimous help.
BARRABAS
We will, Captain.
CAUVIGNAC
Since our entry into the country, we have escorted the Royal Tax Collector, who raised contributions for His Majesty, and who having passed over this ferry this morning to get to Lebourn, must necessarily recross it tonight. Do not forget this detail.
BARRABAS
No, Captain.
CAUVIGNAC
In foreknowledge of an event which can be favorable to our interests.
BARRABAS
In the return to the tax collector?
CAUVIGNAC
Yes! I thought it our military duty to occupy the ferry of Ison on the Dordogne, a position which commands the river.
BARRABAS
Very good!
CAUVIGNAC
Moreover, I am waiting on a high and mighty lord.
BARRABAS
A high and mighty lord? Ah!
CAUVIGNAC
With whom I have to settle some family business. Without doubt, he will bring an escort with him. I desire not to be disturbed during our conference. Watch the escort and at the first gesture I make, fire to the top of my belt. Now -- hats off, hide your arms. We are boatmen and fisherman at the ferry of Ison -- and we are waiting.
BARRABAS
For the fish to die, right?
FERGUSON
Oh, for the game to pass, understood.
CAUVIGNAC
They are full of intelligence. By the way, a last recommendation, you see that little house?
BARRABAS
Down there among the trees?
CAUVIGNAC
Yes, it could be that in your courses, you might wish to enter there for one reason or another.
BARRABAS
Damn!
CAUVIGNAC
Well, I desire that you not enter. It is inhabited by someone in my family. And now, take the most innocent airs you can. I have spoken.
BARRABAS
I am going to fish with a line.
FERGUSON
I am going to mend the nets.
CARROTEL
I will return to my fig tree.
CAUVIGNAC
Ah, Devil! Already someone is coming to us.
BARRABAS
Game or fish?
CAUVIGNAC
Game!
BARRABAS
(looking)
Oh! Oh! There's some type of game that eats the huntsmen.
FERGUSON
Bah! The tax collector. They're to be swallowed, they're sweet like honey.
TAX COLLECTOR
(entering)
Ferryman -- hey.
CAUVIGNAC
Here, sir.
TAX COLLECTOR
Are you the Ferryman of Ison?
CAUVIGNAC
Yes, I am.
TAX COLLECTOR
Come on! You are Ramoneau -- Ramoneau who ferries me all the time?
CAUVIGNAC
I didn't say I am Ramoneau, I told you I am the Ferryman.
TAX COLLECTOR
Yeah! What does that mean? Oh, I had those five brave partisans who gave me such a good escort on my way -- tell me, my friend, haven't you seen five armed men.
(noticing Barrabas)
Oh! Oh!
BARRABAS
What?
TAX COLLECTOR
He seems to recognize me.
BARRABAS
Well?
TAX COLLECTOR
Yes indeed, yes indeed.
(They surround him.)
TAX COLLECTOR
What's he doing? It's you who accompanied me, right?
CAUVIGNAC
But yes, Mr. Tax Collector.
TAX COLLECTOR
It was you helped me three days ago when the workers refused the tax. It was you who pulled me from the water when I fell in the river and you did me a proud service, for I do not know how to swim, again, it was you who helped me to fill the King's purse.
CAUVIGNAC
Eh! My God! Yes. It's just what we were saying just now.
TAX COLLECTOR
Ah! I am saved then, ah, my dear friends!
CAUVIGNAC
Saved! Were you by chance running any danger?
TAX COLLECTOR
Damn, you see, at first impression, the absence of Ramoneau and then this disguise.
CAUVIGNAC
What do you mean, the disguise?
TAX COLLECTOR
Yes, this beard -- yesterday, your beard was short and black.
CAUVIGNAC
And today it is long and white; I am going to explain to you, my friend.
(he signals his companions while the Tax Collector listens)
Here it is, the heat of a resolve which I took last night made my beard grow more quickly than ordinary -- and the anguish which followed on this resolution.
TAX COLLECTOR
Well?
CAUVIGNAC
It made it go white as you see.
TAX COLLECTOR
And what was this resolution?
CAUVIGNAC
I reflected that civil war is a horrible calamity. I reflected that the Queen with her insolence, Monsieur de Mazarin with his avariceousness, the King with the powerlessness of his youth was going to rain a deluge of misfortunes on France.
BARRABAS
Oh! Oh! Oh!
TAX COLLECTOR
Ah! Bah!
CAUVIGNAC
I reflected the Monsieur de Conde, to the contrary, this hero, the conqueror of Rochborg at Lens, at Fribourd, this cavalier who has saved France from Sprague, can yet from the depths of prison where Mazarin makes him shiver, still save the kingdom from misery and anarchy.
TAX COLLECTOR
With the result that?
CAUVIGNAC
With the result that, after some struggle, after some debate to which our patriotism and conscience carried us -- we have abandoned the King's side -- right Lieutenant?
BARRABAS
Alas, yes!
TAX COLLECTOR
Ah! Well, the King is losing brave men and it's a great misfortune for France, a misfortune for which I tremble. Let me cross, quickly, gentlemen.
CAUVIGNAC
They are going to let you cross.
BARRABAS
(aside)
Huh? What's he saying?
CAUVIGNAC
Thus, my friend, you, in a cold sweat, will announce on the other side of the river that my army and myself are now for the Prince.
TAX COLLECTOR
I will announce it, but I am sure no one will believe me.
CAUVIGNAC
Oh! I am sure that they will believe you.
TAX COLLECTOR
No.
CAUVIGNAC
Yes, in fact, when they see you arrive without your saddlebags.
TAX COLLECTOR
What do you mean without my saddlebags? I have my saddlebags.
CAUVIGNAC
Doubtless, but once we've taken them, you won't anymore.
TAX COLLECTOR
What? You will take my money?
CAUVIGNAC
Your money? Never! The King's money, you bet!
TAX COLLECTOR
But sir, this money --
CAUVIGNAC
We have to keep it in our quality, as servants of the Prince. Come, Barrabas, my friend shut these saddlebags in the coffers of Monsieur de Conde.
TAX COLLECTOR
But that's a theft!
CAUVIGNAC
No, it's a seizure.
TAX COLLECTOR
It's piracy!
CAUVIGNAC
No, it's war.
TAX COLLECTOR
I protest.
CAUVIGNAC
It's your right.
(one hears the ferry clock)
What's that?
BARRABAS
Milord, the Duke D'Epernon.
TAX COLLECTOR
Help!
CAUVIGNAC
Close his mouth, Carrotel.
BARRABAS
Where shall we put him? In the cellar?
CAUVIGNAC
With Ramoneau? Not at all! They will conspire together against the Prince.
BARRABAS
Where then?
CAUVIGNAC
Where you wish! What the Devil, invent.
FRIGOTIN
(a key in his hand)
Ah, I've got it.
BARRABAS
What?
FRIGOTIN
The key to the fish market. We are going to have a famous supper.
BARRABAS
Ah! In the fish market! That's it. Come Frigotin!
FERGUSON
Alert! Alert!
DUKE
(from the other side)
Hey! Ferryman, didn't you hear the clock?
CAUVIGNAC
Ferguson, go find the travellers.
FERGUSON
I am going, Captain.
(leaving)
Five man escort, a cape, a gilded hat, an insolent air. It's the Duke in person.
CAUVIGNAC
Attention, gentlemen! Each to his post.
(Carrotel tends the nets. Barrabas and Frigotin, who have shut the tax collector in the fish market, fish. Cauvignac, who has gone back into the house, adjusts his mask under his false beard.)
(The Duke and his escort enter.)
DUKE
Stay there!
(coming forward)
Where is the man who wrote me?
CAUVIGNAC
(coming out)
Here he is!
DUKE
Masked! And why are you masked?
CAUVIGNAC
So that you won't see my face.
DUKE
Then I know your face?
CAUVIGNAC
No, but having seen it once, you might recognize it.
DUKE
You are frank.
CAUVIGNAC
Yes, when frankness cannot do me any harm.
DUKE
And this frankness goes so far as to reveal the secrets of others?
CAUVIGNAC
Why not, when this revelation can get me something?
DUKE
Singular job you have then!
CAUVIGNAC
Damn! One does what one can, sir. I've been in turn, a monk, a lawyer, a doctor, a partisan, you see that my needs are not caused by a lack of profession.
DUKE
And, for the moment you are a spy?
CAUVIGNAC
Ah, how badly you interpret my services!
DUKE
It seems to me.
CAUVIGNAC
Sir, I am a faithful subject of His Majesty.
DUKE
Well -- and so?
CAUVIGNAC
And, as the Duke d'Epernon serves His Majesty, I naturally felt a great weakness for the Duke of Epernon.
DUKE
And so?
CAUVIGNAC
Then, I said to myself! How is it, the Duke d'Epernon who is still young, who is still a gallant cavalier, who is rich, who is generous, who has all possible qualities -- how is it the Duke d'Epernon loves a woman enough to commit stupidities for her?
DUKE
Sir!
CAUVIGNAC
He gives her his money. When he has no more he gives her the King's money; he bought her house in Bourdeau, a country house in Leborne -- he opens himself up to arrest, assassination even, in coming to see this woman and this woman cheats on him.
DUKE
Sir! Sir! You promised to prove that the Duke is deceived to whoever comes in his name and he sent me.
CAUVIGNAC
Certainly, sir, and I am prepared to give you this proof. But you know (against what?) (The countersign?)
DUKE
(pass)
Against a ________; you said it in your letter.
CAUVIGNAC
That's exactly correct.
DUKE
(pass)
And this blanc-seeing), what will you do with it -- once you have it?
CAUVIGNAC
What will I do with it? The devil take me if I know! But I asked for it because it's portable, easy, elastic -- perhaps it will never be of use to me, perhaps in a week. The Duke will see it returned full of signatures like a commercial note.
DUKE
(aside)
Here's a clown I will hang.
(aloud)
Show me the letter.
CAUVIGNAC
Show me the blank-pass.
DUKE
Is this really the signature of the Duke?
CAUVIGNAC
Is this really the writing of Mademoselle de Lartigues?
DUKE
Let's have it!
CAUVIGNAC
Let's have it!
DUKE
One moment! How did you obtain this letter?
CAUVIGNAC
Why do you care?
DUKE
Because in these days forgeries are so adroit.
CAUVIGNAC
Come now! A forgery! I'm a gentleman, sir.
DUKE
Then I will beat you up.
CAUVIGNAC
What's that?
DUKE
Nothing. I ask how this letter fell in your hands?
CAUVIGNAC
You persist?
DUKE
I persist.
CAUVIGNAC
I am going to tell you. An itinerant merchant was pointed out to me who furnishes wares to Mademoiselle Nanon de Lartigues as an agent of the Prince. The merchant goes from the little house you see down there to Saint Mikel La Riviere where M. de Canolles lives -- that explain to you how he was entrusted with this letter.
DUKE
Yes, but it doesn't explain how from his hands it passed to you.
CAUVIGNAC
Quite naturally, I, in my capacity as a royalist -- that was my opinion at the time. I waited for the merchant. Invited him to show me the wares he was carrying. Among these objects was the letter from Mademoiselle Nanon -- to Monsieur de Canolles; I opened it, I read it, I became indignant, and I wrote to the Duke d'Epernon, while making an exact copy of the letter which I had passed on to M. de Canolles.
DUKE
With the result that Monsieur de Canolles ought to come this evening.
CAUVIGNAC
Unless the Duke has committed some impudence. But the letter Monsieur de Canolles has received is not in the hand of Mademoiselle de Lartigues.
CAUVIGNAC
I added in the postscript that for greater security, that Mademoiselle de Lartigues used a strange hand.
DUKE
You have foreseen everything.
CAUVIGNAC
It's true, I have a great deal of foresight.
DUKE
I ask your pardon if I continue to interrupt you.
CAUVIGNAC
But, sir! It's a very great honor for me.
DUKE
You just said something that makes me reflect --
CAUVIGNAC
What did I say, sir?
DUKE
You said "In my capacity as a royalist -- which was my opinion at the time". You haven't always been of the same opinion?
CAUVIGNAC
Indeed.
DUKE
But now -- are you for the King or the Prince?
CAUVIGNAC
I am neither for the Prince, nor for the King.
DUKE
Then who are you for?
CAUVIGNAC
I am for myself.
DUKE
How, for yourself? Explain this to me, a little, I beg you.
CAUVIGNAC
Ah, it's very easy. Cardinal Mazarin right now, is making war for the Queen; you make war for the King. I am making war for myself.
DUKE
Meaning -- I am doing business with a partisan leader?
CAUVIGNAC
Oh, my God, yes.
DUKE
A captain of bandits?
CAUVIGNAC
Exactly.
DUKE
And didn't you think of one thing?
CAUVIGNAC
What?
DUKE
That, after making such an admission to me --
CAUVIGNAC
Well?
DUKE
An idea might come to me?
CARROTEL
What idea?
DUKE
The idea of arresting you.
CAUVIGNAC
In fact, I did think of it.
DUKE
And?
CAUVIGNAC
I've taken all my precautions.
DUKE
All your precautions?
CAUVIGNAC
All! Have a look over there! Hop!
(Barrabas, Carrotel, Ferguson and Frigotin raise their weapons at the Duke's five man escort.)
DUKE
Ah!
CAUVIGNAC
(drawing a pistol from his belt)
Now, look over here.
DUKE
Ah! Ah!
DUKE'S GUARD
Eh! Others! Eh! What the devil are you doing?
CAUVIGNAC
Nothing, nothing! Retire my boys.
(makes a sign and his men vanish)
DUKE
Here's your blank-pass.
CAUVIGNAC
Here's your letter.
DUKE
Thank you, sir. But if we were to meet again, you won't find it wrong it --
CAUVIGNAC
If you hang me? What, Duke? Only catching comes before hanging and I will do my best not to give you this little satisfaction.
DUKE
(to his guard)
Come on --
(He leaves. The guards follow him.)
CAUVIGNAC
Bon voyage! Duke! Bon voyage, gentlemen. We won't meet again.
CAUVIGNAC
Come here, everybody.
ALL
Here we are.
CAUVIGNAC
What did I promise you? Gold and a guarantee! The guarantee! Here! The gold here!
ALL
And now, as the Duke has promised to hang us if he meets us again, I think it wouldn't be bad to leave.
BARRABAS
Let's get going!
FERRYMAN
(from the cellar)
Hey, what about me?
CAUVIGNAC
It's true!
BARRABAS
Ah! And the Tax Collector.
CAUVIGNAC
He's right -- pull the Tax Collector from the fish market, while I release the Ferryman from the cellar -- hurry, come, you.
FERRYMAN
(leaving)
Ah!
CAUVIGNAC
Are you happy?
FERRYMAN
I am happy -- and my gold piece?
CAUVIGNAC
Here it is.
FERRYMAN
My word, it's good money.
CAUVIGNAC
I should think so -- it's the King's money.
BARRABAS
Captain! Captain!
CAUVIGNAC
What?
BARRABAS
The Tax Collector is no longer in the fish market.
FERRYMAN
What, in the market? You put the Tax Collector in the market.
BARRABAS
He's not there anymore.
FERRYMAN
I should think so. There's no bottom of the tank.
CAUVIGNAC
We've drowned a Tax Collector. Save yourself if you can.
ALL
Save yourself, if you can.
(curtain)
A hall in an inn. In a cut away at the right, a large window giving on the highway. In another cut away a stairway leading to the upstairs rooms. To the left another window.
(The Vicomtesse de Cambes is at the top of the staircase, dressed elegantly in male attire.)
FRANCINETTE
You heard, Ms. Biscarros, a pretty supper, the best you have - and a word, like the last, you know.
BISCARROS
And for what time, my beautiful child.
FRANCINETTE
For ten, precisely.
BISCARROS
It will be ready. Who will call for it?
FRANCINETTE
But it seems to me, you know the house since it can be seen from here. Bring the supper -- you will be paid in advance even if you wish it.
BISCARROS
Eh! My God, Mademoiselle Francinette, you know indeed that it is not for money, but still --
FRANCINETTE
What?
BISCARROS
One likes to know who one is serving.
FRANCINETTE
Well, you are serving my mistress, a young widow, 22 or 23 years old, blond, pretty, and giving a supper twice a week. It seems to me that is all you need to know. Goodbye, Master Biscarros.
BISCARROS
Ah! Mademoiselle Francinette!
(He runs after her)
THE VICOMTESS
(going down the staircase to the window at the right of the spectator)
Still no one! Truly, I begin to think that something bad may have happened to this poor Richon.
BISCARROS
(returning)
Ah, pardon, sir, I didn't see you.
THE VICOMTESS
It's that I came in while you were talking with that pretty girl.
BISCARROS
Ah! Young man! Young man!
THE VICOMTESS
Well?
BISCARROS
(bowing respectfully)
Your table is set, sir.
(He indicates a table)
THE VICOMTESS
(sitting)
You know quite well, I don't eat alone and that I am waiting for a companion. When he arrives, you can prepare your meal.
BISCARROS
Ah, sir, it's not to criticize your friend, he is certainly free to come or not to come, but it's a very bad habit to make one wait.
THE VICOMTESS
(rising and going to the window)
Myself, you see, I am astonished that he is so late.
BISCARROS
And I, I am more than astonished, I am pained.
THE VICOMTESS
You - and for what reason?
BISCARROS
The roast is going to be burned.
THE VICOMTESS
Take it from the spit.
BISCARROS
Then it will be cold.
THE VICOMTESS
Put something else on the fire.
BISCARROS
The other won't be cooked.
THE VICOMTESS
In that case, do as you wish, my friend, I abandon the thing to your profound wisdom.
BISCARROS
Eh! Sir, that's no wisdom, my friend, as it is that of King Solomon which can make a reheated meal edible.
(He leaves in despair.)
THE VICOMTESS
(alone returning from the side of the window)
Poor devil! I truly believe that he regards this as a great misfortune. Ah, it seems to me, I see someone. Is it him? No, Richon must come alone, I see two men. Oh! Oh! Who are they then? they're going in the woods. They're hiding behind the branches -- I saw them light a musket. Do they want my two treasures, gold pieces. No, for in supposing that Richon arrives this evening and that I can go to Lebourn, that is to say far away from the corner where these men are lying in ambush.
POMPEY
(appears on the stairway)
Sir! Sir!
THE VICOMTESS
Ah, it's you, Pompey.
POMPEY
Hush!
THE VICOMTESS
What's wrong?
POMPEY
I'm watching while you are here.
THE VICOMTESS
Fine, Pompey, fine. And what have you seen?
POMPEY
An ambush is in preparation.
THE VICOMTESS
An ambush!
POMPEY
Trust an old soldier.
THE VICOMTESS
I trust you more, my brave Pompey, since I have seen what you have seen.
POMPEY
Two man, right?
THE VICOMTESS
Two men, yes. And two others here.
POMPEY
(coming down the stairs)
More?
THE VICOMTESS
Only, those are hiding on the other side of the road.
POMPEY
Ambush! Ambush! I believe we won't do badly to barricade us, sir, although the house is poorly built to withstand a siege. During this time, we will send you for help at Lebourn.
THE VICOMTESS
Pompey, my dear Pompey, you forget one thing -- it is that, Lebourn is full of the Queen's troops and that we serve Madame de Conde.
POMPEY
That's exactly correct.
THE VICOMTESS
And yet, who told you that they are after us?
POMPEY
Sir, when one is on campaign, you must always have an eye on the enemy.
THE VICOMTESS
Wait, we are going to learn what enemy they are after.
POMPEY
In any case, I am going to put myself in readiness.
(He takes a musket and walks about ferociously at the top of the staircase.)
THE VICOMTESS
(sitting by the table)
Master Biscarros! Master Biscarros!
(Biscarros enters.)
BISCARROS
(sticking his head around the door)
Did you call me, sir? Do you perchance see your companion coming?
THE VICOMTESS
No, but I have some information to ask of you.
(Biscarros enters holding a half plucked chicken.)
POMPEY
Him! Him!
BISCARROS
Huh?
THE VICOMTESS
Pay no attention -- you know the neighborhood, right?
BISCARROS
Certainly. I am from these parts.
THE VICOMTESS
Well, I want to ask you, if there's no indiscretion in my asking, to whom does that little house belong that can be seen down there?
BISCARROS
Devil! Devil!
THE VICOMTESS
Ah -- it appears.
BISCARROS
No, but you see, I can't tell you what I don't know myself.
THE VICOMTESS
That's very true -- in any case, it must belong to a woman for just now I saw her appear on her balcony.
BISCARROS
And a charming woman, a widow.
THE VICOMTESS
A widow.
BISCARROS
(mysteriously)
But the shade of her first husband, and even of her second come visit her from time to time. Only there's one strange thing -- the shades agree between themselves probably and never come the same day or rather the same night.
POMPEY
Hum! Hum!
THE VICOMTESS
Fine, Pompey, fine! Well, then be an apparition this evening, Master Biscarros.
BISCARROS
I would be tempted to believe it, because the chamber maid, this pretty girl you just saw here, came to command a frier supper at 10 p.m.
THE VICOMTESS
And to whom does the lady widow give a supper this evening?
BISCARROS
To one of the two shades probably.
THE VICOMTESS
Have you ever seen these two shades?
BISCARROS
One is a shade of 55 to 60 years and he seems to me to have the air of her first husband for he comes openly, like a shade sure of the priority of his rights.
THE VICOMTESS
And the other?
BISCARROS
The other is that of a young man of 24 or 25 years, and I must say it, he is more timid, and has the air of a soul in pain -- I would swear it is the soul of her second husband.
THE VICOMTESS
And that, because -- ?
BISCARROS
Because it comes here, stops, looks, explores the woods, the ravines, the plains, still I understand.
THE VICOMTESS
And which of the two shades is expected today?
BISCARROS
Give me your hand, Vicomte.
(leading her to the other window)
Look -- hush!
(He retires smiling.)
THE VICOMTESS
This young man who is coming on horseback?
BISCARROS
Hush!
THE VICOMTESS
He's the shade of her second husband?
BISCARROS
(as he leaves)
Hush.
THE VICOMTESS
Pompey!
POMPEY
(taken by surprise)
Close the trunk, and have everything ready for our departure.
POMPEY
And the ambush.
THE VICOMTESS
It's not us they are after.
POMPEY
Ah, damn! You've done well to tell me that -- the mustard was ________ to my nose, and although it would have been an unpardonable impudence I was going to make a sortie.
THE VICOMTESS
Well, my brave Pompey, instead make a reentry and get ready.
(Pompey goes back in the room.)
THE VICOMTESS
(alone)
Now, I understand everything. The young woman on the balcony is awaiting the chevalier from Lebourn. The faceless men in the woods plan to attack the visitor. Ah, here's one who comes out and goes back to hiding. He makes a sign to others. That's it, indeed. They have seen him the poor young man! They know his heart is down there, that he must make his body go where his heart awaits him. He's hurrying, carelessly, joyously, without realizing that between him and the one he loves ______ a danger. For this ambush, these man armed with muskets. It's death perhaps -- oh, it is impossible to allow this to happen before my eyes. But what to do? Stop the young man that I do not know? Here he is, he's going to pass by -- he's passing by (calling) sir!
CANOLLES
(outside)
What?
THE VICOMTESS
Here - stop, please - yes, yes, come here, over here, this way -- I have something of importance to say to you.
CANOLLES
I'm here at your orders, sir -- what can I do for you, sir.
THE VICOMTESS
Come here, sir, come here, more, for I have something to tell you that cannot be said too loudly. There, now put your hat on your head, for it must be seen that we have known each other for a long while -- and that it is I you came to see at this inn.
CANOLLES
But, sir, I don't understand.
THE VICOMTESS
You will soon. Give me your hand. That's right! Enchanted to see you, sir. Now, don't leave this inn or you are lost.
CANOLLES
Oh! Oh! What's wrong then. Were you set in my way -- by --
THE VICOMTESS
By Providence, yes, Monsieur.
CANOLLES
At least you will explain to me.
THE VICOMTESS
Put your horse in the stable and come rejoin me here.
CANOLLES
Castorin, you hear!
(He climbs through the window.)
THE VICOMTESS
Well, what are you doing?
CANOLLES
Damn, you appear to be in a hurry to speak to me -- so I take the shortcut.
THE VICOMTESS
Oh, sir, sir, I am very much afraid that with all these imprudences.
CANOLLES
I am guilty of imprudence? Truly, I don't doubt it. Well, now we are alone, tell me, sir, what is going on.
THE VICOMTESS
It's that you were going to that little house down there -- where the light shines.
CANOLLES
I?
THE VICOMTESS
You were going there. Don't deny it, but on the route to that house, on the way side, in the somber shadows four men are lying in ambush.
CANOLLES
Four men are in ambush -- and who are they waiting for?
THE VICOMTESS
You!
CANOLLES
Ah -- and you are sure?
THE VICOMTESS
I saw them arrive two-by-two and hide themselves -- two in the rocks two in the trees. Then, when just now you appeared on the road, one of the two made a sign and --
CANOLLES
And?
THE VICOMTESS
And I heard muskets being cocked.
CANOLLES
Plague! The heroes!
THE VICOMTESS
You may laugh. It's just as I tell you, and if the night wasn't dark, you could perhaps see them and recognize them.
CANOLLES
Ah, after what you tell me, I have no need to see them to recognize them. I know who they are to a marvel. But, you, sir, who told you I was going to this little house and that it was I they were waiting for?
THE VICOMTESS
I divined it, sir.
CANOLLES
You are a very charming ________, sir. Ah, they wanted to shoot me. And how many are there involved in this loveable operation?
THE VICOMTESS
Four!
CANOLLES
Oh -- there must be a chief!
THE VICOMTESS
Older than the others - 55 to 60 years, round shoulders, braided hat, white feather.
CANOLLES
The Duke of Epernon.
THE VICOMTESS
The Governor of Guyenne?
CANOLLES
Fine! Look how I tell you my business; I've never done it to others. But never mind, you've done me a great enough service that I won't look too closely. So, it's agreed.
(holding out his hand)
You saved my life.
THE VICOMTESS
Oh, sir, you are exaggerating the service I've done you.
CANOLLES
No, on my honor, it is as I told you. I know the Duke, he's devilishly brutal. As to you, my young savior, you are a model of perspicacity, a type of Christian charity. But tell me, had you gone so far as to foresee?
THE VICOMTESS
Where?
CANOLLES
Down there in the little house.
THE VICOMTESS
How would that be possible for me? I've only been here two hours -- I don't know anyone.
CANOLLES
It's that she's waiting for me -- poor Nanon!
THE VICOMTESS
Nanon! Nanon de Lartigues?
CANOLLES
Ah, what's all this mean? You see some men lying in ambush on the road, you divine whom they are after; I mention a baptismal name and you say the family name. You are a sorcerer, admit it or if not, I'll denounce you and have you condemned to burn by the Parliament at Bordeaux.
THE VICOMTESS
Oh, this time you will admit, it's unnecessary to be wished to ferret you out. Once you had denounced the Duke d'Epernon as your rival, it was evident that if you named some Nanon, it was Nanon de Lartigues.
CANOLLES
You know her?
THE VICOMTESS
What a suggestion!
CANOLLES
Oh -- don't get shocked. Nanon is a charming woman -- full of fidelity to her promises, so much so that she takes pleasure in keeping them, completely devoted to the one she loves for as long as she loves that lucky person. I want to dine with her this evening, but the Duke has spoiled the party. Let's not speak any more of it, tomorrow the Duke will leave and if you wish, tomorrow I will present you to her!
THE VICOMTESS
Thanks, sir, I only know Mademoiselle de Lartigues by name and do not wish to know her further.
CANOLLES
And you are wrong, by God! Nanon. Nanon is a good girl to know in every respect.
THE VICOMTESS
But, while waiting, sir, there is woman horribly compromised and who, if she isn't warned --
CANOLLES
You are right, my young _______ and I forgot, in the charm of your conversation, my duties of a gentleman. Look, you know in actual war, when force won't work, my must employ a ruse -- help me to devise a ruse.
THE VICOMTESS
I ask nothing better; but what kind?
CANOLLES
Wait -- the inn has two doors.
THE VICOMTESS
I know nothing of that.
CANOLLES
Well, I know -- one gives on the great highway -- the other on the country side. I will describe a half uncle and I am going to rap on Nanon's door -- her house also has a rear door.
THE VICOMTESS
Yes, so you can be surprised in the house!
CANOLLES
I will only enter for a short time and then leave.
THE VICOMTESS
If you once enter, you will never leave again.
CANOLLES
Decidedly, you are a magician.
THE VICOMTESS
Also, it will be even worse for you will probably be slain before her eyes.
CANOLLES
Bah! There are some closets.
THE VICOMTESS
Oh, sir --
CANOLLES
Ah -- are you a Knight of Malta or by chance are you destined for the church?
THE VICOMTESS
In fact, you are right, sir -- go ahead! For in truth, I don't know why I am meddling in this -- go ahead! But hide yourself carefully.
CANOLLES
Well, I'm wrong and it's you who are right. But how to warn her, by God.
THE VICOMTESS
A letter, it seems to me.
CANOLLES
Doubtless a letter. But who will carry it to her?
THE VICOMTESS
I thought you'd seen a lackey -- in such circumstances, a lackey only risks a few blows with a stock while a gentleman risks his life.
CANOLLES
Truly, I am losing my mind -- and Castorin, as you just said, will do the job wonderfully.
(going up and calling)
Master Biscarros! Master Biscarros!
(Biscarros shows his head)
CANOLLES
Some paper, ink and a pen -- then send me my lackey.
(Biscarros leaves.)
CANOLLES
Now, sir, I hope you will be so gracious as to tell me to whom I owe thanks for such good advice?
THE VICOMTESS
Sir, I am the Vicomte de Cambes.
CANOLLES
Ah good! I had heard a charming Vicomtesse de Cambes spoken of -- who has a good number of lands in the vicinity of Fort Saint Georges -- and who is friends with the Princess.
THE VICOMTESS
That is my beautiful sister.
CANOLLES
Ah, my word, I give you my compliment, Vicomte -- I hope that if the occasion favors me, you will present me to her--I am the Baron de Canolles, Captain in Navailles and moreover, your very thankful servant.
THE VICOMTESS
You are the Baron de Canolles?
CANOLLES
You know me?
THE VICOMTESS
By reputation only.
CANOLLES
And a bad reputation, isn't it?
THE VICOMTESS
Oh!
CANOLLES
What do you expect. Each follows his nature -- I love an agitated life.
THE VICOMTESS
You are perfectly free to live as you choose, Baron.
(Biscarros enters with paper, pen, and ink.)
THE VICOMTESS
But they are bringing you what you need to write with.
CANOLLES
(going to the table)
Thanks.
(aside)
A very singular little fellow.
(to Biscarros)
And my servant?
BISCARROS
He's coming, sir.
(The Countess makes signs to Biscarros while Canoles writes.)
THE VICOMTESS
No one has come.
BISCARROS
No one.
CANOLLES
Huh? What did you say, Master Biscarros.
BISCARROS
Nothing! I am preparing the supper menu with this gentleman.
CANOLLES
Bravo!
(still writing)
Would you like to join me, Vicomte?
THE VICOMTESS
Impossible, Monsieur de Canolles -- I am expecting someone.
CANOLLES
(aside)
Decidedly, his respectable father must have raised him in honor of the Canolles.
(He writes.)
THE VICOMTESS
If the person I am expecting arrives, don't let him come in, but warn me.
BISCARROS
It will be done as you wish. But let him hurry -- or the supper --
THE VICOMTESS
Go, Master Biscarros.
(Biscarros leaves. Meanwhile, Castorin has entered and take a position near his master.)
CANOLLES
Ah, you are there!
CASTORIN
Yes, sir.
CANOLLES
Castorin, you know that for this evening, the campaign is over.
CASTORIN
What do you say, sir?
CANOLLES
For me, but not for you, come here -- and tell me how far you've gotten with Mademoiselle Francinette.
CASTORIN
But sir, I don't know if I ought to --
CANOLLES
Rest easy, master stupid, I have no intentions about her.
CASTORIN
In that case, sir -- it's another matter.
CANOLLES
Speak then.
CASTORIN
Mademoiselle Francinette has the intelligence to appreciate my qualities.
CANOLLES
You are in good with her, right, Mr. Lackey? Very good, take this letter then and go by way of the meadow.
CASTORIN
I know the road.
CANOLLES
That's true! Go knock at the service entrance. Doubtless you know this door.
CASTORIN
Perfectly.
CANOLLES
And deliver this letter to Mademoiselle Francinette.
CASTORIN
(after starting to leave)
Ah, pardon, sir.
CANOLLES
Now what?
CASTORIN
Suppose they don't open the door to me by chance?
CANOLLES
Then you will be a fool, and in this case I will be a gentleman with the right to complain of having a beggar such as you in my service. But you have a special way of knocking I am sure.
CASTORIN
Oh, yes, sir, I have one -- I strike first 2 times at equal intervals then.
CANOLLES
I do not ask you how you rap -- little concern to me so long as they open to you. Go then, and if you are surprised eat the paper or I'll cut off your ears when you return -- if it hasn't already been done -- well -- why aren't you on your way.
CASTORIN
In fact, sir, in fact.
CANOLLES
Well -- what are you doing?
CASTORIN
Sir.
CANOLLES
You know very well it isn't for this door, but by that one.
CASTORIN
It's true.
(He leaves by the door at the right, meanwhile, the Vicomtesse who has been talking at the door in the rear with the Biscarros, returns.)
THE VICOMTESS
And now, Baron.
CANOLLES
Here I am, Vicomte, have you more advice to give me?
THE VICOMTESS
No, but I have a prayer to make to you.
(have to ask you to do something)
CANOLLES
Which is?
THE VICOMTESS
It's to pick the corner you prefer to dine in, since not having any special preference, if you wish to remain here --
CANOLLES
Well?
THE VICOMTESS
I will slip into another room.
CANOLLES
Ah -- ah -- that means -- ?
THE VICOMTESS
It means that the person I've been expecting has arrived.
CANOLLES
And that you wish to rid yourself of Baron de Canolles.
THE VICOMTESS
Oh! Baron --
CANOLLES
Vicomte, you were the first here, the table was taken here for you. It is right for me to retire.
BISCARROS
The Baron's supper is served in the side room.
CANOLLES
All the same, it's not very nice to send me away and let me dine alone like a pauper so that your companion, your friend, your unknown stay an unknown -- in which case, you understand, although having offered to escort you to Nanons, you can indeed, in your turn, no. Very frankly, Vicomte, let's not speak of it anymore.
Master Biscarros, how much do all these boxes cost that are in the window?
BISCARROS
Only three pistoles.
CANOLLES
Here are three pistoles -- go on ahead and if there's something to say about your supper, you will come that way.
(He goes out.)
BISCARROS
Oh -- I have no fear of that, sir.
(He goes out.)
THE VICOMTESS
(going quickly to the door)
Come in, Richon!
RICHON
We are observed, it appears.
THE VICOMTESS
No, not precisely -- but as I was with a gentleman who seemed to me to be rather too indiscreet, I took my precautions.
RICHON
And he is -- ?
THE VICOMTESS
There, in the next room.
RICHON
What's his name?
THE VICOMTESS
The Baron de Canolles.
RICHON
Ah! That's right -- they told me, that the beautiful Nanon de Lartigues lives in this neighborhood.
THE VICOMTESS
Here - not five hundred feet from this inn.
RICHON
That explains the presence of Baron de Canolles at the Golden Calf Inn.
THE VICOMTESS
You know him?
RICHON
Who? The Baron? Yes, I could even say that I am his friend, if Monsieur de Canolles wasn't of an excellent nobility while I am only a poor commoner.
THE VICOMTESS
A commoner like you, Richon, is more valuable than a prince in the situation we are in.
RICHON
Are you sure you were not recognized by him?
THE VICOMTESS
It's not easy to recognize those you've never seen.
RICHON
Also, is what I ought say figured out?
(Biscarros enters with a plate which he puts on the table.)
THE VICOMTESS
In fact, he looked at me a lot.
RICHON
I believe that! You don't often meet gentleman of your description -- that's fine, Master Biscarros -- go! if we have need of something, we will call.
THE VICOMTESS
He's a happy cavalier, the Baron, it strikes me --
RICHON
Happy and good -- a charming wit and a great heart. Gascons you know are never mediocre -- either all good or all bad -- this one is excellent in love as in war -- at once a fop and a brave captain -- I am disappointed that he works against us. Truly, you really ought to have tried to win him over to our causes since chance put him in your way.
THE VICOMTESS
What! That scatter-brain?
RICHON
Eh! My God are we so serious and so reasonable, we, who in our imprudent hands light the torch of civil war as if it were a candle in a church? Is it a man quite as serious as Cardinal Mazarin, son of a fisherman from Pisceria, who becomes Prime Minister not from ambition, but avarice? Is it a woman quite so serious as Madame de Conde who even yesterday was only occupied with dresses, jewels, diamonds and who today commands her own cavalry and engages in a coup d'etat? Is it the leader of a faction as serious as the Duke d'Epernon who still plays clown and who just put on his first long pants, who disturb all France? Still, I myself am a person so grave -- the son of a miller from Angouleme, the former servant of Monsieur de la Rochefoucauld to whom, one day, my master gave a sword which I bear bravely at my side, imitating a man of war? And now, here's the son of a miller from Angouleme become a Captain, this one's going to be a colonel, a governor of a province -- who knows what? He will perhaps hold for 10 minutes, an hour, a day even, the destiny of a kingdom in his hands, you see this very much resembles a dream, and yet I take it for a reality until the day some great catastrophe awakens me.
THE VICOMTESS
And on that day, misfortune to those who wake you -- Richon! For you will be a hero!
(She escorts him to the table.)
RICHON
A heron or a traitor depending on whether we are the stronger or the weaker.
THE VICOMTESS
True! But on what food have you been eating today, that you see everything for the worst, my dear Richon? Civil war is a sad thing, I am aware, but sometimes necessary.
RICHON
Yes, necessary -- like the plague! Oh, you women don't understand war! You only see an ocean of intrigues and you plunge right in as if it were your natural element. And yet, I said the other day to Her Highness, Madame de Conde, and she agreed with me, women live in a sphere from which the artillery shots that kill us seem to you no more than child's play.
THE VICOMTESS
Truly, you frighten me, Richon, and if I weren't sure of having you there to protect me, I would no longer dare to put myself en route.
(giving him her hand)
But it's useless for you to talk -- under your escort, I fear nothing.
RICHON
Ah -- my escort -- that's right, you made me think of it -- you must leave my protection - Vicomte.
THE VICOMTESS
What's that?
RICHON
The game is broken off.
THE VICOMTESS
But shouldn't you return with me to Chantilly?
RICHON
It's true I ought to remain in the case where I am not needed here. But as I told you just now my importance has increased so much, I have received from the princess an order not to leave the neighborhood of the Fort de Vayres -- on which it appears they have some designs.
THE VICOMTESS
Oh, my God -- what are you saying to me, Richon! To leave without you -- to leave with this worthy Pompey who in pretending to be brave, is a hundred times more of a poltroon than I am -- crossing half of France alone or nearly so? Oh no; I will not leave -- I swear it! I will die of fear before getting there.
RICHON
That's your fantasy, Vicomtess, now take care! They are counting on you in Chantilly, and the princes are not slow to lose patience, especially when they are waiting for money -- speaking of money, are you really rich? I ask your pardon, but it's a question they've strongly recommended that I ask you.
THE VICOMTESS
Not at all; I have great trouble to get my farmers a twentieth of a 20 thousand pounds -- which I have with me -- in gold -- that's all I've got.
RICHON
That's all! Plague! How you go on! To speak with such scorn of such a sum at such a moment. Twenty thousand pounds -- you are not as rich as Cardinal Mazarin, but you are richer than the King.
THE VICOMTESS
So you think this humble offering will be accepted.
RICHON
With thanks! You are bringing Madame de Conde enough to pay an army.
THE VICOMTESS
And you say that they are waiting for this money impatiently?
RICHON
Yes, and if I had advice to give you, it's to leave this very evening.
THE VICOMTESS
This evening. At night?
RICHON
So much the better -- the more obscure it is, the less they can see you are afraid -- and you will meet more poltroons than you -- that will make you flee -- besides, there are soldiers of the King around here and we are not yet at war.
(Vicomtess and Richon rise. Pompey comes in and comes forward.)
THE VICOMTESS
You are right, I am leaving. Don't you have some particular commissions for His Highness?
RICHON
Ah, I believe I do! You remind me of the most important.
THE VICOMTESS
You've written it?
RICHON
No -- there are only two words to transmit.
THE VICOMTESS
Which are?
RICHON
Bordeau! Yes!
THE VICOMTESS
She will understand what this means?
RICHON
Perfectly! And sure of these two words, she can leave in perfect confidence.
THE VICOMTESS
(to Pompey who is listening)
Let's go, Pompey.
POMPEY
What, Vicomte, sir?
THE VICOMTESS
We've got to leave, my friend.
POMPEY
To leave? But there's going to be a frightful storm.
RICHON
What the devil are you talking about, Pompey? There's not a cloud in the sky.
POMPEY
But during the night, we could mistake the war.
RICHON
That would be difficult; you have only to follow the main road and there's a magnificent moon out.
POMPEY
Moonlight, moonlight -- you understand that it's not for me that I am saying this, Monsieur Richon.
RICHON
By God -- an old soldier.
POMPEY
When one has fought the Spaniards and been wounded in the battle of Corbie--
RICHON
One has no more fear of anything -- well, this falls out wonderfully since the Vicomte is not reassured at all.
POMPEY
(to Vicomtesse)
Oh! Oh! You're afraid.
THE VICOMTESS
Not with you, my brave Pompey -- for I know you, and I know that you will be killed before they get to me.
POMPEY
Doubtless -- so now if you are too frightened we must wait until tomorrow.
THE VICOMTESS
Impossible, my brave Pompey. Here place this gold in the ________ of your horse, I will rejoin you in a moment.
POMPEY
That's a gross sum to expose at night.
THE VICOMTESS
There's no danger, or little, Richon said. Let's see are the pistols in their holster, the sword in its scabbard, and the musket on its hook?
POMPEY
You forget, Vicomte sir, that when one has been a soldier all his life he never leaves anything to chance. Yes, sir, each thing is in its place.
RICHON
See if one can be afraid with such a companion?
POMPEY
(to Vicomtesse)
What about that ambush?
THE VICOMTESS
We will turn our back on them. And besides, they were on foot.
POMPEY
And we are on horseback -- I am going to give mine a double ration of hay.
(He leaves.)
RICHON
Bon voyage Vicomte!
THE VICOMTESS
Thanks for the thought; but it's a long way! Oh, bother! Isn't our Baron going to notice my departure?
RICHON
Oh, at that moment, he has something to do -- meaning have his dinner -- and if his is as good as ours it's unlikely he'll leave his table without a strong motive -- besides, I am staying here, and I will keep him.
THE VICOMTESS
Then make him my excuse for my impoliteness to him. I do not wish to -- if I meet him one day in a less generous mood than he was in today he would pick a quarrel -- he so referred, your Baron.
RICHON
You said the word -- he's a man to follow you to the ends of the Earth for nothing but to cross swords with you -- but be easy, I will pay him your compliments.
THE VICOMTESS
Fine -- goodbye, Richon --
(returning)
Say, I am thinking what you said just now -- if this Canolles is as brave a captain and as fine a gentleman as you say.
RICHON
Well?
THE VICOMTESS
Why not attempt to ______ in our cause? He could rejoin us -- be it at Chantilly, be it during the voyage knowing him a little already, I could introduce him.
(Richon smiles)
As to the rest, take it I have said nothing, and do what you think best. Goodbye! Goodbye!
(She leaves.)
RICHON
(alone)
Go enlarge the advice of women to that of men made enough to obey you! Go toss in a new germ of hate or love in the midst of this world of passions! War of Women, War of Women -- oh, how the people in its sovereign wisdom have aptly named this strange war we are waging.
CANOLLES
(entering gaily)
Ah -- there my little gentleman -- hold on, it seems to me he's grown since our separation. Say there, Vicomte, ah, excuse me, it's not you -- but it is death of my life -- it's Richon, a friend of 10 years for a friend of 2 hours. Ah, by God! You arrive happily.
RICHON
Good day, Baron. In what way am I so welcome?
CANOLLES
I needed to find someone to whom to praise Master Biscarros, not even having that clown Castorin whom I sent on an errand and whose bones are already denied as we did. Hear the menu -- says bisque, hors d'oeuvres, marinated oysters, anchovies and caviar, capon in olives with a bottle of Medoc you'll find the barely on the field of battle down there young partridge stuffed with truffles, peas, caramel, a cherry jelly, all washed down with a bottle of Cambertin like the Medoc. What's more, the desert -- Ah, but it seems to me you have not been badly treated. A bottle of Ermitage, a little the worse for wear, by God!
(going to the table)
Richon, it must have been like the others. Ah, I am in a fine humor, and Master Biscarros is a great master.
(coming to Richon and forcing him to sit at the table)
Sit there, Richon. You've eaten; well -- I too have eaten. What's that prove? We shall start over.
RICHON
Thanks, Baron -- I am no longer hungry.
CANOLLES
(pouring wine to drink)
I admit that, strictly speaking, one may not be hungry but one must always be thirsty. Taste some of this Ermitage -- so you dined, dined with the little rascal of a Vicomte? Not at all, I am mistaken, dear friend, he's a charming boy, to the contrary to whom I owe the pleasure of savoring life by his handsome side instead of delivering my soul through the three or four holes that the brave Duke d'Epernon counted on putting in my skin. I am indebted to him, to this handsome young Vicomte, this ravishing Ganymede -- oh, Richon, Richon, you have indeed the air of being what they say you are -- that is a true servant of Monsieur de Conde.
RICHON
Come now, Baron -- not sharing these ideas, you will make me die with laughter.
CANOLLES
(listening to galloping horses)
Eh! What's that?
RICHON
I think I know.
CANOLLES
Say it, then.
RICHON
It's our little gentleman leaving.
CANOLLES
Without bidding me adieu? Decidedly, he's a crank.
FERRYMAN
Not at all, my dear Baron, he's a man in a hurry that's all.
CANOLLES
What singular manners! How was this boy brought up? I would be capable of destroying the home of his tutor, Richon, my friend -- I warn you that hi's well you wrong. Things aren't done this way by gentlemen. By God, I think if I caught him, I'd pull his ears.
RICHON
Don't get angry -- the Vicomte is not so badly brought up as you believe, for, when he was parting from me, he charged me to express all his apologies to you -- and to flatter you a thousand times.
CANOLLES
Fine, fine -- vain table which makes a great impertinence a small act of impoliteness. By god, I am in a ferocious mood -- pick a quarrel for me Richon -- you don't wish to? By God, listen Richon my friend, I find you very ugly.
RICHON
With such a mood, Baron, you will be, if we gamble, capable of winning a 100 pistoles from me, this evening - fate favors those greatly chagrined you know.
CANOLLES
(going to the rear and shouting)
Cards! Ah, by God, Gambling -- you are right, my friend. That's an idea that reconciles me to you. Richon, you are as beautiful as Adonis and I pardon Monsieur de Cambes -- Biscarros, some cards.
RICHON
No, no -- it's not worth the trouble my friend.
CANOLLES
Why not worth the trouble?
RICHON
You see, I haven't got the time to play.
CANOLLES
No time to play, no time to drink.
RICHON
Dear Baron, I have some very pressing business.
CANOLLES
And you are leaving me?
RICHON
I am leaving you!
(going to get his hat and his sword)
CANOLLES
Ah, damn, but I am going to be horribly bored here all alone. I haven't the least wish to sleep. Suppose I proposed to accompany you, Baron?
RICHON
I would refuse that honor, Baron. The business with which I am involved is of a type that admits no witnesses.
CANOLLES
Very well -- you are acting for which side? I was going to beg you not to ask me that question.
CANOLLES
To which side has that Vicomte gone?
RICHON
I must answer you that I do not know.
CANOLLES
My dear Richon, you are, this evening quite full of mysteries, but you are completely at liberty. A last glass and goodbye!
RICHON
To our health and goodbye.
(Richon leaves.)
CANOLLES
(alone)
Bon Voyage! Oh damn! What the devil is there against me in this damn country? Some of them are chasing after me to kill me, the others flee as if I had the plague. By God! I'm no longer hungry. I feel I'm getting depressed. I am capable of getting as drunk as a German. Hey Castorin, come here so I can beat you up. What the devil can Richon have to do with this impertinent little Vicomte, and where do these comings and goings, this air of mystery come from? Ah, double damn -- they're conspiring -- that's it. That explains everything to me. Now, for whom do they conspire? Is it for the Coadjutator? Is it for the Parliament? Is it for the King? Is it for the Queen? Is it for Cardinal Mazarin? Is it for the Madame de Conde? My word, it's all the same to me. I'm getting thirsty again.
(pouring himself a drink)
But Richon, to conspire with a child of sixteen, with --
(noticing a glove that the Vicomtess dropped)
Here, what's this? His glove -- a pretty little glove, my word, scented, elegant, embroidered -- embroidered like a woman's glove.
(trying to put it on)
Wow! What kind of hand is this? It's impossible that a man could wear such a glove. Oh triple fool that you are Canolles -- that blush, that reserve, the refusal to dine with me, those delicacies on behalf of poor Nanon -- he's a woman! A woman! Ah, for goodness sake, Madame, you will allow me -- what the devil! When they save your life you get involved. Biscarros! Castorin! Biscarros!
CASTORIN
(coming in the side door)
Ah, sir! Help. Murder! Assassination.
CANOLLES
Castorin! Come here!
CASTORIN
Oh, sir, Monsieur d'Epernon's swagger stick beat unmercifully.
CANOLLES
(writing)
Very fine!
CASTORIN
Sir, what do you mean, very fine? I was not able to deliver your letter.
CANOLLES
Very fine!
CASTORIN
But Mademoiselle Nanon wasn't forewarned.
BISCARROS
(entering)
Sir?
CANOLLES
My hat, my cane, my sword.
(to Castorin)
My letter?
CASTORIN
Here it is -- oh, sir, my sides. I'll have to stay in bed for two weeks.
CANOLLES
Saddle the horses -- we are leaving.
CASTORIN
What do you mean we're leaving?
CANOLLES
Let's go -- hurry!
CASTORIN
But, sir --
(Canolles raps the table; frightened, Castorin escapes.
CANOLLES
(to Biscarros reentering)
This letter by one of your waiters to Mademoiselle Nanon de Lartigues, to her or to Mademoiselle Francinette, you understand.
BISCARROS
By God!
CANOLLES
And now, the Vicomte.
BISCARROS
What about the Vicomte?
CANOLLES
Yes, which way did he go? What road did he take?
BISCARROS
He went by way of the Paris road.
CANOLLES
This glove, it's indeed hers, right?
BISCARROS
Her's?
CANOLLES
Yes -- his or hers -- little matter! Oh, I will rejoin her, oh! I will kiss the hand that served as the mold for this glove.
(seizing Biscarros by the throat)
Biscarros -- Biscarros, you are a wretch for not having told me that the Vicomte was a woman.
BISCARROS
Baron, baron -- you are strangling me!
CANOLLES
(tossing him a purse)
Here -- and shut up! I entrust you with this letter for Mademoiselle Francinette -- my horse! My horse!
BISCARROS
Is it conceivable, Dear God!, that a mere glove can put a man in such a frenzy?
(curtain)
A boudoir with a door at the back. A large window with a balcony.
NANON
(seated on the couch)
Well, Mademoiselle, what were those shouts we heard just now? Are you informed?
FRANCINETTE
Oh, Madame, it's poor Castorin who wanted to come in here through the little door on the meadow -- and he's fallen, it would seem into an ambush.
NANON
In an ambush?
FRANCINETTE
Madame, I think that the Duke was informed that we were expected Monsieur de Canolles this evening, and that he placed his men armed with muskets on the master's entrance -- and some men with tricks at the servant's entrance.
NANON
Ah, my God -- what are you telling me?
FRANCINETTE
Here, Madame, here -- look in the moonlight.
NANON
Four armed men, preceded by a man in a cloak. The man in the cloak -- it's the Duke.
FRANCINETTE
The Duke!
NANON
(looking at the table)
I am lost. These two place settings, these two chairs -- the table covered -- I will never have the time.
FRANCINETTE
Suppose I order Baptist not to open?
NANON
Not at all! On the contrary -- go open yourself. It's the Duke that I am expecting, not Monsieur de Canolles.
(Francinette leaves. A dry rapping at the door.)
NANON
(alone)
This goblet by the window, it's the Duke's and in its place. This covering is in the drawer. Where is the Duke's table setting? Ah, here it is. Now, the wine, the wine he's used to drinking.
(taking a bottle of wine from an armoire and putting it on the table)
Come, come, Nanon, the rest is your business.
(The sound of a step on the stair can be heard -- opening the door.)
But come, my Duke, come -- ah, my dream did not deceive me, Dear Duke?
DUKE
One moment, Mademoiselle, one moment! And let's begin with an explanation if you please.
(looking around everywhere)
NANON
Now what's the matter with you, my dear Duke? Did you forget something the last time that you came that you are looking around now?
DUKE
Yes, I forgot to tell you I was not a fool, a Geroite like Monsieur Cyrano de Bergerac puts in his comedies.
NANON
I don't understand you, I beg you to explain yourself.
DUKE
Hum! Hum!
NANON
(with a curtsey)
I am awaiting the good pleasure of your Lordship.
DUKE
The good pleasure of my Lordship that you tell me why this supper.
NANON
Because, as I repeat to you, I had a dream which told me that although you left me yesterday, you would return today.
DUKE
And this charming negligee, Madame?
NANON
But it seems to me when I expect Milord, I wait for him dressed for battle.
DUKE
So, you were expecting me?
NANON
Ah, so that's it! Milord, God pardon me, but I think you'd like to search the closets. Would you be jealous, by chance?
DUKE
(taking off his cloak and sitting on the couch)
Me jealous? Oh, no, thank God! I am not so ridiculous. Old and rich, I know that I am born to be deceived. But I intend, at least, to test those who deceive me so as not to be their dupe.
NANON
And how will you test them? I am curious to know it.
DUKE
Oh -- it won't be difficult. I am not dreaming. At my age, one no longer dreams -- even awake -- but one receives -- read this one, it is interesting.
NANON
(takes the letter and reads it)
"Milord Duke is warned that, this evening a man who is familiar with Mademoiselle Nanon de Lartigues will be with her -- and he will stay to supper and sleep over. So as not to leave the Duke in any uncertainty, one can tell him that this happy rival is named the Baron de Canolles."
(aside)
De Cauvignac's writing. Ah I was wise to be rid of him.
(to Duke)
Is it possible that a man of your genius, that a deep politician like you allows himself to be taken in by an anonymous letter. Here, there's your letter.
DUKE
Pardon me, but you haven't read the postscript.
NANON
The postscript?
DUKE
Yes, read.
NANON
(reading)
"I have in my hands the original of a letter from Mademoiselle Nanon de Lartigues to Monsieur de Canolles. I will give this letter in return for a blank pardon which the Duke will send me today at three in the afternoon at the ferry of Ison where I will await him."
(speaking to the Duke)
And you were imprudent enough to --
DUKE
Your writing is so precious to me, dear lady, that I didn't think I could ever pay too much for a letter of yours.
NANON
Then you have my letter?
DUKE
Here it is -- oh -- read it aloud.
NANON
(reading)
"I will dine at 10 o'clock. Are you free? I am. In that case, be on time, my dear Canolles -- and don't worry about our secret."
DUKE
Well, that's plain enough it seems to me.
NANON
(joyously)
Ah!
DUKE
Ah! You have a secret with Monsieur de Canolles?
NANON
Well, yes.
DUKE
You admit it?
NANON
Well, I must since nothing can hidden from you. Now, do you know who Monsieur de Canolles is?
DUKE
He's your lover, Madame.
NANON
You are mistaken, Duke -- he is -- my brother.
DUKE
Your brother? This requires an explanation.
NANON
And I am going to give it to you. At what period did my father die?
DUKE
Bert -- about fifteen months or a little less.
NANON
At what period did you sign the commission as Captain for Monsieur de Canolles.
DUKE
Around the same time.
NANON
Two weeks later, sir.
DUKE
Two weeks later? It's possible.
NANON
It's sad for me to reveal the shame of another woman, to reveal what is our secret, not yours, you understand! But your strange jealousy force me, your cruel manners oblige me -- I initiate you, Duke -- I am wanting in generosity.
DUKE
Continue! Continue!
NANON
Well, my father was a lawyer who didn't lack a certain fame though he died without fortune. At 28 my father was young, my father was handsome -- he loved the mother of Monsieur de Canolles because she was noble and he was a commoner. Love took care of all that as often happens. And during the absence of Monsieur de Canolles on a voyage -- you understand now -- right?
DUKE
Yes -- but, why did this great friendship for Monsieur de Canolles come on you so late?
NANON
Because only on the death of my father did I learn of the bond which unites us.
DUKE
Ah! Ah!
NANON
Twenty times I wanted to tell you this story, very sure you would do much for the man I call my brother. But he always held me back, always begged me to spare the reputation of his mother who is still living. I respected his scruples, since I understood them.
DUKE
Ah, truly.
NANON
And especially since he was refusing to make his fortune.
DUKE
He is a delicate soul.
NANON
And I who took an oath never to reveal this mystery to anyone in the world, misfortune to me for betraying the secrets of my brother.
DUKE
You say "Misfortune to me", Nanon, instead say, "Good fortune for us all." I intend to repair the times lost this dear Canolles. I don't know him or wish to make his acquaintance.
NANON
Well, I will present him to you tomorrow.
DUKE
Tomorrow? Why not this evening?
NANON
What do you mean this evening?
DUKE
Yes, can't the boy come to dine with us? Wait, I am going this very moment to send someone to find him at the Golden Calf.
NANON
So he will know that concerning all my oaths, I told you everything?
DUKE
Never mind, I will be discreet.
DUKE
Indeed, Duke, I am going to pick a quarrel with you.
DUKE
Why's that?
NANON
Because, before, you were more fond of a tete a tete. Look, believe me, it will be time to send to look for him tomorrow.
DUKE
We will see him after supper, darling. Francinette! Francinette!
NANON
What are you doing?
DUKE
(to Francinette as she enters)
Francinette, ask for orders from your mistress.
NANON
(sitting on the couch)
Give yours Duke -- aren't you at home?
DUKE
Go to the Golden Calf and tell Monsieur de Canolles that Mademoiselle Nanon de Lartigues is expecting him for supper.
NANON
(to Francinette who questions her with a glance)
Go! I hope that he will understand in a few words.
DUKE
(sitting near Nanon)
Do you know why I hope to see your brother this evening, darling?
NANON
I do not know -- unless it may be to be sure that Monsieur de Canolles is indeed my brother.
DUKE
Do I doubt when you have said something, darling? No, it's that if it's agreeable to him and you as well, I would have a special mission to give him at court.
NANON
A mission?
DUKE
Yes, but it will separate our and --
NANON
Oh, don't worry, my dear Duke. What does a separation matter, since it will be profitable to him? Moreover, I will serve him ill since I see that you are still jealous, but far away you will make his way with your power. Exile him, expatriate him, if it's for his benefit, so long as the love of my dear Duke remains with me -- which is all I require to make me happy.
DUKE
Well, it's done -- we will send him to Paris -- to the Court -- we will make his fortune.
(a scratching at the door)
What is that?
FRANCINETTE
(entering)
Madame, the Baron de Canolles is no longer at the Golden Calf.
NANON
Ah!
DUKE
The Baron is no longer at the Golden Calf?
NANON
Ah. Surely you are mistaken.
FRANCINETTE
Madame, I repeat what Monsieur Biscarros just told me. He came himself to sit the dinner.
NANON
(aside)
Ah, this dear Canolles must have figured out everything.
DUKE
Tell Master Biscarros to come in.
NANON
Let's see, miss, obey the Duke.
FRANCINETTE
Come in, Monsieur Biscarros, come in!
(Biscarros enters.)
NANON
(seated)
Sir, you had a young gentleman called Baron de Canolles with you this evening, right?
DUKE
(seated near the table)
Yes, what has become of him?
BISCARROS
The gentleman left.
NANON
Left?
DUKE
Indeed left? Truly left?
BISCARROS
Truly.
DUKE
And where did he go?
BISCARROS
That I cannot tell you, for I don't know.
DUKE
You know at least what route he took?
BISCARROS
The Paris road.
DUKE
And at what time did he take that route?
BISCARROS
Maybe a half hour -- a little less.
NANON
What! He left without saying anything?
BISCARROS
Indeed, he charged me to take a letter to Mademoiselle Francinette.
DUKE
And why didn't you send her the letter, scoundrel?
BISCARROS
I did better, I brought it to her myself.
DUKE
Francinette! Francinette!
FRANCINETTE
Here.
DUKE
Why didn't you give your mistress the letter that Monsieur de Canolles sent for her.
FRANCINETTE
Milord!
BISCARROS
"Milord" -- he's some prince in disguise.
NANON
I didn't ask her for it, that's why!
DUKE
You couldn't ask her for it since you were unaware that she had received it -- let me have that letter.
FRANCINETTE
Here!
DUKE
(taking the letter)
Hum!
FRANCINETTE
(to Biscarros)
Imbecile!
DUKE
What is this scrawl?
NANON
Read it.
DUKE
"Dear Nanon, I am profiting from the leave Monsieur d'Epernon has accorded me and to distract me, I am going to use the time to gallop to Paris -- till I see you again! I place my fortune in your hands."
But this Canolles is crazy.
NANON
(breathing)
Mad! Why? Don't you see what it's about?
DUKE
Not the faintest idea.
NANON
Well, Monsieur de Canolles is 27 years old, he is young, he is handsome, he is carefree -- to what folly do you think he gives his presence? To love -- ! He saw some pretty traveler at Monsieur Biscarros' inn and he's following her.
DUKE
In love? You think Canolles is in love?
NANON
Doubtless. Here, as Monsieur Biscarros, haven't I guessed right, Master Biscarros?
(Francinette signals Biscarros to say yes.)
BISCARROS
(aside)
I think the moment has come for me to repair my stupidity.
(aloud)
In fact, Madame may well be right.
NANON
You think so?
BISCARROS
The fact is you've opened my eyes.
NANON
Ah! Tell us about it, Master Biscarros. Let's see, tell us who were the travelers who stopped at your inn tonight?
DUKE
Yes, tell us that.
BISCARROS
There were tourists.
NANON
(breathing)
Ah!
BISCARROS
Just a little gentleman, dark skinned, delicate, plump -- who didn't eat, who didn't drink, who was afraid to travel at night. A gentleman who was afraid, you understand?
DUKE
Ah! Ah! Ah! Yes, I understand.
NANON
Continue, it's charming! And doubtless this little gentleman expected Monsieur de Canolles?
BISCARROS
Not at all! He was waiting to dine with a large, heavily mustached gentleman. He was even a bit rough with Monsieur de Canolles -- when Monsieur de Canolles wanted to dine with him -- but he was not disconcerted by such a little thing, the brave gentleman. Ah, he's a daring companion, and my word after the big fellow left, he rushed after the small fellow who went the other way.
DUKE
Truly?
NANON
Oh! But what makes you think this little gentleman may be a woman, that Monsieur de Canolles may be amorous of this woman, and that he did not take the main road from boredom or capriciousness?
BISCARROS
I will tell you what makes me thank that.
DUKE
Yes, tell us my friend. Truly, you are very amusing.
BISCARROS
Sir, you are very kind. What made me think it -- then -- it's a glove.
NANON
Why a glove?
BISCARROS
I suspected nothing -- I took the dark skinned little fellow for a man when Monsieur de Canolles called me in a fury. He was holding in his hand this little glove which he examined and was smiling, passionately.
NANON
A glove! A glove like this?
(giving him a glove)
BISCARROS
Not at all -- a man's glove.
NANON
(taking it back)
A man's glove? You are mad!
BISCARROS
No, for this glove, belonged to the little gentleman, the pretty little dark-skinned fellow who didn't drink, who didn't eat, who was afraid -- in this glove Madame's hand could hardly get in, although Madame has a pretty little hand.
NANON
Well, Duke, I hope you are sufficiently informed and that you know what you want to know.
FRANCINETTE
(low to Biscarros)
Oh -- you wretch!
BISCARROS
(low to Francinette)
What do you mean, wretch?
FRANCINETTE
Yes, wretch!
BISCARROS
(aloud)
After all, Monsieur de Canolles left, it's true, but he might return at any moment.
DUKE
It's true -- in his letter, he speaks only of taking a gallop. Go see, Master Biscarros if he's returned and bring him here.
BISCARROS
Milord.
(going to leave)
NANON
But you aren't thinking of it! And the supper, Duke? First of all, I am dying of hunger.
DUKE
That's true, stay Master Biscarros. Cortanvaux! Come here.
(Cortanvaux enters.)
DUKE
Run to Master Biscarros' inn and see if Monsieur de Canolles has not returned -- and if he's not there -- look around the neighborhood and inform yourself. I want to dine with this gentleman.
CORTANVAUX
It will be done, Milord.
(Cortanvaux exits.)
FRANCINETTE
(low to Biscarros)
You've just done some fine work!
BISCARROS
Me?
FRANCINETTE
Come on, let's go -- and in the future try to keep your mouth shut!
BISCARROS
(leaving)
If I understood what was going on.
(Exit Biscarros and Francinette.)
NANON
What a misfortune that the stupidity of this crazy Canolles keeps him from the honor you were going to do him. If he had been here, his future would be assured. Wait --
DUKE
What?
NANON
You weren't going to send him to the Queen?
DUKE
Doubtless -- but since he's not here --
NANON
Well, send someone after him and since he's on the way to Paris, the way he's taken is known --
DUKE
(rising)
You are quite right.
NANON
(rising)
Let me manage this and Monsieur de Canolles will have the order tomorrow morning -- I will answer to you for it.
DUKE
Oh -- the fine head of a diplomat. You will go far Nanon.
NANON
So long as I remain eternally at my education with such a fine master -- that's as far as my ambition takes me.
DUKE
Hum!
NANON
What a delicious joke to play on us, huh? Here, let's not lose any time, look Duke, prepare your dispatch -- I will prepare mine.
DUKE
Oh -- mine is short.
NANON
And mine will not take long.
(sitting and writing at the table near the couch)
DUKE
(writing)
"Bordeaux! No!"
(he hides the letter)
NANON
(writing)
"My dear Baron, as you see the dispatch joined to this is for Her Majesty, the Queen, on your life -- take it to her instantly -- it's a question of well being of the Kingdom. Your good sister -- Nanon."
DUKE
(writing)
"To Her Majesty, Queen Anne of Austria, Regent of France."
NANON
(writing)
"To Baron de Canolles on the road to Paris." Here, Duke --
DUKE
Here, darling.
CORTANVAUX
(entering)
Monsieur de Canolles.
NANON
Canolles!
DUKE
The Baron?
CORTANVAUX
I met him not a hundred feet from here.
NANON
(falling onto the couch)
He said I wouldn't avoid him.
(Cauvignac enters dressed splendidly.)
NANON
(noticing Cauvignac)
Him!
CAUVIGNAC
Eh! Doubtless me, dear little sister.
NANON
Cauvignac! Cauvignac!
CAUVIGNAC
(to Duke)
I beg your pardon, perhaps I am in the way?
DUKE
Be welcome, Monsieur de Canolles, your sister and I have been speaking of you for over an hour, and for an hour we've wanted you --
CAUVIGNAC
Ah! You want me -- truly?
NANON
Yes, the Duke has had the goodness to ask that you be presented to him.
CAUVIGNAC
Sir, the fear of being a nuisance has prevented me from claiming this honor sooner.
DUKE
In fact, Baron, I admire your delicacy and I reproach you for it.
CAUVIGNAC
Reproach me for my delicacy -- me, sir? Ah -- you confuse me.
DUKE
Yes, for if your good sister hadn't cared for your interests --
CAUVIGNAC
Ah, my dear sister has taken care of my interests.
NANON
What is more natural than to take care of her brother's interests?
DUKE
And today even, to what do I owe the pleasure of seeing you?
CAUVIGNAC
Yes, to what do you owe the pleasure of seeing me -- ?
DUKE
Well, to chance -- to pure chance which made you return.
CAUVIGNAC
(to Nanon)
Ah!
NANON
Yes, you had left, bad brother, and with no other warning than a short note which redoubled my anxiety.
DUKE
What do you want, dear Nanon, he must spend some time on love --
CAUVIGNAC
(to Nanon)
Oh! Oh! This is getting complicated -- me -- amorous?
NANON
Come, admit that you -- bad boy!
CAUVIGNAC
Well, I won't deny it.
DUKE
Well, well, but let's dine. You well tell us of your loves as we dine. Francinette a place setting for Monsieur de Canolles -- can we put him to the account of the little gentleman.
NANON
Perfectly.
CAUVIGNAC
Pardon, what gentleman?
NANON
Of the little gentleman you met this evening.
CAUVIGNAC
Ah -- my word, that's true -- the little gentleman.
NANON
Ah! Ah! -- you really met him?
CAUVIGNAC
The little gentleman? By God!
NANON
How was he? Look -- tell us frankly.
CAUVIGNAC
My word, he was a charming little companion, dark, svelte, elegant, 15-16 years of age, still no mustaches, traveling with an old squire.
(aside)
Damn, I am giving them what I saw -- so much the worse if it doesn't work.
NANON
That's him!
DUKE
That's him.
CAUVIGNAC
(aside)
Goodness, it is working.
DUKE
Are you still wearing the little pearl grey glove on your heart?
CAUVIGNAC
The little pearl gray glove?
DUKE
Yes, the one you kissed and sniffed so passionately which made you suspect the ruse, the metamorphosis.
CAUVIGNAC
Ah! So it was a woman? Well, I suspected it, word of honor.
DUKE
Come, come, all this is very fine and since the affairs of the King do not suffer by it --
CAUVIGNAC
The affairs of the King suffer for it? Never! The affairs of the King are sacred.
DUKE
They can count on your devotion, Baron?
CAUVIGNAC
To the King? But for the King, I will be drawn and quartered.
NANON
And it's quite simple -- aren't you captain in the service of His Majesty, thanks to the bounty of the Duke.
CAUVIGNAC
(rising and putting his hand on his heart)
And I will never forget it!
DUKE
We will do better, Baron, we will do better in the future. While waiting your sister will in a few words grant you au courant of what we have already done.
CAUVIGNAC
(aside)
That wouldn't be bad.
DUKE
She has a letter to confide to you on my behalf. Perhaps your fortune is in the message that I am giving up -- take the advice of your sister, young man, take her advice -- she's got a good head -- a distinguished wit, a generous heart. Love your sister, Baron, and you will be in my good graces.
CAUVIGNAC
Milord, my sister knows to what degree I love her -- I desire nothing more than to see her happy, powerful and rich -- especially rich.
(Nanon rises.)
DUKE
This warmth please me --
(rising)
Stay with Nanon while I go to occupy myself with a certain clown.
CAUVIGNAC
(at the table)
Huh?
DUKE
By the way, Baron, perhaps you could give me some information about this bandit?
CAUVIGNAC
I? Willingly! Only I need to know of which bandit you speak. There are so many of all types in these times.
DUKE
You are right -- but this one is one of the most impudent that I have ever met.
CAUVIGNAC
Ah, truly?
DUKE
Imagine that this wretch, in exchange for a letter your sister wrote you yesterday, and which he obtained through an infamous act of violence, extorted from me a blank pardon. I wanted to ask you if you have some idea who played the role of informer.
CAUVIGNAC
In truth, no.
DUKE
No matter -- he will be lucky if his pardon doesn't get him hanged.
CAUVIGNAC
You kept his description?
DUKE
No -- but on his pardon I placed a mark.
NANON
A mark?
CAUVIGNAC
A mark? And he didn't notice it, the imbecile?
DUKE
Invisible -- my dear -- invisible to all -- but visible to me with the aid of a chemical process.
CAUVIGNAC
Ah, ah -- yes -- wait, wait, wait, but that's the most ingenious thing, what you did there, Milord. Only you must take care he doesn't suspect the trick.
DUKE
Oh -- there's no danger of that; which of you would want to tell him?
CAUVIGNAC
In fact, it won't be Nanon and it won't be me.
DUKE
Nor I.
CAUVIGNAC
Nor you! So you're right, Milord -- you cannot fail one day to identify this man --
DUKE
Then I will be even with him, waiting to exchange his pardon, he will have received what he desires -- then I will hang him.
CAUVIGNAC
Amen!
DUKE
Now, since you cannot give me any information about this comedian --
CAUVIGNAC
No, Milord, I cannot --
DUKE
Well, I am going to leave you with your sister. Nanon, give this boy precise instructions, and don't let him lose any time.
NANON
Rest assured, Milord.
DUKE
So -- to both of you.
(Nanon escorts the Duke to the door.)
CAUVIGNAC
The Devil! The worthy lord did well to warn me. But what will I do with the blank pardon? Damn, what one does with a letter, I will discount it. Madame de Conde, exactly, wrote to Nanon -- it's business to do at Chantilly.
NANON
Now, sir, to the two of us, as Monsieur d'Epernon just said.
CAUVIGNAC
Yes, darling little sister -- for I come to have a discussion with you.
(He sits on the couch.)
NANON
(with rage)
Sir, tell me how a brother, overwhelmed with my bounties, has coldly conceived the project of destroying his sister?
CAUVIGNAC
I, dear Nanon? Never! I would lose too much in ruining you.
NANON
Do you deny that this anonymous letter was in your handwriting?
CAUVIGNAC
No, since you recognized it.
NANON
So, you confess?
CAUVIGNAC
What have you against this letter? You find it poorly written perchance? That would irritate me with you, it would prove you have no taste for literature.
NANON
But what motive made you write this letter?
CAUVIGNAC
What motive? Nanon -- it's a little act of revenge.
NANON
An act of revenge against me, wretch! But what wrong have I done for the idea of avenging yourself on me to come to your mind?
CAUVIGNAC
What have you done? Ah, Nanon, put yourself in my place. I left Paris because I had too many enemies. That's the misfortune of a political man. I came to you; I implored you -- you remember that? You received three letters -- you aren't telling me you don't recognize my writing -- it's exactly the same as the anonymous letter -- anyway the letters were signed. I wrote you 3 letters to ask you for a wretched hundred pistoles, 100 pistoles -- from you who have millions.
(rising)
Well, my sister repulsed me. I came to my sister's place, my sister shows me the door, naturally I inform myself. Perhaps she is in distress -- it's the moment to prove to her that her benefits have not fallen on ungrateful territory. Perhaps she is no longer free -- in that case, she's pardonable, for you see my heart searched for excuses for you and it's then that I learned my sister is free, happy, right, very rich, and that a Baron de Canolles, a stranger is usurping my privileges and has made himself protector in my place. Then, jealousy turned my head.
NANON
Say cupidity, sir! What did it matter to you if I had or did not have friendly relations with Monsieur de Canolles?
CAUVIGNAC
To me? Fine. I wouldn't have even been uneasy if you had continued to have financial relations with me, ingrate!
NANON
What do you mean, ingrate?
CAUVIGNAC
Yes, ingrate. Do you deny that I had just extricated you from the worst position a woman can find herself in? I profited from this to the extent there remained some money to allow me to dress to the nines -- so you wouldn't have cause to be ashamed of me. Look at me a bit -- it seems to me. I have a nice look this way, eh?
NANON
Hum!
CAUVIGNAC
What do you mean, "hum"? Dear friend, you are difficult -- but never mind. I came here and I understood from the first word, from the first glance that you were floundering in a really false fraternity. I took on my count the adventure of the dark skinned little gentleman; I admitted to have kissed a glove at some risk. Yet, since then, thanks to good old Cauvignac your family novel became a history. My presence saved everything. Your brother is no longer a lie. You are free like the wind, you will sleep soundly -- thanks to good old Cauvignac. As for me, I am installing myself right here -- Monsieur d'Epernon is making me a colonel. In place of a squad of five men, I have a regiment of two thousand; I renew the labors of Hercules! I'll be named Duke and Peer; Madame d'Epernon dies and Monsieur d'Epernon marries you.
NANON
Quit joking, sir.
CAUVIGNAC
Oh -- I am not joking.
NANON
Two things.
CAUVIGNAC
Which are? Speak.
NANON
Prima, you are going to return the blank pardon to the Duke - without that you will be hanged.
CAUVIGNAC
Prima hanged? And second?
NANON
Second: You are going to leave here instantly.
CAUVIGNAC
Two replies, dear lady, Prima -- the blank pardon being my property, I am keeping it. Seconda -- You cannot prevent me from being hanged if it is my good pleasure.
NANON
Oh! It's not just yours.
CAUVIGNAC
Thanks! But it won't happen, rest assured. As for my leaving, in your desire to be rid of me, you forget one thing.
NANON
Which is?
CAUVIGNAC
It's that if I retire, I cannot complete this important mission which the Duke spoke to me of just now -- and which will make my fortune.
NANON
But wretch, you know quite well that this mission is not intended for you -- it is intended for Monsieur de Canolles.
CAUVIGNAC
Well, but am I not called Monsieur de Canolles? Also, consider dear sister, it's not for you to impose conditions on me -- it's for me to impose conditions on you.
NANON
Let's see -- what are they?
CAUVIGNAC
First and most important of all -- general amnesty.
NANON
And then?
CAUVIGNAC
Then pay our reckoning.
NANON
I must owe you something, it seems.
CAUVIGNAC
You owe me the 100 pistoles that I asked you for and which you inhumanly refused me.
NANON
That's all right -- the amnesty is granted.
CAUVIGNAC
Then your hand, dear little sister.
(kissing her hand)
Ah -- and the hundred pistoles.
NANON
(going to a desk)
Here are two hundred.
CAUVIGNAC
Two hundred! Good -- finally I recognize my sister.
NANON
But on one condition.
CAUVIGNAC
Which is?
NANON
That you repair the harm you have done.
CAUVIGNAC
I only came for that -- what is to be done? Let's see -- ?
NANON
Take horse and rush toward Paris until you meet Monsieur de Canolles.
CAUVIGNAC
What must I tell him?
NANON
You will deliver this order to him. But how can I be sure you will complete my commission -- ? If there were something sacred to you, I would insist on an oath.
CAUVIGNAC
There's a better way!
NANON
Which is?
CAUVIGNAC
Promise me 200 pistoles, once the commission is completed.
NANON
That's agreed.
CAUVIGNAC
Well, look -- I don't ask you for an oath. Your word suffices me. So, it's agreed, two hundred pistoles to the person who delivers Monsieur de Canolles' receipt.
NANON
(joyously)
You speak of -- by chance, do you plan not to return?
CAUVIGNAC
Who knows? My own business calls me to the neighborhood of Paris.
NANON
(breathing)
Ah!
CAUVIGNAC
Ah! There's an "ah" which is not only me -- but never mind -- no rancor, dear sister.
NANON
(bringing him his cape and putting it on his shoulders)
No rancor, but to horse.
CAUVIGNAC
In a moment -- give me time to drink a parting cup.
(drinking)
To the health of M. d'Epernon -- he's a brave man.
(curtain)
A bedroom in a hostel of the town of Jaulnay -- door open to the left, door at the rear. An alcove for two beds. A window to the right.
CASTORIN
(sleeping on some chairs)
It's astonishing! It seems to me I'm still on horseback and that motion -- oh -- the sun's nice when one can sleep. Ah, the Baron does well not to get here for two hours. I will already have taken a nap.
HOST
(below)
This way, sir, there.
CASTORIN
Huh? What's that? Decidedly no bed.
HOST
(coming in the left side door)
This way, sir, this way -- here's the man you are looking for, I think.
CANOLLES
What -- the clown is sleeping -- without my permission? Go quickly, my horse needs water.
HOST
I am going.
(Exit Host.)
CANOLLES
Come on, come on, Castorin, to horse.
CASTORIN
(rocking on the chair)
But I am on horseback, sir.
CANOLLES
Look, wake up and answer, scoundrel.
CASTORIN
(stops rocking)
Oh!
CANOLLES
I am going to cut your ear off, that will wake you up.
CASTORIN
I am awake, sir. Now -- where are we?
CANOLLES
In the Inn at Jaulnay, clown, where I ordered you to precede me.
CASTORIN
Oh, it's true -- and I preceded you in such a way that my horse fell dead as he arrived in the courtyard. Poor animal! Well, I am sure he was less fatigued than I.
CANOLLES
Imbecile! Look, are you sure that the Vicomte hasn't passed this village?
CASTORIN
By God! Thanks to the short cut you made me take, I have more than an hour on him.
CANOLLES
And, according to my order, you rented the rooms of this inn?
CASTORIN
All -- you have eight. Oh -- you'll have a nice sleep tonight.
CANOLLES
And are you sure that the Vicomte didn't go to another inn than ours?
CASTORIN
Oh, as to that, I am sure of it, for there's only one in the village.
CANOLLES
The innkeeper didn't make any trouble?
CASTORIN
To rent his eight rooms? On the contrary only he doesn't understand how a master would need eight rooms -- but I paid in advance and he understood.
CANOLLES
Very well -- it looks like you wish to sleep?
CASTORIN
It looks that way, yes, sir.
CANOLLES
Well -- in these eight rooms, is there one which pleases you?
CASTORIN
They all please me -- only especially number seven, which is all gold.
CANOLLES
Take number 7.
CASTORIN
For me?
CANOLLES
For you! And I order you to sleep for 12 hours.
CASTORIN
Monsieur will be obeyed.
(Goes to leave.)
CANOLLES
Twelve hours, you understand -- without stirring no matter what noise you hear in the house.
CASTORIN
Ah, sir, you can fire a cannon -- it's all the same to me.
CANOLLES
That' fine! Send the innkeeper to me, and be gone.
(Exit Castorin.)
CANOLLES
(alone)
I has indeed thought to catch my little Vicomte on the big highway, to renew conversation with him -- to share his dinner, his supper -- but he's tricky, the little kid. He played me a trick and escaped me a second time. What's really frightful is not knowing for sure if I'm chasing a he or a she. If he is a man, such a blunder would be enough to die of. Ah, Canolles, you are made foolish by doubt as Castorin is by sleep. Anyway, in an hour, I'll resolve this doubt. While waiting, let's examine the room. An open door which gives on another room -- an alcove with two beds. Good -- let's place the quartermaster here.
(He rings.)
INNKEEPER
(entering from the rear)
You called me, sir?
CANOLLES
Yes - -what time do you usually close your door?
INNKEEPER
At eleven o'clock, sir, but as I am expecting no one, seeing that you've rented the whole place -- I will close whenever you wish.
CANOLLES
Well, quite the contrary. I would like your doors to remain open.
INNKEEPER
But sir, I'm not longer expecting anyone.
CANOLLES
That's possible -- but I am expecting someone.
INNKEEPER
Ah!
(looking through the window)
Would it be the people who have just arrived?
CANOLLES
Who are these people?
INNKEEPER
A small young man of 16 to 18 years and an old squire.
CANOLLES
That's it?
INNKEEPER
I will go tell them that you are waiting for them.
CANOLLES
Hush, on the contrary. Not a word.
INNKEEPER
Then I am going to tell them there's no room for them.
CANOLLES
You are going to lodge them.
INNKEEPER
Where's that?
CANOLLES
In this room.
INNKEEPER
Ah, I understand! You will take #7.
CANOLLES
No, since my servant has taken it.
INNKEEPER
But --
CANOLLES
My dear fellow, you've been paid, right?
INNKEEPER
Yes, sir.
CANOLLES
Well then, what's bothering you?
INNKEEPER
But if they pay me?
CANOLLES
You will be paid twice.
INNKEEPER
That's all?
CANOLLES
Yes! Only --
INNKEEPER
Ah!
CANOLLES
After the strangers enter -- shut your doors.
(voices in the wings)
Hurry! I believe the travelers are important.
INNKEEPER
I am off.
CANOLLES
Wait -- another 300 pistoles. By the way -- this room has another door giving on the corridor.
INNKEEPER
Parallel to this here, yes, sir.
(Noise outside.)
CANOLLES
Go down quickly, they are calling you.
(Innkeeper leaves.)
CANOLLES
I believe he's angry - word of a gentleman -- it's the voice of a Vicomte -- he's climbing the stairs -- he approaches -- when he walks -- it's the step of a lady.
(He leaves by the open door.)
(Enter the Vicomtess, Pompey and the Innkeeper with a light.)
THE VICOMTESS
(in the wings)
Well - are we there yet?
INNKEEPER
(entering)
This way, sir, this way.
THE VICOMTESS
This is what you have to offer me?
INNKEEPER
Oh -- the room is good -- it will be for you -- the one on the side, a little less elegant will be for your squire.
THE VICOMTESS
An open doorway? Oh! No thanks!
INNKEEPER
Damn -- it's take it or leave it, gentlemen.
THE VICOMTESS
Leave it then.
INNKEEPER
As you like it.
POMPEY
Vicomte, I will put my cloak over the opening.
THE VICOMTESS
No -- and you don't have an office, a garret, a -- ?
INNKEEPER
I have a little loft at the end of the hall.
THE VICOMTESS
Oh -- I prefer that. Excuse me, my brave Pompey -- you know I cannot stand anyone around me when I sleep.
INNKEEPER
You must decide quickly sir, because from one moment to the next someone may arrive -- the room was occupied.
THE VICOMTESS
What -- it was occupied?
INNKEEPER
Yes, by a gentleman -- but he left saying he would sleep with a friend he has in the neighborhood.
THE VICOMTESS
But if he returns?
INNKEEPER
Oh -- at eleven o'clock -- it's not likely.
THE VICOMTESS
That's fine, I will take your room.
POMPEY
Bah -- in war it's like war -- Vicomte, sir, and when one has traveled 16 league.
THE VICOMTESS
You are tired, my brave Pompey?
POMPEY
Me? Never!
(sits down)
INNKEEPER
You have need of anything?
THE VICOMTESS
Not a thing, no.
INNKEEPER
(at the door)
Of nothing?
THE VICOMTESS
No, of nothing.
(Innkeeper leaves.)
THE VICOMTESS
Pompey, my valise.
POMPEY
Here it is.
THE VICOMTESS
My necessaries! Fine, that's it. Wait.
POMPEY
What?
THE VICOMTESS
I want to visit this room.
(taking a torch)
Oh -- how dark it is.
POMPEY
Wait while I go light it up.
(entering)
Ah! Ah! It has a door.
THE VICOMTESS
A door?
POMPEY
Yes -- giving on the corridor.
THE VICOMTESS
But then, I am no longer by myself.
POMPEY
Ah -- yes -- it shuts from within.
THE VICOMTESS
Lock it with the key and put the bolts in if there are any.
POMPEY
(pushing the bolts home)
There are some.
THE VICOMTESS
And this here.
POMPEY
(entering)
At the moment, the other door is shut and there's no one in this room.
THE VICOMTESS
It's also shut -- no check the window.
(shuts the door and bolts it)
POMPEY
Do you think that behind these curtains?
(he advances, the curtain rustles, he stops)
THE VICOMTESS
Good -- shut the counterpane.
POMPEY
With a bar?
THE VICOMTESS
An iron bar?
POMPEY
Yes.
THE VICOMTESS
Fine -- now go, Pompey, go! And tomorrow at day break.
POMPEY
(turning)
Do you want me to leave you my musket?
THE VICOMTESS
But do you think I'm dying of fear, Pompey? Go and take your musket with you.
(He leaves by the right; the Vicomtess goes to shut the door behind him.)
THE VICOMTESS
Truly, the Princess will never know what it has cost me to run these roads. Oh -- what do I hear? Nothing. Probably the street door closing. Decidedly, heaven didn't destine me to become a fearless chief. Come on, everything's all right.
(putting her hat on a chair)
Where are my necessaries? I'm always afraid my hairs will fall out from my wig. Yesterday, Monsieur de Canolles watched my wig very carefully.
CANOLLES
(on the stairs)
That's fine! That's fine!
THE VICOMTESS
Huh! It's like having called on a spirit, it seemed to me that that voice -- ah! But -- they're coming upstairs -- they're in the corridor -- they're stopping at my door -- they're pulling a key on the lock -- who is that? Who is there?
CANOLLES
(from the other side of the door)
I am asking who is there.
THE VICOMTESS
What, you?
CANOLLES
Without a doubt, me. What the devil! I have the right to ask who is in my room.
THE VICOMTESS
In your room? Oh, my God! It's doubtless the gentleman who ought not to return and who has returned. Sir, what do you want?
CANOLLES
It's very simple, I retained a room I wish to occupy it. Didn't the innkeeper tell you that this room was occupied by a gentleman who went to dine with one of his friends?
THE VICOMTESS
Yes, sir, it's true, but he said that in all probability, the gentleman would not return.
CANOLLES
The innkeeper was mistaken and the gentleman has returned.
(after a pause)
Well?
THE VICOMTESS
What, sir?
CANOLLES
I am waiting for you to have the goodness to open the door for me -- unless you prefer me to smash it in?
THE VICOMTESS
Not at all, sir -- I am opening -- I am opening.
CANOLLES
(entering)
Truly -- nice manners.
THE VICOMTESS
Monsieur de Canolles.
CANOLLES
The Vicomte -- ah -- so that's how you take my lodging? Good evening, Vicomte -- how are you?
THE VICOMTESS
Baron -- I am in despair.
(arranging her necessaries)
CANOLLES
God pardon me, he's already installed. Well -- what are you doing there?
THE VICOMTESS
I am putting my things away -- and I am going to call the Innkeeper.
CANOLLES
To do what?
THE VICOMTESS
But I don't wish you to sleep outside and since I came very late, I give up the place.
CANOLLES
But where will you go? There's no other Inn in Jaulnay.
THE VICOMTESS
I will go -- I don't know where but I will go there.
CANOLLES
No, no, you are at home here -- stay here -- you are delicate, you are falling down from fatigue -- go to bed peacefully and sleep -- I will go find fortune elsewhere -- the devil's in it if I cannot find some corner in this house!
THE VICOMTESS
Ah -- sir, you are very obliging. Yes, I am delicate, yes I am tired, I will stay.
CANOLLES
And you are doing right.
THE VICOMTESS
Thanks! Thanks!
CANOLLES
Good night, Vicomte.
THE VICOMTESS
Good night.
CANOLLES
(returning)
Ah, but what have you there? A room -- an empty room -- that'll do for me.
THE VICOMTESS
Oh, no, no, Pompey is sleeping there -- he's asleep.
CANOLLES
Well -- but he'll wake up and get up.
THE VICOMTESS
Oh! pardon, you will find me very uncivil but Pompey is old, Pompey is not a servant -- he's a friend.
CANOLLES
Well, sleep peacefully, Pompey -- I know where to find a bed.
THE VICOMTESS
Oh -- so much the better.
CANOLLES
Sleep soundly.
THE VICOMTESS
I'll answer for that.
CANOLLES
A handshake, Vicomte?
THE VICOMTESS
Very willingly.
(Canolles exits.)
THE VICOMTESS
Oh, but this young man is my evil genius, he makes me tremble, he makes me die. Poor boy -- on the contrary -- he is charming, clever, easy to get on with. Still, this room, the excuse was impertinent enough -- come on, I'll hear no more of it -- he's found fortune elsewhere as he said. Again the danger passes.
(opening her vest)
Why should I be afraid? The Inn is very quiet, it seems to me, everyone is asleep. In a quarter of an hour, He will sleep like the others. I admit that I wouldn't be angry to do so as well.
(a rap on the door)
Ah! My God! What is this?
CANOLLES
(outside)
Vicomte! Vicomte!
THE VICOMTESS
Again -- Baron -- what's wrong?
CANOLLES
Open up, open up -- it's very serious.
THE VICOMTESS
(opening)
Speak quickly -- come on!
CANOLLES
Ah! You are still nearly dressed -- so much the better.
THE VICOMTESS
What does this agitation mean?
CANOLLES
Sit down.
(giving her a chair)
THE VICOMTESS
No, no -- it's not necessary.
CANOLLES
Oh -- it is - it's worth the trouble.
THE VICOMTESS
Truly!
(She sits.)
CANOLLES
I must tell you that the room where I had my heart set on -- room #7 is occupied by two Swiss officers.
THE VICOMTESS
Ah.
CANOLLES
Yes -- I asked them for their hospitality. I didn't wish to disturb you -- you seem to me to be greatly in need of sleep.
THE VICOMTESS
It's true, I am very tired.
CANOLLES
Do you know what they responded, Vicomte? I was truly exasperated even more. No, it's an injury which cannot remain unpunished!
(rising)
Vicomte, do me the pleasure of taking your sword.
THE VICOMTESS
My sword! And to do what?
CANOLLES
Eh! By God! To come with me to rouse these clowns and invite them to go down to the garden. It's devilishly dark, but there's a lantern in the courtyard -- let's go, let's go, Vicomte, come on.
THE VICOMTESS
But.
CANOLLES
(passing him his sword)
You clearly understand that if these scoundrels learn there were two French gentlemen here and that they left without beating them up, the French nation has been dishonored.
THE VICOMTESS
Doubtless, but --
CANOLLES
You are looking for your sword -- here it is.
THE VICOMTESS
No, I would like to make you understand.
CANOLLES
What?
THE VICOMTESS
So you are not offended, Baron?
CANOLLES
How's that?
THE VICOMTESS
These fellows were sleeping, and when one is in one's first sleep, sometimes you are in a -- different mood -- then they are Swiss, you said?
CANOLLES
Doubtless.
THE VICOMTESS
Well, perhaps they didn't understand our language.
CANOLLES
If I repeated to you what they said to me, you would see they understood French perfectly.
THE VICOMTESS
Look, Baron, put yourself in their place, people in bed, asleep -- it seems to me they are very exercisable.
CANOLLES
The fact is, you are French, you are my compatriot, you put me out the door just now -- but you didn't say to me what they said.
THE VICOMTESS
Pardon, Baron.
CANOLLES
You think I am not offended?
THE VICOMTESS
Oh -- not in the least.
CANOLLES
In a way that in my place you wouldn't feel your honor demanded reparation.
THE VICOMTESS
No, no, I swear to you.
CANOLLES
You are full of sense, word of honor! Ah! You are not a young man!
THE VICOMTESS
I am not a young man?
CANOLLES
Because you are a Nestor (wise man). Well, I forebear.
THE VICOMTESS
Ah!
(relaxing and sitting down)
CANOLLES
How come, two French gentlemen will be left baffled by these two rouges? No, no, wait by God -- I must chase these two rogues out of their room -- it's necessary.
THE VICOMTESS
(rising)
Come, has that got you again?
CANOLLES
Doubtless, if I don't chase them out, where shall I sleep, do you suppose? If you don't come, I will go alone -- I will kill at least one. I will have his bed.
THE VICOMTESS
But if one of them kills you -- ?
CANOLLES
Well, then, I've found my bed forever.
THE VICOMTESS
Oh, no, no -- I don't want -- I beg you Baron, for my sake, I would never be consoled.
CANOLLES
Damn -- what do you want me to do?
THE VICOMTESS
(pointing to the side room)
There's plenty of room in this chamber.
CANOLLES
Pompey's room?
THE VICOMTESS
Yes.
CANOLLES
Pompey -- who is sleeping? No, don't disturb Pompey -- a brave old fellow; your friend? No, I prefer to disturb my Swiss.
THE VICOMTESS
Pompey is no longer there.
CANOLLES
He is not there? Where is he then?
THE VICOMTESS
Just now, I sent him to sleep at the end of the corridor.
CANOLLES
Poor Pompey -- and why's that?
THE VICOMTESS
Well, he snored too much.
CANOLLES
Oh -- I sleep like a bird.
THE VICOMTESS
Oh -- I -- I sleep like a bird.
THE VICOMTESS
Well, take this room -- take it!
CANOLLES
Oh -- thanks, Vicomte!
THE VICOMTESS
Yes, yes.
CANOLLES
This is a deed I won't forget.
THE VICOMTESS
Take it and go to sleep quickly.
CANOLLES
Oh! I ask nothing better. I am falling asleep.
THE VICOMTESS
Good night, then!
CANOLLES
Good night dear friend.
(returning)
I don't know why I've got the idea that you've just given me advice which has saved my life.
THE VICOMTESS
Oh!
CANOLLES
Perhaps these Swiss would have killed me.
THE VICOMTESS
Oh, that's very likely.
CANOLLES
On my word! I have to embrace you!
THE VICOMTESS
Oh! Quite unnecessary.
(she pushes him into room)
CANOLLES
Would you like me to lend you Castorin to unlace your boots?
THE VICOMTESS
No, no, thanks!
(Shutting the door behind him.)
CANOLLES
(from the room)
Ah, but it's an oven compared to your room, give me a light at least.
THE VICOMTESS
(putting out the light)
Oh -- too bad! I put it out and have no more myself.
(she stands on a chair and puts her cloak over the opening)
THE VICOMTESS
Oh! I would give the 20,000 pounds I am bringing to Madame de Conde for it to be tomorrow -- today.
(noise from Canolles)
Ah, my God, he's going to break his legs on the furniture! -- Good! No more sound -- he's found his bed. Oh, tomorrow I will leave without any fuss. Instead of following the main road, I will take a short cut. Ah, yes, for goodness sake! Wretched wig! It grips my head like a vise.
Ah, I can breathe.
(she shakes her head, her hair falls loose. horrible noise)
What happening, my God?
CANOLLES
Oh! Vicomte! Oh! Vicomte.
THE VICOMTESS
What?
CANOLLES
Something new!
THE VICOMTESS
What's wrong?
CANOLLES
Open up so I can tell you.
THE VICOMTESS
Open for him? Yes!
(a window pane breaks)
Oh, my God!
CANOLLES
God! While you were searching for the key, I broke a pane of glass.
(putting his hand through the opening and opening the door)
THE VICOMTESS
(hiding)
Sir! Sir!
CANOLLES
Can you imagine, Vicomte, that in drawing the curtains --
(going to the bed, the Vicomtess is near the window)
What the devil -- down came the top of the bed. Huh, what luck I wasn't in it. Right? Right?
THE VICOMTESS
Yes, yes -- it is very fortunate!
(she escapes and hides behind the window curtains)
CANOLLES
Are we playing blind man's bluff?
(he knocks against a chair)
Well, break your neck then -- I was covered with dust. I was swimming in it. Why the devil did you extinguish your light? Where are you? Let's see. Like the Orpheus of Virgil I only embrace the air.
THE VICOMTESS
My clothes, great God! My Clothes! Well -- what are you doing over there.
CANOLLES
(sitting)
I am looking for a bed.
THE VICOMTESS
What bed?
CANOLLES
One of yours; you aren't going to sleep in two beds, I hope. Isn't there some way to get some light?
THE VICOMTESS
Yes, I am looking, I am looking.
CANOLLES
What are you looking for?
THE VICOMTESS
The handbell to summon Pompey.
(Canolles, grasping the handbell which he found by fumbling on the table.)
CANOLLES
The handbell is there -- what do you want Pompey for? What's he to do?
THE VICOMTESS
I want -- I want him to make a bed in our room.
CANOLLES
For whom?
THE VICOMTESS
For him.
(She goes to the alcove.)
CANOLLES
For whom? What are you saying, Vicomte? Lackey in our room? Come on, you have the ways of a frightened girl. Fie! We are big enough boys to protect ourselves -- no -- just give me a hand and guide me towards my bed, which I cannot find -- or better relight the candle.
THE VICOMTESS
No! No! No!
CANOLLES
Ah, I think I am there.
THE VICOMTESS
Yes, yes -- you are there.
CANOLLES
Which of the two is mine?
THE VICOMTESS
The one you prefer.
(She runs into the alcove to get her vest back.
CANOLLES
What are you doing?
THE VICOMTESS
No, I am not going to bed -- I will spend the night in a chair.
CANOLLES
(returning)
Ah, for goodness sake -- what I never put up with is childishness -- come, Vicomte, come.
(He opens the window shutter. Light spreads through the room. Canolles advances, arms extended, toward the Vicomtess.)
THE VICOMTESS
Baron, don't come any closer, I beg you -- not a step if you are a gentleman.
(on her knees)
Mercy! Mercy!
CANOLLES
You -- at my feet! Oh!
(He extends his arms.)
THE VICOMTESS
On your Mother's honor!
CAUVIGNAC
(in the street)
Monsieur de Canolles! Monsieur de Canolles!
THE VICOMTESS
I am saved!
CANOLLES
My name?
THE VICOMTESS
They are calling you, sir.
CANOLLES
By God! I hear it indeed.
CAUVIGNAC
Monsieur de Canolles! Monsieur de Canolles!
CASTORIN
(at the door)
CANOLLES
(opening the window)
Bawler!
CAUVIGNAC
Government carrier.
CANOLLES
On whose behalf?
CAUVIGNAC
From the Duke d'Epernon -- Open!
CASTORIN
From the Duke d'Epernon -- Open!
THE VICOMTESS
From the Duke d'Epernon -- Open!
(Canolles opens. They bring in some lights.)
CANOLLES
On behalf of the Duke d'Epernon? And what's he want of me -- the Brute?
(takes him by the ear and pushes him across the room)
CAUVIGNAC
(entering)
Service of the King.
CANOLLES
Oh! Damn! There is a shame.
CAUVIGNAC
Plague! How you do travel, Baron! I thought I'd never overtake you -- and now I've killed two horses.
CANOLLES
Your name, sir?
CAUVIGNAC
Oh -- when I tell you name, it will not mean much to you -- what matters to you is to know where I am coming from, and this letter will tell you that.
CANOLLES
(reading)
"My dear Baron, as you see, the dispatch attached is for Her Majesty, the Queen -- on your life, bear it. This very moment -- it deals with the well being of the kingdom -- Nanon." Ah! It seems she got out her scrape by passing me for her brother -- The letter for Her Majesty, sir?
CAUVIGNAC
Here it is. Milord, the Duke d'Epernon instructed me to tell you that Her Majesty is at Nantes.
CANOLLES
That's fine.
CAUVIGNAC
You've seen that the dispatch is urgent?
CANOLLES
I will leave in a moment, sir.
CAUVIGNAC
Now, please sign a receipt for me, the letter being important.
CANOLLES
(signing)
Here!
CAUVIGNAC
Baron, this signature will bring me 2 hundred pistoles -- I wish that you will receive as much. You have nothing particular to say to Mademoiselle de Lartigues?
CANOLLES
Tell her that her brother appreciates the feeling which made her act, and is very obliged to her.
CAUVIGNAC
(bowing to Canolles and then the Vicomtess)
It appears I arrived just in time.
(He leaves.)
CANOLLES
Castorin, saddle the horses.
CASTORIN
(leaving)
Ah, if I had known, I would have remained in #7!
(Castorin exits.)
CANOLLES
(to the Countess who has put on her vest and wig)
Be content, Madame, you are going to be rid of me, I am leaving.
THE VICOMTESS
And when will that be?
CANOLLES
This very instant.
THE VICOMTESS
Goodbye, Sir!
CANOLLES
So -- we are separated -- perhaps forever!
THE VICOMTESS
Who knows?
CANOLLES
Promise one thing to a man who will eternally keep your memory.
THE VICOMTESS
What?
CANOLLES
That you will think of him sometimes.
THE VICOMTESS
I promise you!
CANOLLES
Without anger.
THE VICOMTESS
Yes.
CANOLLES
A proof -- your hand.
(she gives him her hand which he carries to his lips)
Goodbye, Madame, goodbye -- ! Oh! Remember that you have promised not to forget me.
THE VICOMTESS
Alas!
(curtain)
Chateau Chantilly -- the bedchamber of Madame de Conde.
DOWAGER
We failed, my daughter, we failed and we were humiliated.
MME DE TOURVILLE
You must pay a bit for a great deal of glory -- there's no victory without combat.
PRINCESS
And if we fail, and if we are defeated -- we will take vengeance.
DOWAGER
And on whom? On God? For God alone will have conquered the Prince. It's not an easy thing, especially by force, to open the door of the prisons of Vincennes.
MME DE TOURVILLE
Monsieur de Tourville, my husband, in his capacity as Master of Camp of the King's armies, had made while living and from the time that the Grand Prior was imprisoned, a plan to take Vincennes -- he spoke often of it to me -- I remembered it and I can communicate it to you.
DOWAGER
Thanks, my dear Madame de Tourville, but having on our side Monsieur de Turenne, Monsieur de Bouillon and Monsieur de la Rochefoucauld, I hope that between the three, they will find some way to extract my poor son from captivity.
PRINCESS
Oh -- Monsieur de la Rochefoucauld, Monsieur Bouillon, and Monsieur de Turenne forget us. Claire herself has not arrived.
DOWAGER
My child, some obstacle must have stopped Madame de Cambes, for you know her devotion to our house is unalterable.
PRINCESS
While waiting, she hasn't arrived.
DOWAGER
Madame de Cambes must have been obliged to make some detours. The roads from Bordeaux, which they suspect us of wishing to retire to, are guarded by the army of Monsieur Saint-Aignan, and as Madame de Cambes is coming from Bordeaux --
MME DE TOURVILLE
At least she could write.
DOWAGER
Ah, dear Tourville, for a strategist of your ability! To write, to confide to paper the adhesion of a city like Bordeaux to the party of the princes would be very imprudent, you must agree.
MME DE TOURVILLE
One of three places I had the honor to place before Your Highness had as its sure object the raising of Guyanne, and if it had been adopted --
PRINCESS
Fine! Fine! Dear Tourville, we will return to it if necessary -- but while waiting, I am siding with my mother's opinion and begin to believe that Claire must have suffered some disgrace -- otherwise, she should already be here. Perhaps her tenants failed in their word to her.
MME DE TOURVILLE
And all that, when one thinks that, if Monsieur Lenet, Monsieur Pierre Lenet, this opinionated councillor that you obstinately protect and is good only to oppose all our projects, when one thinks, I say, if Monsieur Lenet had not rejected my second plan -- we would now have Bordeaux under seize and that Bordeaux would have capitulated -- !
LENET
(entering from the rear)
I prefer, saving the opinions of Their Highnesses, that Bordeaux join us willingly. A city which capitulates gives in to force and undertakes nothing. A city which willingly joins us thereby compromises itself and is forced to follow to the very end the fortunes of those it has willingly joined.
PRINCESS
Oh -- it's useless to talk my dear Lenet, everything is going from bad to worse and I much prefer a good courier to all these maxims.
LENET
Your Highness will be very satisfied for she will receive three today.
THE THREE WOMEN
What three?
LENET
Yes, Madame, the first was seen on the road from Bordeaux. The second comes from Stanay and the third is coming from La Rochefoucauld.
DOWAGER and PRINCESS
Oh!
MME DE TOURVILLE
It seems to me, my dear Monsieur Lenet, that a clever magician like you ought not to stay in such a vain condition and after having announced to us the coming of the couriers, he must also tell us the content of the dispatches.
LENET
My science doesn't go as far as you think. Madame -- I am born to be a faithful servant. I announce, I do not foretell.
AN USHER
(entering)
A cavalier coming in all haste from Bordeaux claims the honor of being introduced to Her Highness.
LENET
First courier, Madame.
PRINCESS
You are a sorcerer, my dear Lenet, let him enter.
(Exit usher who returns with the Vicomtess.)
THE VICOMTESS
Madame!
PRINCESS
Claire! My dear Claire! In disguise.
THE VICOMTESS
Yes, Madame, and who begs you to accept her respectful homage. But my God, they told me that Your Highness fell from a horse and broke her leg.
PRINCESS
Hush! They say that, but reassure yourself, dear Vicomtess, it is nothing. It is only for our enemies that I broke my leg. Mazarin must believe me unable to move so he won't suspect I intend to flee.
THE VICOMTESS
Ah! Your Highness reassures me --
(starts to kneel)
Your Highness will permit them --
PRINCESS
In my arms, dear Vicomtess, in my arms --
(embracing her)
And now, speak, speak quickly.
DOWAGER
Oh, yes, speak quickly, dear Vicomtess -- have you seen Richon?
THE VICOMTESS
Yes, he charged me with a mission for Her Highness.
PRINCESS
Good or bad?
THE VICOMTESS
I don't know -- it's only two words.
PRINCESS
Which are -- I am dying of impatience.
THE VICOMTESS
"Bordeaux -- yes!"
PRINCESS
Oh, bravo! Dear Claire, what luck -- what a triumph! Come, Lenet, do you know what news this dear Vicomtess brings us?
LENET
Bordeaux, yes. Right?
PRINCESS
And you are right, Pierre, my good Pierre, always right. Still we give this to this brave Richon. What shall we do for him?
DOWAGER
We must give him some important position -- did he tell you what he wanted?
THE VICOMTESS
Yes, he wanted you to obtain for him the command of a stronghold like Varyres or Fort St. Georges.
PRINCESS
Alas, we are very bad in the court to recommend someone --
THE VICOMTESS
We _____ a blank order which we can use as a commission for Richon.
LENET
It's done, Madame.
PRINCESS
What do you mean it's done?
LENET
A letter has been sent by me to Mademoiselle de Lartigues -- they say that this woman sells everything to any buyer -- and as she controls the signature of Monsieur d'Epernon.
DOWAGER
Truly, my dear Lenet, you are a miraculous man! Only suppose Mademoiselle de Lartigues places a rather high price on a blank order from the Duke -- I don't see how can we do much in our situation.
LENET
(to Vicomtess)
Here's the moment, Madame, to prove to Their Highnesses that we have thought of everything.
PRINCESS
What do you mean to say, Lenet?
THE VICOMTESS
That I am very happy to offer you a poor sum of 20,000 pounds, as miserable as it is, I have been able to obtain from my tenants.
PRINCESS
20,000 pounds?
DOWAGER
But that's a fortune in these times. And this course, dear Vicomtess?
THE VICOMTESS
Is in your room, Madame, if Pompey has followed the orders I gave him.
PRINCESS
What is that noise?
LENET
Probably our second courier.
PRINCESS
And where is this one coming from?
LENET
Probably from Monsieur de la Rochefoucauld, whose father just died at Verticuil.
AN USHER
(entering)
An envoy of Madame de la Rochefoucauld solicits the honor of presenting homage to Their Highnesses.
PRINCESS
Have him come in.
THE VICOMTESS
Do you permit me to abandon this costume?
PRINCESS
Go -- and return quickly.
(The Vicomtess exits.)
USHER
(announcing)
Monsieur de Tourville.
(La Rochefoucauld enters.)
PRINCESS
You come on behalf of Monsieur de la Rochefoucauld, sir? What news do you bring? But it's Monsieur de la Rochefoucauld himself.
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
Yes, Madame, I have used the pretext of my father's funeral to occupy the route to Orleans with 300 gentlemen, and to put myself at Your Highness' orders.
DOWAGER
But aren't you afraid that so large a force will awaken suspicions.
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
Your Highness, these gentlemen are supposed to attend the internment of the Duke de la Rochefoucauld.
PRINCESS
But Duke don't we have an escort to join you?
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
I will leave everyone at Her Highness' disposition.
PRINCESS
Thanks, Duke.
USHER
A gentleman arriving from Guyenne asks to speak to M. Lenet instantly. It's an affair of the greatest importance.
LENET
I am going.
PRINCESS
Not at all -- receive him here. It is perhaps essential that the Duke know what you are to say to this gentleman from Guyenne. Come, Duke; and you, Lenet --
LENET
Rest assured, Madame, I understood.
(La Rochefoucauld goes off with the ladies. The Princess soon returns listening to Lenet and Cauvignac.)
CAUVIGNAC
(entering)
Ah, Monsieur Lenet. Your very humble servant, M. Lenet.
LENET
You asked to speak to me, sir?
CAUVIGNAC
Yes, sir.
LENET
Sir, I am waiting for you to have the kindness to tell me on whose behalf you come.
CAUVIGNAC
I come on your behalf, sir.
(He gives him a letter.)
LENET
My letter to Mademoiselle de Lartigues.
CAUVIGNAC
Is this letter really from you, sir?
LENET
Exactly, but this letter had an object.
CAUVIGNAC
Yes -- so you could obtain a blank commission from the Duke d'Epernon. Here is the blank commission.
PRINCESS
Oh, three times, thanks, sir. Thanks for my husband. Thanks for my son. Thanks for me.
CAUVIGNAC
This lady is?
LENET
The Princess, sir.
CAUVIGNAC
Your Highness.
LENET
Sir, such a document is too precious for you to abandon it to us without conditions. Only this blank order is really yours, right?
CAUVIGNAC
It belongs to the possessor as you can see -- it has no other name than that of Monsieur d'Epernon.
LENET
Did you have an understanding with Monsieur d'Epernon to limit?
CAUVIGNAC
There is no other engagement with the Duke.
LENET
Now, sir, my letter to Mademoiselle de Lartigues said we could make conditions with the bearer of the blank orders.
CAUVIGNAC
Well, here I am, sir, let's deal!
LENET
What do you wish?
CAUVIGNAC
Two things.
LENET
Which are?
CAUVIGNAC
Money, first of all.
LENET
We don't have much.
CAUVIGNAC
I will be reasonable.
LENET
And the second?
CAUVIGNAC
A post in the Prince's army.
LENET
But the Princes don't have any army.
CAUVIGNAC
They are going to have one.
LENET
A post in the army will put you in contact with inferiors and superiors -- you couldn't understand. What do you say to a 1000 pounds added to the sum we give you and a commission to raise a company.
CAUVIGNAC
I was going to propose that arrangement to you.
LENET
There remains the money.
CAUVIGNAC
Yes, there remains the money.
LENET
What sum do you wish?
CAUVIGNAC
Fifteen thousand pounds -- I told you I would be reasonable.
LENET
Fifteen thousand pounds?
CAUVIGNAC
Or ten thousand and a rank, the five thousand pounds being destined to arm and equip my company.
LENET
We prefer 15,000 pounds and a commission.
CAUVIGNAC
So you agree?
LENET
The deal is done -- come sir, I am going to seal your commission and count you your money.
PRINCESS
Lenet.
CAUVIGNAC
(bowing)
Madame Princess.
LENET
You will excuse me?
CAUVIGNAC
Certainly, Monsieur Lenet -- go right ahead!
LENET
Wait for me in this room. I will rejoin you.
PRINCESS
Lenet, what are you going to do with this blank order?
LENET
Don't you understand, Madame? I will address the order to the governor of the Fort of Vayres, I will send it to Richon -- he introduces the 300 gentlemen he's raised, and once inside, well he shuts the doors -- as for the rest -- it's up to him.
PRINCESS
Fine! And us?
(to the Dowager who returns with Mme. de Tourville)
Come, Madame, come -- it's about our approaching departure.
LENET
In precisely ten hours, we will leave the chateau by the little gate in the park. An hour after our departure we will leave our escort who will join us on the way; tomorrow we will join up with the 300 gentlemen of Monsieur de la Rochefoucauld, our forces will be enlarged by all the discontented, and we will arrive at Bordeaux with an army.
DOWAGER
But if they disturb us on the way, Lenet, what will we do? The troops of Monsieur de Saint Argnon are on the road and it's impossible not to encounter some of them --
MME DE TOURVILLE
That's a matter of strategy, and I charge myself with directing our march in such a way that --
PRINCESS
And besides, if we must fight, we fight. The spirit of Monsieur de Conde will march with us and we will conquer.
LENET
In the name of heaven, Madame, listen to an old servant -- leave Chantilly as persecuted women not as men, men in revolt! Our plan is made, don't let it fail. We are sure of a fine escort, with which we will avoid the insults of the road for today, 20 different parties hold the country side and prey indifferently on friend or foe. Ten o'clock strikes. Consent, all is ready.
THE VICOMTESS
(entering excitedly)
Princess! Princess!
PRINCESS
What's the matter, my God. How pale you are!
THE VICOMTESS
What's wrong, Madame, is that a gentleman has just arrived from Chantilly and asks to speak to you on behalf of the Queen.
PRINCESS
Great God! We are lost!
LENET
Not at all. On the contrary, we are saved.
PRINCESS
But this messenger from the Queen is only an observer, a spy perhaps?
LENET
Your Highness is right.
PRINCESS
Then his mission is to keep us in sight?
LENET
What difference if it is not you that he watches?
PRINCESS
I do not understand.
LENET
(to Vicomtess, pointing to the bed)
Do you understand, Madame?
THE VICOMTESS
Oh! Yes! Oh, Madame, I am going to be able to render you a real service.
PRINCESS
What? Dear Vicomtess, you consent?
THE VICOMTESS
Leave, Madame! Leave without delay, leave without noise, the accident whose reality is believed will give me a pretext for receiving the gentleman in bed -- we will only let a single light burn -- so long as he doesn't have the honor of knowing Your Highness personally -- time will be gained for your flight.
PRINCESS
And you will rejoin us?
THE VICOMTESS
As soon as I am free.
LENET
(to Usher)
The princess will receive this gentleman as soon as he presents himself.
USHER
He is down below, at the door of the gallery.
LENET
(to Usher)
Go, fetch him.
PRINCESS
But don't forget the Duke d'Epernon's blank order -- it's precious!
LENET
I'll attend to that! If Madame the Vicomtess gives us only half an hour, that's all we need.
THE VICOMTESS
Rest assured -- go! go!
(As the Princess escapes, Madame de Cambes lies in the bed, Lenet blows out the candles with one exception. Lenet leaves. The usher enters with Canolles.)
USHER
Who shall I announce to Her Highness, sir?
CANOLLES
Announce the Baron de Canolles on behalf of Her Majesty, the Queen Regent.
USHER
The Baron de Canolles.
THE VICOMTESS
The Baron de Canolles. Oh, my God!
(She draws the curtains. The usher exits.)
CANOLLES
(approaching)
Madame, I have the honor to demand on behalf of Her Majesty the Queen Regent, an audience with Your Highness. Your Highness deigns to accord me one. Will Your Highness, now complete her bounties, by a word, by a sign, that she has indeed noticed my presence and is ready to listen to me?
THE VICOMTESS
Speak sir, and I am listening.
CANOLLES
Her Majesty the Queen sends me to you, Madame, to assure Your Highness of her desire that you continue to have good friendly relations with her.
THE VICOMTESS
Sir, don't speak any more of the good friendship which reigns between Her Majesty and the House of Conde. There are proofs to the contrary in the cells of the dungeon of Vincennes. But, what exactly do you wish, sir?
CANOLLES
I wish nothing Madame, it's the Queen who wishes and not I. I would be in despair that Your Highness judges me, by the mission I am fulfilling. Day before yesterday, I arrived at months bearing a message to the Queen -- the post swept recommended the messenger to Her Highness, the Queen ordered me to remain near her and yesterday called me to send me here. I was forced to obey, Madame, but while accepting as was my duty, this mission Her Majesty charged me with, I will dare to say I did not solicit it, and I would have refused it if royalty could be refused.
THE VICOMTESS
But still, what does the Queen want?
CANOLLES
She intends that I live in this Chateau and that, unworthy as I am of this honor, that I remain here as companion to Your Highness.
THE VICOMTESS
Meaning, be frank, sir, meaning that the Queen wants to spy on us, right.
CANOLLES
If the Queen wants to spy on Your Highness, I am then a spy? I thank Your Highness for her frankness.
THE VICOMTESS
Sir!
CANOLLES
Not at all. I accept the word -- treat me Madame as you would treat such wretches. Forget that I am only an atom obeying the breath of a queen, have your lackey chase me out, have your gentlemen kill me, just put me face to face with people to whom I can reply with stick or sword, but do not so cruelly insult a gentleman who is fulfilling his duty as subject and soldier. You, Madame, who are so highly placed by birth, desert and misfortune.
THE VICOMTESS
Oh -- excuse me, sir, pardon me -- may it please God that I have no intention to insult as brave an officer as you! No, Monsieur de Canolles, I do not suspect your loyalty. I withdraw my words, they are wounding, I agree. No, no, you are a noble heart, Baron -- I do you full and complete justice.
CANOLLES
(aside)
Oh -- but I am not mistaken. That voice -- I've already heard -- that voice is not the voice of Madame de Conde -- that voice.
(He goes to the candle.)
THE VICOMTESS
What are you doing?
CANOLLES
Pardon, Madame. I beg Your Highness not to forget, especially in this circumstance, that I am only the passive instrument of an illustrious will. Madame, I am charged by the King to protect Your Highness -- I ought, therefore to be sure that it is indeed Madame de Conde I am protecting. I must confirm your identity. I must claim the honor of seeing your face.
THE VICOMTESS
Oh, but this is an insupportable inquisition, sir! If the King gave you the orders, it's because the King is only a child and doesn't yet know the duty of a gentleman. To force a woman to show her face is the same insult as tearing off a man's mask.
CANOLLES
Madame, I am happily unaware how they persecute a woman and even a stronger reason, how one offends a Princess. There's a word before which men bow when the word comes from Kings, and Kings when the word comes from destiny -- Madame -- it must be.
THE VICOMTESS
Sir, you forget that I have 25 gentlemen and numerous and armed servants -- and that if you push me to the last extreme --
CANOLLES
(going to the window)
Madame, you don't realize that within five hundred paces, hidden in the woods which surround Chantilly, I have 200 cavaliers who I can bring together in a few seconds and that a signal from me will suffice --
THE VICOMTESS
Oh, then, sir, this is not an inquisition, it's an act of violence and this obstinate pursuit.
CANOLLES
Madame, it's Her Highness, Madame de Conde whom I pressure and not you -- you are not Madame de Conde.
THE VICOMTESS
What do you mean?
CANOLLES
I mean that it no longer rests with me to return to Paris to admit to the Queen that so as not to displease a woman that I loved -- I name no one, Madame, so don't let rage into your eyes -- I have violated her orders, I have permitted the flight of her enemy, during the time I just consecrated to you -- she rushes at this time on a good horse between Monsieur de la Rochefoucauld, her champion and Monsieur Lenet, her councillor, with his gentlemen and his captains, with all his household even, on the route to Bordeaux and has nothing to do with what is passing at the moment between the Baron de Canolles and the Vicomte or Vicomtess de Cambes! But I can change this scene of mystification into a scene of mourning, as I told you Madame, I have only to open the window -- whistle three times with this golden whistle, and in five minutes two 200 cavaliers will have joined and arrested Madame La Princess, garotted her officers who at this time flee and laugh at me, unaware the fools that I have them in my hands.
THE VICOMTESS
Sir, by all things holy, by all sacred principles, sir, don't do that! Don't do that for the honor of the King for the honor of the Queen, for your honor! Don't do it for your honor! Don't do it from grace towards me who beg you, for me who you honor, for me who you esteem, for me who loves you.
CANOLLES
(dropping the whistle)
Oh! I am lost.
CANOLLES
I say that from the moment I recognized you, I say that from the moment when recognizing you, I let Madame de Conde flee -- I say that I am a traitor!
THE VICOMTESS
But what's to be done then?
CANOLLES
Repeat to me that you love me! To each pang of remorse, repeat that magic word that you just said and I will forget everything! Everything! yes, for you render me mad with joy.
THE VICOMTESS
(in his arms)
Well, yes, yes, I love you!
CANOLLES
Oh, Monsieur de Mazarin is rich enough to lose all he posesses, but I am not rich enough to lose the only treasure I possess.
CAUVIGNAC
(entering)
Baron Canolles, in the name of the King, I arrest you.
CANOLLES
Sir!
CAUVIGNAC
Your word!
CANOLLES
The order?
CAUVIGNAC
Here it is!
CANOLLES
You see, Madame, the illusion didn't last long! With the day, the great hunter of phantoms, all my dreams have disappeared. Here is my sword, sir. But I know you it seems to me.
CAUVIGNAC
By God -- so you recognize me! It is I who at Jaulnay brought you the order on the Port of the Duke d'Epernon -- commission to leave for the court and I've just received this order for your arrest. Ah, sir, your fortune was in this commission -- you failed in it -- so much the worse for you. Come sir, we are leaving.
CANOLLES
Can I ask you, sir, where you are ordered to take me, and if you are forbidden to give me this satisfaction to know where I am going.
CAUVIGNAC
No, sir, I can tell you. We are escorting you to the fortress island of St. Georges.
THE VICOMTESS
To the Isle Saint Georges?
CANOLLES
Goodbye, Madame, goodbye.
THE VICOMTESS
And I, where are they taking me? For if the Baron is guilty, I am indeed more guilty.
CAUVIGNAC
You, Madame! You can withdraw -- you are free.
THE VICOMTESS
Free? Then I can watch over him.
(She leaves by one door -- Canolles by the other.)
CAUVIGNAC
Lieutenant Barrabas -- you will conduct the prisoner to Fort St. Georges. You will answer for him with your head!
BARRABAS
Then we're on the King's side?
CAUVIGNAC
By God!
(curtain)
The interior of the Fort of Saint Georges. In the rear a gallery. To the right, the apartment of the Governor.
BARRABAS
Well, sir, the route was long, but now we have arrived.
CANOLLES
It appears they treat me as a man of some importance.
BARRABAS
Yes, my word, the old garrison is on alert.
CANOLLES
Do you believe I'll remain a prisoner for a long period, sir?
BARRABAS
I don't know, Baron, but from the manner in which you were recommended to me, I should say "yes".
CANOLLES
Do you think they'll question me?
BARRABAS
That's the usual procedure.
CANOLLES
And if I don't answer?
BARRABAS
The Devil -- in that case, you know --
CANOLLES
No, I don't know.
BARRABAS
Damn -- then there's -- then there's the question.
CANOLLES
Ah! Ah! Ordinary?
BARRABAS
Ordinary and extraordinary. It depends on of what you are accused, sir?
CANOLLES
I am very afraid of being accused of a crime against the state.
BARRABAS
In that case, you will revel the extraordinary question: ten pots.
CANOLLES
What do you mean ten pots?
BARRABAS
Yes, you will have ten kettles.
CANOLLES
In water in style in the Isle of St. George?
BARRABAS
You understand sir, on the river Garonne --
CANOLLES
Precisely -- one has it at hand. And how many gallons are 10 kettles?
BARRABAS
Three gallons, three gallons and a half.
CANOLLES
Oh! Oh! I'll never be able to contend with all that.
BARRABAS
But, if you take care to get in with the jailor.
CANOLLES
With the jailor?
BARRABAS
Yes, you will have a good end.
CANOLLES
What, if you please, can the jailor do for me?
BARRABAS
He can make you drink some oil.
CANOLLES
Oil is a remedy?
BARRABAS
Sovereign, sir.
CANOLLES
You think so?
BARRABAS
I speak from experience; I've drunk.
CANOLLES
What -- you have drunk?
BARRABAS
I meant to say I've seen drunk.
CANOLLES
Fine!
BARRABAS
Yes, sir, I've seen a smaller man than you drink 10 kettles with extreme ease, thanks to the oil which prepared the way. It's true that he swelled up, as is customary, but with a good fire, they reduced the swelling without too much damage. That's the essential of the second part of the operation -- remember these words well -- warm without boiling.
CANOLLES
I understand. The gentleman was the executor of important works, perhaps?
BARRABAS
No, sir, no -- I never had that honor.
CANOLLES
Assistant then?
BARRABAS
No sir, curious amateur only.
CANOLLES
And your name is, sir?
BARRABAS
Barrabas!
CANOLLES
Fine name, old name -- well spoken of in scripture.
BARRABAS
In the passion, yes, sir.
CANOLLES
That's the same thing, but from habit, I said scripture.
BARRABAS
The gentleman is a Huguenot.
CANOLLES
Very Huguenot -- there have been many living and buried in my family.
BARRABAS
I hope such a fate is not reserved for you.
CANOLLES
No, they will content themselves with drowning me. But they are very late it seems to me.
BARRABAS
Don't get impatient, sir, for I see an officer who seems to me indeed to have business with you.
CANOLLES
The governor of the place, doubtless he's coming to meet his new tenant.
BARRABAS
In fact, it appears you won't languish like certain persons who they leave for a whole week in the vestibule. You will be locked up right away.
CANOLLES
So much the better!
OFFICER
(entering)
Sir, is it to the Baron de Canolles, Captain with whom I have the honor to speak?
CANOLLES
Sir, I am truly confused by your politeness, yes, I am Baron de Canolles. Now, treat me with the courtesy of one officer towards another, and lodge me the best you can.
OFFICER
Sir, the swelling is very special, but to anticipate your desires, there are all possible alternatives.
CANOLLES
And to whom to I owe thanks that these anticipations were instituted?
OFFICER
The King, sir, who ordered all this be done.
CANOLLES
Doubtless, sir, doubtless; God protect me from slandering His Majesty especially under these circumstances! Yet, I wouldn't be annoyed to obtain certain information.
OFFICER
I am at your disposal sir, but I will take the liberty to make you aware that the garrison is waiting for you.
CANOLLES
To do what, sir?
OFFICER
To recognize you.
CANOLLES
(aside)
Plague, an entire garrison to recognize a prisoner. There are find manner it seems to me.
(aloud)
Sir, I am at your orders and quite ready to follow you wherever you escort me.
BARRABAS
I think you will be put to the ordinary question.
CANOLLES
So much the better! I'll swell up only half as much.
OFFICER
But first of all, permit me to give you the keys of the fortress.
CANOLLES
The keys.
OFFICER
We are conducting the usual ceremony, according to the most rigorous rules of etiquette.
CANOLLES
Then who do you take me for?
OFFICER
For who you are, it seems to me -- for Baron de Canolles.
CANOLLES
And then?
OFFICER
Governor of the Fort of the Isle of Saint Georges.
CANOLLES
Governor of the Fort of the Isle of St. Georges?
(to Barrabas)
No, right?
(Barrabas gives a negative sign.)
OFFICER
In a moment, I shall have the honor to turn over to the Governor the provisions I've received and which notified me that you would arrive today.
CANOLLES
So, I am governor of the Fort and the Isle of St. Georges.
OFFICER
Yes, sir, and His Majesty has made us happy by such a claim.
CANOLLES
You are sure there's no error?
OFFICER
Perfectly sure. Besides the commission and the letter are with me.
CANOLLES
Signed?
OFFICER
Doubtless.
CANOLLES
And I can have this commission, read this letter?
OFFICER
Right now.
CANOLLES
Well, sir, do me the services of finding them, I beg you.
OFFICER
Why of course! I am going, sir.
(He leaves.)
BARRABAS
Well -- Governor?
CANOLLES
Can you explain to me how this came to pass? I admit I have trouble not to take all that has happened to me for a dream.
BARRABAS
My word, sir, the dream is agreeable, especially much more agreeable as you did not expect it. As for me, I admit that when I spoke to you of 10 kettles, my word, I thought was gilding the pill for you.
CANOLLES
You were then convinced -- ?
BARRABAS
That I bought you here to be tortured, yes, sir.
CANOLLES
Thanks! Now have you arrived at some opinion on what has happened to me?
BARRABAS
Eh! Oh! Perhaps!
CANOLLES
Be so gracious as to expose it to me.
BARRABAS
Sir, here it is. The Queen must have understood how difficult was the mission she gave you. Her first moment of rage passed, she repented and as from all appearances you are not a man to hate, Her Gracious Majesty wished to reward you for having punished you too much.
CANOLLES
Inadmissable, Monsieur Barrabas.
BARRABAS
Inadmissable?
CANOLLES
Unlikely, at least.
BARRABAS
Unlikely?
CANOLLES
Yes.
BARRABAS
In that case, sir, it remains only for me to present to you my very humble congratulations. You can be as happy as a King on the Isle of St. Georges. Good wine, good hunting, fresh fish and the women, sir, the women in the neighborhood of Bordeaux. Ah -- that is what's miraculous --
CANOLLES
Very fine.
BARRABAS
(starting to leave)
I have the honor sir --
CANOLLES
Wait --
(He fumbles in his pockets.)
BARRABAS
No use, sir.
CANOLLES
What do you mean, no use?
BARRABAS
Yes, sir, you won't find it.
CANOLLES
In fact, my purse has vanished. But who the devil took my purse?
BARRABAS
I, sir.
CANOLLES
You? And why did you do that?
BARRABAS
So that you could not corrupt me.
CANOLLES
Ah! Ah! Indeed, that's well thought out! Then you took my money?
BARRABAS
And I did the right thing, sir, for if you had corrupted me, which is possible, you would have fled and if you had fled, you would quite naturally have lost the high position which has come to you, and I would be inconsolable.
CANOLLES
Truly, Monsieur Barrabas, you astonish me, and I regret not having a second purse -- but wait, I want to see if I am truly the governor of the Isle of St. Georges.
BARRABAS
How?
CANOLLES
I wish to give you a good 20 pistoles from the treasury.
BARRABAS
Useless, sir.
CANOLLES
What? You refuse my twenty pistoles?
BARRABAS
God save me from it! I have never, thanks to heaven, such false pride.
CANOLLES
Good.
BARRABAS
But I notice, sticking out from a box placed on this table certain strings which I believe are purse strings.
CANOLLES
Your foresight could be very correct, Monsieur Barrabas, for you appear to be familiar with purse strings.
BARRABAS
Indeed so, sir.
CANOLLES
(reading a little paper attached to a purse)
In fact, "a thousand pistoles for the private fund of the Governor of St. Georges."
BARRABAS
Take my compliments, sir -- the Queen does things well; unfortunately, she's twenty years older than in Buckingham's times.
OFFICER
(returning)
Here's your commission, sir, here's your letter.
CANOLLES
In fact, there can be no doubt -- and now that I am governor of the Fort St. Georges, I am forced to recognize myself as such -- when you wish I will stand the _______.
OFFICER
At your leave, sir.
CANOLLES
My dear Monsieur Barrabas, I don't run you off, but --
BARRABAS
Yes, but you prefer I should go? That suits me marvelously -- and when you have given me --
CANOLLES
Ah, that's true -- pardon, dear sir -- so, you are leaving us?
BARRABAS
Yes, sir, I am recommended to Monsieur Richon.
CANOLLES
In what capacity?
BARRABAS
As first officer of the garrison of Vayes.
CANOLLES
So, you are serving the King?
BARRABAS
I believe "yes."
CANOLLES
What -- you are not sure?
BARRABAS
One is sure of nothing in this world. For example, you promised me 20 pistoles and now --
CANOLLES
That's very true! Here they are -- go, go, my dear Barrabas and may God escort you.
BARRABAS
Sir, I am very grateful to you. You have nothing to say to Monsieur Richon?
CANOLLES
A thousand good words -- but we are neighbors and we will have occasion to see each other.
BARRABAS
Sir --
(Barrabas exits.)
OFFICER
Sir, I thought that having accomplished the duty of a soldier you won't be annoyed to accomplish the duty of a gallant man.
CANOLLES
The duty of a gallant man? Speak, sir.
OFFICER
You don't suspect what I wish to say?
CANOLLES
No, the Devil take me!
OFFICER
You know someone arrived here this morning?
CANOLLES
Someone?
OFFICER
Someone whose room is there.
CANOLLES
Whose room is there?
OFFICER
And as I presume you would be pleased to see this someone again.
CANOLLES
(stopping him)
Pardon, sir, I am extremely fatigued having travelled night and day -- I don't have a clear head this morning -- explain to me then, I beg you.
NANON
(appearing)
What! You haven't guessed?
CANOLLES
Nanon!
NANON
Bad brother, who needs must see his sister to remember her --
(to Officer)
Thanks, sir, for having obtained these few moments for me; as you said, Monsieur de Canolles will take the review tomorrow morning.
(The officer leaves.)
CANOLLES
Nanon! Nanon! Nanon! You?
NANON
Yes, me!
CANOLLES
Ah, I understand -- it's you who saved me, while I was losing myself like a fool you watch over me! you are my guardian angel!
NANON
Don't call me your angel, my friend for I am only a demon. Only I, only come at a good time, admit it?
CANOLLES
You are right -- and this time especially it was just in time, Nanon -- you saved me from the scaffold.
NANON
Really? Well, I think so too, if one must speak frankly to you. But how did you -- you so clairvoyant, so clever, let yourself be deceived by this pride of a princess?
CANOLLES
My word, I don't know. I don't understand it myself.
NANON
It's because they are tricks, my dear Canolles! Ah, gentlemen, you wish to make war on women! What did they tell me? In the place of the Princess they made you see a woman of honor, a chambermaid, a chump.
CANOLLES
I thought to see the Princess, I didn't know her.
NANON
And who was it then?
CANOLLES
But, as you said, a woman of honor, a chambermaid -- how should I know.
NANON
And it's the fault of this traitorous Mazarin, what the devil! When one charges someone with a mission as difficult as this one gives him a portrait.
(Canolles sits down)
If you had had a portrait of the Princess, or even found one in the chateau, you would indeed have recognized that it was not she you were guarding. Happily, I followed you, I had previously made Duke d'Epernon sign over the government of St. Georges' to my brother -- for you know you are my brother, my poor Canolles?
CANOLLES
I figured it out from reading your letter.
NANON
Eh! Yes! We were betrayed by another brother that I have and who unfortunately is indeed my brother. The Duke was furious -- I told him a fine story as you see -- which he believed, poor Monsieur d'Epernon. He's got too great a reputation as a diplomat not to be a little naive with the result that you are protected by the most legitimate of unions.
CANOLLES
And you came to wait for me here?
NANON
Yes, you understand: These brave Gascons do me the honor of detesting me, they want to stone me, burn me, I don't know what. I have chosen to retreat to Fort St. George to protector Canolles. Only you in the world love me a little, right my friend? Look, tell me then that you love me and not like a sister.
CANOLLES
Oh, indeed, I would be a real ingrate if I didn't love you after this.
NANON
Well, I have chosen Fort St. Georges to put my gold, my jewels and my person in safety. All is in your hands, dear friend, my wealth and my existence. Will you watch over it all carefully? Tell me, are you sure friend, faithful guardian?
CANOLLES
(rising)
Well, yes, Nanon, yes! Your possessions and your person are secure near me -- and I will die, I swear to you, to save you from the least danger.
NANON
(rising)
Thanks my noble cavalier -- oh, I was indeed sure of your generosity and your courage -- alas, I wish to be as sure of your love.
CANOLLES
Oh -- be certain.
NANON
My friend, love is not proven by oaths. It's proven by actions. I will judge your love from what you do, Canolles.
CANOLLES
(embracing her)
Well, you will judge.
(Drums and trumpets.)
NANON
(aside)
Now he must forget and he will forget.
CANOLLES
What is it?
NANON
Isn't it some honor that the garrison is preparing to render you?
CANOLLES
No, no, these are for news from outside which have come to us. Under arrest for more than 15 days, I don't know what has happened.
NANON
Oh -- I'll put you up to speed briefly. Monsieur Richon with a blank order signed by Monsieur d'Epernon is in possession of the Fort of Vayres -- towards which the royal army is diverting itself at the moment.
CANOLLES
I suspected that Richon was for the Princess -- but how did this blank order fall in his hands?
NANON
Alas, I am much afraid, my dear Canolles, that it is still another trick of my true brother. He learned, I don't know how, of the need they had at Chantilly for a blank order and exchanged it for my letter -- you know the famous letter in which I invited you to supper. He extorted this blank order from Monsieur d'Epernon which he must have given to Madame de Conde.
CANOLLES
But where is Madame de Conde?
NANON
In Bordeaux, where she was received enthusiastically.
CANOLLES
So that we find ourselves six leagues from her?
NANON
Yes.
CANOLLES
And so, from one moment to the next, we could be attacked by the army of the Princess?
NANON
Yes.
CANOLLES
Good! That's all I wanted to know.
OFFICER
(entering)
Pardon, Governor.
CANOLLES
Ah, it's you, sir -- what's wrong?
OFFICER
A member of parliament is at the gate.
(A man with a white flag.)
CANOLLES
A member of parliament? And on whose behalf?
OFFICER
On behalf of the Princess.
CANOLLES
Coming from where?
OFFICER
From Bordeaux.
CANOLLES
Ah! Ah! War is seriously declared, it appears.
OFFICER
The army of Bordeaux is not a league from here -- you can see it from the parade ground, and if you refuse the propositions that the envoy is charged to put to you, you will be attacked tonight.
CANOLLES
Is this envoy accompanied?
OFFICER
By two guards of the bourgeois militia from Bordeaux.
CANOLLES
Describe the envoy.
OFFICER
A young man, so far as one can tell.
CANOLLES
What do you mean, so far as one can tell?
OFFICER
Yes, he wears a large felt hat and is enveloped in a great cape, so that I have trouble seeing him.
CANOLLES
And he's waiting.
OFFICER
In the arms room.
CANOLLES
That's well, sir -- one moment! Your word, dear Nanon?
NANON
An envoy? What's it mean?
CANOLLES
It means that the Bordelois want to fright me or corrupt me.
NANON
And you are going to receive him?
CANOLLES
I can't spare myself that.
NANON
Oh! My God!
CANOLLES
What?
NANON
I am afraid! Didn't you say that this envoy has come to frighten you or seduce you?
CANOLLES
Are you afraid he will frighten me?
NANON
No, but perhaps he will seduce you.
CANOLLES
Oh, you doubt me to that degree?
NANON
Friend, a grace!
CANOLLES
What is it?
NANON
Permit me to assist in this interview.
CANOLLES
An envoy won't say one word in front of you.
NANON
Hidden.
CANOLLES
Where?
NANON
Behind these curtains. Let me remain near you, Canolles, I have faith in my star -- I will bring you luck.
CANOLLES
But if this envoy comes to confide some state secret in me?
NANON
Can't you confide a state secret to someone who has confided her life and fortune to you?
CANOLLES
(smiling and escorting her)
Well, since you absolutely wish it -- introduce this envoy, sir.
(The officer leaves.)
NANON
Be blessed for the good you do me!
CANOLLES
Yes, but not a single word which will betray your presence.
NANON
I swear it.
CANOLLES
Go!
(Nanon hides.)
OFFICER
(entering and announcing)
The envoy from the Princess.
CANOLLES
Bring him in.
(The officer leaves.)
THE VICOMTESS
(as a man)
It is I, sir, do you recognize me?
CANOLLES
You, Madame! Oh! What are you doing here?
NANON
(aside)
Ah!
THE VICOMTESS
Sir, I come to ask you, if after the two weeks we've been parted -- do you still remember me?
CANOLLES
Oh! Silence, silence, Madame!
THE VICOMTESS
Aren't we alone here?
CANOLLES
Indeed, but someone might hear us through these walls.
THE VICOMTESS
I think the walls of Fort St. Georges are thicker and deafer than that.
CANOLLES
Well -- you have a purpose in coming here?
THE VICOMTESS
After what happened between us at Chantilly, sir, I thought you would easily go over to the Princess' party.
CANOLLES
Alas, what could have been then, may no longer be today.
THE VICOMTESS
And why is that?
CANOLLES
Because, since that time, many unexpected events have occurred, many bonds that I thought broken have been renewed! Instead of the punishment that I thought I deserved for having allowed the Princess to escape, the Queen has substituted a reward of which I am unworthy. Today I am bound to the party of Her Majesty by gratitude.
NANON
(aside)
Alas!
THE VICOMTESS
Say by ambition, sir, and I can understand that; you are noble, of high birth, they've made you, at your age, a lieutenant colonel, governor of a fortified installation, that's fine, I know it -- but it is not the natural reward of your merit and Cardinal Mazarin is not the only one who appreciates your visit.
CANOLLES
Not a word more, I beg you!
THE VICOMTESS
You forget, sir, that it is not the Vicomtess de Cambes who speaks to you, but the envoy of the Princess. I am charged with a mission to you -- I must accomplish this mission.
CANOLLES
Speak. But why exactly is it you that the Princess chose?
THE VICOMTESS
Sir, it wasn't the Princess who chose me, but I who put myself forward. The feeling you showed me first at Janluay then later at Chantilly made me believe that I was the most agreeable envoy they could send you.
CANOLLES
Thanks Vicomtess.
THE VICOMTESS
Here then is what I propose to you in the name of the Prince -- you understand clearly -- in the name of the Prince, not mine.
CANOLLES
I am listening.
THE VICOMTESS
You will surrender the Isle of St. Georges on one of the three conditions I am offering you.
CANOLLES
Speak.
THE VICOMTESS
A sum of 300,000 pounds --
CANOLLES
To go any further would offend me, Madame. I have been charged by the Queen with the defense of Fort St. Georges -- and I will not surrender it for gold or money.
THE VICOMTESS
Listen to my second proposition.
CANOLLES
To what good? Haven't I repeated to you that I am unshakable in my resolve? Don't tempt me further -- it would be useless.
THE VICOMTESS
Pardon sir, but I must continue my offers -- aren't you left in complete liberty to refuse them?
CANOLLES
Go ahead, but truly, you are very cruel!
THE VICOMTESS
You will give your resignation, you will retire from the service and in a year, you will accept under the Prince, the grade of brigadier -- which commission will be signed for you in advance.
CANOLLES
Thanks that this idea does not come from you. Thanks even more for the embarrassment with which you broach that proposition, not that my conscience would revolt against serving this or that party -- no, I have no conviction -- who has in this war, except those with a stake in it? When the sword is drawn from its scabbard, let the blow come from this side or that -- what does it matter to me! Independent, without ambition, I accept nothing, neither from one side nor the other -- I am merely an officer, that's all -- but don't forget, Madame, a defector is always a traitor. The first name is sweeter, but the two are equivalent.
THE VICOMTESS
Well, sir, listen to my last proposition, if the order had not been prescribed to me, I would have begun with this, for I knew you would refuse the first two -- the material advantages are not things to tempt a heart like yours and I am happy to have foreseen that. For you one must appeal to noble instincts and noble rewards -- something besides hopes of ambition and fortune. Listen then.
CANOLLES
Have pity on me.
THE VICOMTESS
If in place of while self-interest, they offered you something pure and honorable -- if they paid for your resignation, then you could resign blamelessly because hostilities not yet being started. This resignation is neither a defection nor a perfidy -- pure and simple it is a chore -- if, as I say, they paid this resignation with an alliance? If a woman whom you said you love, whom you swore to love, forever -- if this woman came, in her turn to say to you "Monsieur de Canolles", I am free, I am rich, I love you, become my husband -- let's leave together, to go where you wish, away from all these civil dissensions, away from France". This time, won't you accept?
CANOLLES
Oh! My God! My God!
THE VICOMTESS
But in the name of heaven, sir, answer me. For truly, I can make nothing of your silence. Am I mistaken? Aren't you Monsieur de Canolles? Aren't you the same man who told me in Janluay that you loved me? who repeated it to me at Chantilly? Speak, speak in the name of heaven! Answer! Answer me!
NANON
(falling in a faint)
Ah! I am dying -- I am dying!
THE VICOMTESS
A woman.
CANOLLES
Nanon!
(going to Nanon)
THE VICOMTESS
(falling into a chair)
Sir, I understand now what you call duty -- gratitude.
(rising)
I understand why you are inaccessible to all these seductions -- and I leave you completely to these sentiments, to this duty -- to this gratitude. Goodbye, sir, goodbye!
(returning)
Monsieur de Canolles!
CANOLLES
Go, Madame, go.
THE VICOMTESS
Oh! He doesn't love me -- and I wretch that I am -- oh, I love him! I love him!
(She leaves.)
CANOLLES
Ah! My God! My God! I think that what I am suffering at this moment is worse than death!
(curtain)
A room in Nanon's house in Libourne. To the right a table. To the left furniture.
CASTORIN
(mouth full, served by Francinette)
Oh! My God, yes, Mademoiselle Francinette, it is as I have the honor to tell you -- you see in me a victim of duty.
FRANCINETTE
(pouring a drink)
A victim! Poor boy!
CASTORIN
The's the word! Meaning, Mademoiselle, that since the day Monsieur d'Epernons' swagger sticks caught me on the way to Libourne, I've become a symbol of perpetual motion. I am no longer a man, I am a centaur. I get off my horse to find time to saddle another.
CASTORIN
I no longer lie down except on chairs and I sleep no more than a wink.
(Francinette puts her arm around his neck.)
FRANCINETTE
Well, what's wrong with you? Come on!
CASTORIN
Oh! Don't touch me except with great precaution as if I were made of porcelain. I told you that, since I had the honor to see you, or rather since I've had the regret of not seeing you because it was impossible for me to reach you, I have traveled some five hundred leagues and I assure you it's very hard to endure -- five hundred leagues on top of one another. Still, if I had leisure to rest, it would be nothing, but I rest just like a ball that touched a racket and one sends me, the other sends me back.
FRANCINETTE
It's not I who send you back, Monsieur Castorin, do me that justice.
CASTORIN
No, it's my master, "Go lie down, my poor Castorin." "Thanks sir." "Sleep well, good friend." Thanks sir." Five minutes later, "Castorin!" "Sir?" "Let's go to Jaulnay." "Yes, sir." To Jaulnay. "En route to Mantes." "Yes, sir." To Mantes again -- he has pity on me -- he leaves me in Montes. I was stiff as a hanged corpse. "I am leaving for Chantilly, Castorin." "Yes, sir." "Rest, Castorin." "Yes, sir." "-- and then rejoin me in the morning." Twenty-four leagues in twelve hours. "Yes, sir." I arrive at Chantilly, "Where is monsieur? "He's left." "To go where?" "To go to Fort St. Georges." One hundred forty-eight leagues. Nothing much! I arrive at Fort St. Georges -- the fort is taken. "Where is monsieur?" "At Bordeaux." I arrive at Bordeaux. "It's you, Castorin?" "Yes, sir." "Castorin you are going to leave." "In what direction?" "For Libourne." "Yes, sir." I arrive in Libourne, happily this time, Mademoiselle Nanon isn't here and Mademoiselle Francinette is. I have drunk well, I have eaten well. I am going to sleep. Ha, what's that? It seems to me someone is knocking.
FRANCINETTE
(at the window)
A litter, horses, officers.
NANON
(in the street)
Francinette, open quickly, it's me.
FRANCINETTE
Ah, it's Madame.
CASTORIN
Good.
FRANCINETTE
Stay here, you will give her the letter that you've brought. It will put her in a good mood.
(She takes up everything and leaves at the rear.)
CASTORIN
(alone)
I ask you a bit, since she was en route, if she couldn't march a bit easier and not arrive until tomorrow. I don't know what rage these master always have of coming and going. It's so good to rest.
(sits down)
Ah!
(He falls asleep.)
NANON
(to Francinette entering)
A letter from Monsieur de Canolles, you say?
FRANCINETTE
Yes, Madame --
NANON
And who brought it?
FRANCINETTE
Castorin.
(Castorin wakes up, rises and gives the letter to Nanon.)
CASTORIN
Here, Madame.
NANON
Ah! Thanks!
FRANCINETTE
(to Nanon)
And it hasn't come by accident, no misfortune has come to you from the taking of Fort St. Georges.
NANON
No, nothing.
FRANCINETTE
It's that when a city is taken by assault they say it happens sometimes --
CASTORIN
(asleep on his feet)
What happens?
NANON
(reading)
"Dear Nanon, prisoner, but free in Bordeaux on my word of honor not to flee and not to correspond with the outside -- before giving my word, hurried to write you to assure you of my friendship, which my silence might make you doubt. I leave it to you to defend my honor to the King and the Queen. Your brother, Baron de Canolles." Your brother! There's some providence, I hope, too much prudence, alas --
(to Francinette)
Is Monsieur d'Epernon in Libourne?
FRANCINETTE
Yes, Madame, near the King and the Queen. But he's given the order to be warned of your arrival and I am sure that Cortanvaux has already carried it out, and that the Duke will be here in 10 minutes.
NANON
Then, there's no time to lose. Paper, pens and ink.
(Francinette puts all this on the table as well as a bell. To Castorin.)
NANON
One would say you are tired, my poor boy!
(She writes.)
CASTORIN
Yes, Madame, one would say so.
(aside)
Just like my master.
NANON
You are going to sleep -- at Bordeaux.
(giving him a letter)
Here! This is for your master.
CASTORIN
(sadly)
Thanks, Madame.
NANON
(giving him a purse)
And this is for you!
CASTORIN
(gaily)
They told me truly that Madame was generous.
NANON
Go, my friend, go! Tell your master that he can count on me and that he won't be a prisoner for very long.
CASTORIN
(aside)
Who cares! After the war, I can ask for a place with the King's courier. I will have my recommendations.
(Castorin leaves.)
NANON
There, now we are alone, miss, the Duke has no suspicion?
FRANCINETTE
Well, yes, Madam! The Duke is more mad than ever. When he learned the Fort of St. Georges was taken, he was like a madman. Then when he received the letter in which you told him, that thanks to the cares of your brother, Monsieur de Canolles, nothing had happened to you, he repeated more than ten times. "Dear Canolles! Brave Canolles! I will make him a general."
NANON
Poor Duke -- and you told him what happened to us?
FRANCINETTE
Wait, I am sure it's he I hear on the stairs. This way, this way, sir!
(She leaves after the Duke enters.)
NANON
Oh! Dear Duke, it's you? You have no idea of the impatience with which I was expecting you.
DUKE
And I, too!
NANON
You know all that has taken place? You know that Monsieur de Canolles -- ?
DUKE
Defended himself like a tiger, like a lion.
NANON
Ah! You know that?
DUKE
Don't I know everything? I even know he never surrendered, but they took him by surprise through a subterranean tunnel of whose existence everyone was totally ignorant.
NANON
Then you don't wish him ill because of his defeat, this poor brother? And the Queen -- is she angry with him?
DUKE
Not the least in the world. The fate of armies is uncertain. Paulus was beaten at Cannes, Hannibal at Zama and Pompey at Pharsales.
NANON
Then you won't be opposed to ransoming him or exchanging him?
DUKE
On the contrary, I will press for it with all my strength -- and in fact -- your brother will be free, Nanon -- as you wait --
NANON
What will you be?
DUKE
Tomorrow.
NANON
Oh! Tomorrow! How has it happened?
DUKE
It's very simple, I just learned that the governor of Vayres --
NANON
Richon?
DUKE
Yes -- he's been captured. Well, he'll be exchanged for this brave Canolles.
NANON
Oh! That's a grape from heaven, my dear Duke.
DUKE
You really love your brother?
NANON
More than my life.
DUKE
What a strange thing! You never spoke to me of him before that day I was so stupid as to --
NANON
(interrupting him)
So -- Duke -- ?
DUKE
So, I will send the Governor of Vayres to Madame Conde -- who will send Canolles to us -- and when our brave commander of the Isle of St. Georges returns to Libourne, well, we will give him a triumph! Who goes there?
CORTANVAUX
The Queen regent is asking for Milord.
DUKE
Do you know why?
CORTANVAUX
Monsieur Richon, the Governor of Vayers has arrived.
(He bows and exits.)
DUKE
You see, dear Nanon, everything falls out marvelously. I will go to the Queen and bring you the safe-conduct.
NANON
So that my brother can be here -- ?
DUKE
Tomorrow -- ! Perhaps tonight if he hastens.
NANON
Oh -- don't waste a moment. Tomorrow, this very evening -- oh! God watch him!
DUKE
Goodbye darling -- I'll be back.
NANON
Go, Duke, go!
(Exit Duke.)
NANON
(alone)
Yes, let him return! And then I'll tell him everything. I will drag Canolles far from all these terrible dangers which surround him ceaselessly -- as if they were mere phantoms! Oh! It's too much to suffer from fear for the one one loves! Today the scaffold; tomorrow the ball or the bullet.
CAUVIGNAC
(half opening the door)
Well! Good day, dear little sister!
NANON
You again, sir?
CAUVIGNAC
Again! Oh! That's not a very gracious word. I wish you to take part in the joys which are coming to me -- I came up without being announced -- Francinette warned me that the Duke was with you -- I hid myself. I entered when he left and this is the way you receive me -- ah!
NANON
It's that every time I see you, sir, some misfortune comes to me.
CAUVIGNAC
Oh! For goodness sake! Wasn't your last commission performed well? Didn't I arrive in time at Jaulnay, in time at Chantilly?
NANON
Enough!
CAUVIGNAC
You are right -- let's talk a little about me!
NANON
Yes -- what is this sash? What is this braided hat?
CAUVIGNAC
But these are the insignia of my office. I am governor.
NANON
Governor of what?
CAUVIGNAC
Of a fort.
NANON
You?
CAUVIGNAC
Why not? Indeed they made your pretend brother governor of Fort St. Georges -- so they can make your real brother governor of Fort de Braune.
NANON
And who made you governor of Fort de Braune?
CAUVIGNAC
The Queen, whom I left, and with whom I am in good.
NANON
Some new treason.
CAUVIGNAC
Oh -- for goodness sake!
NANON
Still -- why have you come?
CAUVIGNAC
Because you engaged to pay me 200 pistoles if I caught up with Monsieur de Canolles on the road to Paris, and I did so.
NANON
(going to the furniture)
That's true! And here are your 200 pistoles.
CAUVIGNAC
And here's your receipt.
NANON
No need.
CAUVIGNAC
Oh! There must be regularity in keeping accounts, as it is not likely to be the last business we'll do together.
NANON
The last!
CAUVIGNAC
Oh! No, for see here, if you continue to carry on simultaneously this noble brotherhood with Canolles, it will be difficult for you to pass me off.
NANON
I am still counting on that heavily and from tomorrow, when the Queen shall have signed the exchange for Monsieur de Canolles, the governor or Fort St. Georges, in return for M. Richon, the governor of Vayres.
CAUVIGNAC
Ah, you are counting on that exchange?
NANON
Well, am I wrong to?
CAUVIGNAC
Yes, I think so.
NANON
Why?
CAUVIGNAC
Because they will not give M. Richon his freedom -- they are going to give him a fair trail and hang him.
CAUVIGNAC
For what reason?
CAUVIGNAC
Because he entered Vayres with a false commission.
NANON
With a false commission? Impossible.
CAUVIGNAC
Don't tell that to me.
NANON
Not to you?
CAUVIGNAC
Doubtless. I was the one who named him governor of Vayres.
NANON
You're mad!
CAUVIGNAC
You recall that blank order?
NANON
The Duke's blank order.
CAUVIGNAC
Yes! The one on which he put his famous mark.
NANON
Well?
CAUVIGNAC
Well, I rid myself of it in favor of Richon -- with the result that --
NANON
Ah! My God!
CAUVIGNAC
With the result that, as Monsieur d'Epernon has sown to hang the bearer of the order and as Monsieur Richon is the bearer -- just as the little king swore to hang anyone who fired a cannon on the royal army, and as Richon fired the cannon -- so, you understand!
NANON
But how could he let himself be taken when he was taking such a great gamble?
CAUVIGNAC
Ah! As to that, it was I again who took it.
NANON
You?
CAUVIGNAC
Yes, and I began to think that I never did anything better in my life.
NANON
You, wretch! But why is that?
CAUVIGNAC
I had introduced three or four men into the place -- as bandits, there was nothing to say about there -- as honest men -- much otherwise it appears -- well, it appears they surrender the place without consulting the governor and --
NANON
And?
CAUVIGNAC
And, my word, I wouldn't care to be inhabiting the skin of this wretched, Richon.
NANON
Francinette! Francinette!
FRANCINETTE
Yes, Madam?
NANON
Run after the Duke -- let some one get to him even if he is near the Queen and tell him I am waiting for him, asking for him, calling him.
FRANCINETTE
The Duke has returned and is in conversation below with two people. I will run to warn him.
(She leaves.)
NANON
(to Cauvignac after having opened the door)
Leave! Leave!
CAUVIGNAC
Oh! This time I won't say a word and I even admit that I won't be easy until I'm behind the walls of Braune.
(He leaves.)
FRANCINETTE
(returning)
His Lordship, the Duke.
NANON
Come in, sir, come in quickly.
DUKE
You know what's happened to us?
NANON
Yes, I know something of it; but tell me everything.
DUKE
All is discovered!
NANON
What has been discovered?
DUKE
You recall this anonymous accusation touching your supposed love affair with your brother?
NANON
Well?
DUKE
You recall the blank order which was extorted from me?
NANON
Yes.
DUKE
Well, the accuser is in our hands, my sweet, taken in the net of his blank check -- like a fox in a snare.
NANON
Oh! My God! But this man, this man -- what have you done?
DUKE
What have we done? You are going to see yourself what we have done.
(noise in the wings opposite the window)
Oh, hold on my word, this is falling out marvelously -- let's open this window wide -- my word, he's an enemy of the King and we are going to see him hang.
(He opens the window.)
NANON
Hang! What are you saying, sir? Hang the man with the blank order?
DUKE
Yes, and he won't escape. Ah! There's the King who's at the window.
NANON
But, sir, this wretch is not guilty, this unfortunate man --
DUKE
Ah! There -- they are bringing Monsieur Richon -- he's going to hang high and swiftly from a beam in the Hall. That will teach him to slander women.
NANON
But, sir, this man is a brave officer, you are going to murder an honest man. Ah, sir, give orders, there is still time. Give a sign. Stop this killing! Something tells me that this death will bring us misfortune. In the name of heaven, you who are powerful, you who say you never refuse me anything, grant me the pardon of this man, I ask it on my knees, on my knees.
(A cannon shot can be heard.)
DUKE
It's much too late! Look.
NANON
(going to the window)
Ah!
(She recoils, fainting.)
DUKE
(closing the window and going to Nanon)
Come, come! Be less good, less sensitive, dear Nanon! When there's a civil war, you don't play like children.
NANON
No! No! No!
DUKE
And at Bordeaux, especially at Bordeaux, when they see that they had provoked reprisals, when they see us hang their governor, you will see what they will do.
NANON
Reprisals toward Bordeaux! My God! But you are forgetting there are some of our prisoners at Bordeaux -- our prisoners -- and that? Ah! Damn you, sir, you who have killed him!
DUKE
Killed! Who?
NANON
Don't you understand, blood thirsty maniac, that at Bordeaux there's a captain, a governor prisoner, a wretch on whom the Bordelars will avenge the murder of this man you have assassinated just now? Don't you understand yet that Monsieur de Canolles is at Bordeaux?
DUKE
Ah, it's true -- your brother, this poor Canolles.
NANON
My brother, yes, my brother, my beloved friend. He's lost.
DUKE
Not yet, thank God!
NANON
(in despair)
I tell you that he is lost, sir, and that I am dying.
DUKE
Relax, dear Nanon. I've done wrong, but I'll fix everything.
NANON
How's that?
DUKE
The Queen has some friends in Bordeaux, the Governor of Guyenne has gold in his coffers. All that can be done with power and gold, I will do to save Monsieur de Canolles, your dear brother.
NANON
Ah, if you succeed, how I will love you, sir.
(She throws herself at his feet, he raises her, embraces her and goes to the table.)
DUKE
Watch carefully what I am going to write. In a quarter of an hour, the courier will rush this letter on the way to Bordeaux. This evening the King's attorney, Monsieur Larie, who is with us will have given his orders to the jailor of Monsieur de Canolles, this evening, your brother will be free.
(rising)
To save Monsieur de Canolles, to save the governor of a royal chateau, to save the brother of Nanon -- I am offering a million, I authorize murder and arson. Is that what you need? Do you find I've repaired my mistake?
NANON
(reading)
So that Monsieur de Canolles shall be free, the governor, the brother of Nanon? Yes, yes.
DUKE
You are satisfied?
NANON
I bless you! Hey! Someone.
(Cortanvaux appears.)
DUKE
Put on your usual disguise. Ride my best horse to death so that in five hours this letter will be in Monsieur Larie's hands.
CORTANVAUX
In Bordeaux?
NANON
In Bordeaux! Go, sir, go!
(aside)
My God! If he were to accuse me at this moment of having betrayed him, perhaps later tonight he will love me for having saved him?
(They leave by the rear.)
(curtain)
The gardens of the house of Madame de Cambes in Bordeaux. To the right, a flight of stone steps giving on an alley of lime trees.
CANOLLES
(entering - to Ravailly)
Ah, you're here my dear enemy! What the devil brings you to this house?
RAVAILLY
I came to get orders from the Princess.
CANOLLES
The Princess is here now?
RAVAILLY
She lives here.
CANOLLES
Bah! The princes lives with the Vicomtess de Cambes?
RAVAILLY
Two cannon shots fell this morning on the Hotel de Ville which the alderman had put at the disposition of the Princess. The Vicomtess learned of it and came to offer her house, and the Princess accepted.
CANOLLES
Ah! Really -- but you seem to be taking your departure.
RAVAILLY
Yes, I am leading a relief party to Monsieur Richon who it appears is very sorely pressed in the Fort of Vayres.
CANOLLES
Then, I won't detain you; Richon is one of my friends -- and one of the very best even.
RAVAILLY
What! And you are serving against each other?
CANOLLES
Alas! You know, one of the misfortunes of civil war is not having the right to choose your enemies. But you waste time, my good Richon is calling you -- go, sir, go!
RAVAILLY
And you, sir, aren't you thinking of your ransom?
CANOLLES
My word, no! I am doing wonderfully here -- I am quite aware the Queen would exchange me for a high ranking officer or buy me back with several sacks of gold -- I am not worth the expense. I will wait until Her Majesty has taken Bordeaux. She will have me for nothing.
RAVAILLY
Well, what are you going to do here?
CANOLLES
What I have done up to now. Women are engrossed by the war -- as for me, I stay by the door of churches and offer holy water to the devotees.
RAVAILLY
Then, I will tell Monsieur Richon that you are indeed not in despair to be a prisoner.
CANOLLES
Tell him I have never been so happy.
(Ravailly leaves.)
THE VICOMTESS
(entering)
Take care, Baron, if some day you complain of your captivity, I will repeat what I just heard --
CANOLLES
And I will repeat to you what I've just said -- Alas! Yes, I've never been so happy!
THE VICOMTESS
Baron, there's an "alas" which, permit me to tell you, seems to me much out of place in such a phrase.
CANOLLES
No, Madame, on the contrary pervades all my thoughts. I am happy when I see you.
THE VICOMTESS
But you didn't see me just now?
CANOLLES
I felt your presence. Do you think one only sees with the eyes of the body? No, when you come near me, I feel a sweetening in the air, flowers becoming more beautiful -- I say to myself "She's there." I turn about and I see you.
THE VICOMTESS
You were in such despair when you got there!
CANOLLES
(escorting the Vicomtess and sitting with her)
What do you want -- my life was taking a strange turn. Yes, I was desolate -- for I let myself be surprised at night -- my reputation as a soldier was lost.
THE VICOMTESS
Could you have known of this secret vault, this passageway built under the river which opened in the very heart of the Fortress -- a passage known to only a few people.
CANOLLES
I couldn't have known it, but I should have discovered it. Yes, I was desolate, but I saw you once more, this power you have over me, you who conquered from the beginning -- whose power has only grown since -- you took over. There I again became your slave, and I admit it to my shame, I am happy.
THE VICOMTESS
Are you speaking the truth?
CANOLLES
Do I know how to lie?
THE VICOMTESS
If you don't know how to life, Baron, tell me then, frankly, loyally, what place does that woman have in your heart, she who was shut up with you at Fort St. Georges, who listened to us, and who recognizing me for a woman, fainted?
CANOLLES
The place that has the right to reclaim a devoted friendship. This woman loved me before I knew you. I won't tell you what I felt for her, except that it was a love equal to her love -- no, poor fearful slave, she didn't insist that one love her. She only asked to be permitted to love. Not thinking how great this love was, profound, real, disinterested. I gave to mine the shape of a caprice -- that's all. Even before knowing you, I was an ingrate to poor Nanon! And I tell you, I would truly be the happiest of men --
THE VICOMTESS
If --
CANOLLES
If I had no more remorse.
THE VICOMTESS
Remorse! Remorse!
CANOLLES
Yes, Madame, remorse! For as truly as I am speaking to you, I tell you that I love you, that I love only you. From the moment I told you this there's a woman who weeps, who trembles, who would give her life for me, and who ought to tell herself that I am a coward or a traitor.
THE VICOMTESS
Oh, sir.
CANOLLES
Eh! Madame, didn't I take an oath to defend her? To protect her? Didn't I answer for her life and liberty?
THE VICOMTESS
Well, you know that she escaped with her life, you know she is free, you know she has rejoined Monsieur d'Epernon.
CANOLLES
Yes, you told me that already.
THE VICOMTESS
Ah, sir, you still love Mademoiselle de Lartigues?
CANOLLES
Madame, if I told you I felt no more for her than a friendly gratitude, I would be lying. Believe me, Claire, take me with this feeling -- I am giving you all that I can give of love, and I am giving you much.
THE VICOMTESS
Alas, I cannot accept, for perhaps you are testing a heart more generous than loving.
CANOLLES
Listen! I would die to spare you a tear, and I made her _______________________, poor woman, she has enemies! Those who do not know her, curse her, and those who know her, scorn her. You have only friends -- those who don't know you, respect you, and those who know you, love you. Judge the difference between these two feelings -- one of which is dictated by my conscience, the other by my heart.
THE VICOMTESS
Thanks, my friend. But perhaps, you are being carried away by my presence and you may repent of it -- weight my words carefully. I give you until tomorrow to reply -- if you wish to say something to Mademoiselle de Lartigues, if you wish to write to her or send her a message -- even if you wish to rejoin her -- you are free, Canolles. I will take you by the hand. I will even lead you outside the gates of Bordeaux.
CANOLLES
It is useless to wait till tomorrow, Madame, I tell you with a burning heart -- but a cold head -- I love you! I only love you, and I will never love anyone except you.
THE VICOMTESS
Oh! Thanks! Thanks! Well, I believe your word, I believe your oath, I especially believe my own heart -- and from this evening -- if you want a priest -- in the Carmelite Chapel.
CANOLLES
(falling to his knees)
Oh, Madame -- how happy you make me!
THE VICOMTESS
Listen, my friend -- I need permission from the Princess. Oh! Don't worry -- it's simple fortunately -- return this evening. Until this evening! Your wife will be waiting for you.
CANOLLES
Madame, all my love, all my life!
THE VICOMTESS
Go, go, Baron! Here's the Princess. We aren't leaving each other, since I am going to busy myself with uniting us forever.
CANOLLES
She's not alone.
THE VICOMTESS
It's Monsieur de la Rochefoucauld.
CANOLLES
Well, what's the matter?
THE VICOMTESS
I don't know, my friend. The sight of this callous man, cold as marble, hard as steel -- the sight of this man always says ill of a friend to please us -- the sight of this man makes me ill. It seems to me, I don't know why, it seems to me that the presence of this man will be fatal to us.
CANOLLES
And why's that, Madam? We don't know him and he doesn't know us.
THE VICOMTESS
You are right.
(Canolles leaves.)
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
(entering)
Yes, Madame, I answer to you for Richon, as much as before, let's agree, as much as a man can answer for another man.
PRINCESS
Since you answer, Duke that's all that's necessary.
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
Let's understand each other. Madame, I cannot answer for anyone. I gave him to you; you took him -- and I believe him to be a very honest man -- but a very honest man -- as if I believe in honest people.
PRINCESS
Truly, Duke, you are giving way to despair. And our Bordelars -- do you think they will hold out?
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
Oh! Yes! So long as they see it in their interest. While waiting, Princess leave it to me -- I know what we need to promise them.
PRINCESS
That's well, go Duke -- I notice a friend of mine there, who not being able to see me at all times during the day has requested an audience with me, which makes me think she has something very solemn to tell me. Go make your promises. I am going to try to fulfill my obligations.
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
I have the honor to present my respectful homage to Your Highness.
(bowing)
(to Vicomtess)
Madame.
(He leaves.)
PRINCESS
Well, little one -- what's so important? You see instead of waiting for you, I've rushed to you!
THE VICOMTESS
Madame, it's that in the midst of the happiness so much due Your Highness, I came to beg you to cast your glance over your faithful servant who also needs a little happiness.
PRINCESS
With great pleasure, my good Claire, and the happiness God may send you will never equal the happiness I wish you! What boon do you wish? Say, and if it is in my power, count in advance, that it is granted you.
THE VICOMTESS
Widow, free, too free! For this liberty weighs more heavily on me than slavery would. I wish to change my solitude for a better condition.
PRINCESS
Meaning you want to get married, right little one?
THE VICOMTESS
I think so, yes.
PRINCESS
Well, so be it! We'll look after that. Oh -- rest assured we will have care of your pride. You must have a Duke and peer, Vicomtess. I will find one for you among my followers.
THE VICOMTESS
Oh, Your Highness, takes too much care, and I wasn't expecting to give her such trouble.
PRINCESS
But you are speaking to me as if your choice was already made, as if you had in your hand the husband you ask of me.
THE VICOMTESS
In effect -- it's as Your Highness says.
PRINCESS
Truly! And who is this happy mortal. Speak! Fear nothing. Do I know him?
THE VICOMTESS
Your Highness has seen him at least.
PRINCESS
There's no need to ask if he's young!
THE VICOMTESS
Thirty.
PRINCESS
And noble?
THE VICOMTESS
He's a fine gentleman.
PRINCESS
And courageous!
THE VICOMTESS
His reputation is made.
PRINCESS
And right!
THE VICOMTESS
I am.
PRINCESS
Marvelous! Now, I only need to know one thing.
THE VICOMTESS
Which is?
PRINCESS
The name of the fortunate gentleman who already possesses the heart, and who will soon possess the person of the most beautiful warrior in my army?
THE VICOMTESS
Madame, it's --
(Ravailly, covered with dust enters.)
RAVAILLY
Her Highness! Where is Her Highness?
PRINCESS
Who's that?
RAVAILLY
Ah! Madam!
PRINCESS
Didn't you leave yet, Monsieur de Ravailly?
RAVAILLY
I was already en route, Madame, with five hundred men who I was leading to Richon when I learned -- I ask pardon of Your Highness for being the messenger of such bad news! When I learned the Fort of Vayres had capitulated --
PRINCESS
The Fort of Vayres has capitulated? Richon surrendered?
RAVAILLY
Alas! Madame, there's no doubt of it.
PRINCESS
Oh -- the coward!
LENET
Madame, Richon is not a coward! I answer for him body for body -- and if he capitulated, it was because he couldn't do otherwise.
PRINCESS
Eh! Sir, he ought to die rather than surrender.
LENET
Eh, Madame, can one die when one wishes? But at least he's a prisoner with a guarantee, I hope.
RAVAILLY
Without guarantee, sir, I am afraid. They told me it was a major, a lieutenant, who had negotiated, so indeed there may have been some treason involved, and that instead of making conditions, Richon was betrayed.
LENET
Yes, betrayed, sold out! That's it! I know Richon -- I know he's incapable of such cowardice, of such weakness. Oh, Madame, betrayed, sold out! Do you understand? Let's busy ourselves with him, right away! Write quickly, Madame, write, I beg you.
PRINCESS
What shall I write, and to whom?
LENET
Why to save him, Madame.
PRINCESS
Bah! My dear Lenet, when one surrenders a fortress, one takes his precautions.
LENET
But don't you understand that he didn't surrender it? Don't you understand what the captain said, "Betrayed, sold out!" That the negotiations were with a lieutenant and not with him? Oh, Madame, I beg you, write to Monsieur de la Mallerad, send a messenger, an envoy.
PRINCESS
And what mission shall we give this messenger?
LENET
That of preventing the death of a brave captain perhaps, for it you do not listen. Oh, I know the Queen, Madame, and perhaps your messenger will arrive too late.
PRINCESS
Too late? Haven't we some hostages? Haven't we at Chantilly, at Montreal, even here -- haven't we some of the King's officers or the King's prisoners?
THE VICOMTESS
Oh, Madame, don't do what Monsieur Lenet asks. Reprisals won't gain Monsieur Richon's freedom.
LENET
It's not a question of his liberty -- it's a question of his life.
PRINCESS
Well, what they will do, they will do to him, prison for prison, scaffold-for-scaffold.
THE VICOMTESS
(on her knees)
Oh, Madame, Monsieur Richon is one of my friends -- I just asked you for a boon and you promised to grant me it -- well, Madame, in the name of my deep respect, in the name of my unalterable devotion to you, I demand you save Monsieur Richon.
PRINCESS
Well, so be it -- give me pen, ink and paper.
THE VICOMTESS
Here, Madame, here's what Your Highness asks for.
PRINCESS
Thanks little one. Find me a messenger.
RAVAILLY
The messenger is already found -- here I am. I have only seen Monsieur Richon once or twice but it's been enough to convince me he was a brave and loyal officer.
LENET
(to Vicomtess aside)
Madame, I know not whether you have an interest in some prisoner, but, if you do, believe a man who is your servant in all things -- advice should be given to this prisoner.
THE VICOMTESS
Advice?
LENET
Advice not to remain a prisoner if it's possible.
THE VICOMTESS
Yes, you are right. But where will I find him again. And I gave him a rendezvous here -- thanks Monsieur Lenet, thanks. I recommend Richon to you.
LENET
Oh -- rest assured.
(The Vicomtess leaves.)
PRINCESS
Here, Monsieur de Ravailly -- here's a letter for Monsieur de Meilleses -- I hope that enemies though we are he won't refuse it.
(noise in the court)
What's that?
SHOUTS
(outside)
Braune! Braune! The governor of Braune, a prisoner.
LENET
Ah, ah, the governor of Braune, a prisoner! I am not sorry. If the news is true, this will give us a hostage who will answer for Richon.
PRINCESS
Haven't we the governor of the Isle of St. Georges -- Monsieur de Canolles?
MME DE TOURVILLE
I am happy the plan I proposed for taking Braune indeed succeeded.
LENET
Oh, Madame, let's not delude ourselves with a victory complete -- chance plays with the plans of men and sometimes even the plans of women.
SHOUTS
(outside)
Death! Death to the Governor of Braune! Death!
PRINCESS
Ah, ah, decidedly it appears there's a prisoner?
LENET
Yes, Madame, and even this prisoner runs the danger of death. Do you hear those threats.
(He runs to the parapet.)
SHOUTS
Death to the prisoner! Death to the governor of Braune. Death! Death!
LENET
(on the parapet)
Hold firm, gentleman, hold firm, Monsieur de Ravailly -- take some men and hurry! Courage! courage! Ah -- there he is.
CAUVIGNAC
(entering brought in by Ravailly and soldiers)
My word thanks gentleman, for you prevented me from being devoured by those cannibals. Plague -- if they eat men like this, the day the royal army assaults your town they will devour it raw.
CROWD
(at the door, in the rear)
Come on, he's a brave fellow. Long live the governor of Braune.
CAUVIGNAC
My word yes -- long live the Governor of Braune -- I must prefer him to live.
LENET
Monsieur Cauvignac.
PRINCESS
Monsieur Cauvignac in the royal army! Monsieur Cauvignac, governor of Braune. But this smells of high treason.
CAUVIGNAC
Huh! What did Your Highness say? I thought she pronounced the word treason.
PRINCESS
Yes, sir, treason! For under what title do you present yourself before me?
CAUVIGNAC
Under the title of the Governor of Braune.
PRINCESS
Who signed your orders?
CAUVIGNAC
Cardinal Mazarin.
PRINCESS
And how can you serve in the royal army after having taken an engagement in ours?
CAUVIGNAC
But because Her Highness, failing in her engagements to me, discharged me from mine.
PRINCESS
What's the man talking about?
CAUVIGNAC
The truth. I call upon Monsieur Lenet.
PRINCESS
What do you think of this Monsieur Lenet?
LENET
I am forced to admit that it is the exact truth, Madame. Before Your Highness' departure, I had time to give 10,000 pounds to the gentlemen but I lacked the time to give him a commission.
PRINCESS
Still, you recognize yourself my prisoner, right?
CAUVIGNAC
Madame, I'm accustomed to admit the evidence, and I admit too that I much prefer to be the prisoner of a great Princess like you than to be that of the populace which was going to chop me to pieces if M. Lenet hadn't come to my rescue.
(meanwhile La Rochefoucauld has spoken low to the Princess)
Oh! Oh! Who's this fellow?
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
Would you ask the prisoner if he can give you some details on the death of Monsieur Richon?
PRINCESS
On the death of Monsieur Richon.
LENET
Richon is dead?
CAUVIGNAC
(aside)
The Devil! This is getting muddled!
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
Yes, and they saw to it his death was degrading.
ALL
Degrading?
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
Yes.
PRINCESS
What! Richon?
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
He died the death of thieves and murderers. Richon was hanged.
CAUVIGNAC
(aside)
Ah!
PRINCESS
Oh! But I hope we shall avenge ourselves and that cruelly.
CAUVIGNAC
(aside)
Beware of reprisals!
PRINCESS
Let's go back inside, Duke, we will meet in council. While waiting, take command of the city -- I leave to you the care of avenging my honor and your feelings -- for before entering my service, Richon was in yours. I had him from you, and you gave him rather as one of your friends than as one of your servants.
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
Rest assured, Madame, I will remember what I owe myself and you over this poor dead man. Let the Governor of Braune be escorted to the Chateau Trompette, Monsieur de Ravailly don't go away -- there will be some orders to execute while waiting, guard the exits. Come, Madame.
CAUVIGNAC
(aside)
This is going bad! This is going bad! This is going bad!
(The clock strikes ten.)
Cauvignac, the Princess and La Rochefoucauld exit with followers. Ravailly posts sentinels.
CANOLLES
(appears at the rear)
Ten o'clock -- that's really it. Come on, my heart is more at ease, I have written this poor Nanon to tell her everything is finished between us -- then -- strange things as if I were pursued by some unknown danger. I went into a church and prayed. Claire didn't tell me if I ought to ask for her while waiting. Let's wait.
RAVAILLY
That's it, sergeant. Two men at the foot of the stairs. Two men at this door.
CANOLLES
Oh! Oh! Who's speaking there?
RAVAILLY
It seems to me I see someone. Have orders already been given me?
CANOLLES
Ah! It's your Monsieur de Ravailly?
RAVAILLY
(aside)
Monsieur de Canolles -- poor fellow!
CANOLLES
Haven't you left yet on your expedition?
RAVAILLY
On the contrary, I've already returned.
CANOLLES
Ah!
RAVAILLY
(aside, seeing Lenet enter)
Monsieur Lenet!
LENET
(aside)
That's officer.
CANOLLES
What did you just say?
RAVAILLY
(a low voice)
I, sir? I was saying that, if I were a prisoner of war, on parole, for fear that parole wouldn't be kept with me, I would jump on a good horse, I would reach the river, I would give 10 crowns, 20 crowns, 100 crowns to a boatman and my word the next day -- whatever happens, happens.
CANOLLES
Ah! You were saying that?
RAVAILLY
Yes, sir.
CANOLLES
And to whom were you saying that, Captain?
RAVAILLY
To myself, since I would risk my commission if I said it to anyone else.
(going off)
My word, I did what I could.
CANOLLES
(to himself)
What do these words signify?
LENET
Monsieur de Canolles.
CANOLLES
Monsieur Lenet?
LENET
Do you know the news?
CANOLLES
NO, but tell me, I want to know.
LENET
I haven't the time, but rush over to the cloister of the Carmelites and you will find Mme de Cambes who will tell you.
CANOLLES
Madame de Cambes? But she told me to wait for her here.
LENET
She's changed her mind. Go without losing a moment, and if she isn't there -- wait for her in the darkest corner, till she comes to rejoin you. Do you have money?
CANOLLES
What for?
LENET
You never know -- in times of civil war -- you may need to leave a spot at the moment you least expected it.
CANOLLES
(aside)
Oh! Oh! Both of them are telling me the same thing in different ways.
LENET
You hesitate.
CANOLLES
No, sir, I am going.
(He separates.)
LENET
(seeing Ravailly receive an order)
I believe it was in time.
THE VICOMTESS
(entering)
Ah, it's you.
CANOLLES
Yes.
THE VICOMTESS
What are you doing here?
CANOLLES
I was waiting for you.
THE VICOMTESS
Well, I am searching for you.
CANOLLES
Well?
THE VICOMTESS
Come!
CANOLLES
Where?
THE VICOMTESS
Come, I tell you!
CANOLLES
But --
LENET
Go or it will be too late.
CANOLLES
I am following you.
SENTINEL
You cannot pass.
THE VICOMTESS
What! I cannot pass?
SENTINEL
You, yes, but the not the gentleman.
LENET
Try the other.
SECOND SENTINEL
No one can pass!
THE VICOMTESS
Oh!
CANOLLES
Ah! I understand the advice they gave me.
RAVAILLY
My dear colonel, I am in despair from new measures taken by the council of the Princess.
CANOLLES
You are arresting me? Oh, speak frankly. I've been accustomed to being arrested for some time that if I pass a week without being under arrest, it will astonish me.
RAVAILLY
You won't be deprived except for a short time of your liberty. I hope --
CANOLLES
But I was already a prisoner?
RAVAILLY
Only you had the city for your prison, whereas now --
CANOLLES
That's right -- now you escort me to the fortress?
RAVAILLY
It's not my fault, Colonel -- I already said enough, it seems to me, and at least to add that Monsieur Richon was dead.
CANOLLES
Thanks, Monsieur Ravailly -- thanks Monsieur Lenet. Madame -- I commend myself to your prayers.
THE VICOMTESS
Oh, my God! What to do?
LENET
The order comes from the Princess, she can revoke the order she has given -- leave Monsieur de Canolles and occupy yourself with the Princess.
THE VICOMTESS
Baron, fear nothing -- I am here, I watch. Tomorrow, oh, tomorrow I swear to you, you will be free.
CANOLLES
Try to be the one who announces my freedom to me, Madame, it will be a double joy to me.
RAVAILLY
Are you ready, Monsieur de Canolles?
CANOLLES
I follow you, gentlemen!
(exit Canolles, Ravailly and guards.)
THE VICOMTESS
(to Lenet)
Madame is there?
LENET
Yes, but with Monsieur de la Rochefoucauld.
THE VICOMTESS
Great God! I must speak to her instantly, without delay.
LENET
Let me inform her. But I think it's useless.
(La Rochefoucauld, Madame de Tourville, officers enter.)
MME DE TOURVILLE
Ah, it's you Monsieur Lenet! My word, it was fortunate you weren't present.
LENET
And why, Madam?
MME DE TOURVILLE
Because for the first time my plan prevailed.
LENET
Ah! You are for reprisals, I take it.
MME DE TOURVILLE
Yes, as everyone else -- unanimous for reprisals.
THE VICOMTESS
Pardon, Madame, I am less familiar than you with the terms of war -- what do you mean by reprisals?
MME DE TOURVILLE
I mean that what has been done to Monsieur Richon will be done to the first royal officer we have in our hands.
THE VICOMTESS
Richon has been arrested, put in prison? Richon is dead?
MME DE TOURVILLE
Richon was judged, condemned and executed.
THE VICOMTESS
Richon has been executed.
MME DE TOURVILLE
Richon has been hanged, my dear, and we are looking for an officer of the royal army to hang him.
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
But it seems to me this officer is already found, and that by order of the Princess, Monsieur de Canolles has already been arrested.
THE VICOMTESS
Monsieur de Canolles.
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
Yes, or indeed Monsieur de Ravailly must be disobeyed.
THE VICOMTESS
No, no, Monsieur de Canolles has indeed been arrested here in front of me -- just now even. But this is a trick isn't it? Duke, a warning that's all. One cannot do anything, it seems to me at least, one can do nothing to a prisoner on parole.
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
Madame, Richon was a prisoner on parole.
THE VICOMTESS
Sir, I beg you.
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
Useless, Madame, this is a decision about which there's no going back. An officer of the royal army will be executed as was Monsieur Richon -- come gentleman.
(He leaves with officers and Mme de Tourville.)
THE VICOMTESS
(to Princess entering with Lenet)
Oh, Madame, in the name of heaven, hear me, don't repulse me.
PRINCESS
What's wrong, my child, and why are you crying?
THE VICOMTESS
I am crying, Madame, because I've learned that in council you value for death -- and now Madame, you cannot kill Monsieur de Canolles?
PRINCESS
And why's that? They indeed killed Monsieur Richon.
THE VICOMTESS
But, Madame, recall this is the same Monsieur de Canolles who saved Your Highness at Chantilly.
PRINCESS
Ought I to give him credit for being duped by our ruse?
THE VICOMTESS
And there's the error, Madame, it's that Monsieur de Canolles recognized me -- he had two hundred men at the Gate of Chantilly that he could call with a whistle -- perhaps he was wrong but he sacrificed his duty to his love.
PRINCESS
So he loved you then?
THE VICOMTESS
He loves me. But the one I just now asked you for permission to marry was -- it was Monsieur de Canolles, Madam! I made Monsieur de Canolles prisoner at St. Georges since it was I who betrayed this unknown secret passage, so reflect, Madame, if you kill him, it will be I who have brought his death.
PRINCESS
My dear child, think what you are asking is an impossible thing -- Richon is dead -- Richon must be avenged.
THE VICOMTESS
Oh, wretch, wretch that I am -- it is I who have ruined him, the man I love.
LENET
Madame.
PRINCESS
Ah, you too, Lenet?
LENET
Pardon Madame, they said the death of Monsieur Richon must be avenged on an officer of the royal army.
PRINCESS
Well, isn't Monsieur de Canolles an officer of the royal army?
LENET
True, Madame, but this adventurer, this governor of the town of Braune, this Monsieur de Cauvignac, is also an officer the royal army.
PRINCESS
Ah -- the gentleman with the severed arm! Meaning you ask the life of the one in exchange for that of the other? Is that just?
LENET
Firs to fall, it is just, Madame, that when a single man must die, that one does not make two die, it is enough to blow out only once this torch lit by the hand of God, and that one calls life. Furthermore, it is just, if a choice must be made, to save an honest man in preference to an intriguer.
PRINCESS
Well, my old, friend, be content! Be happy my sweet Claire! Reassure yourselves, both of you -- only one will die since you wish it. But don't come back to me demanding grace for the one who is destined to die.
THE VICOMTESS
Oh! Thanks, Madam! From this moment my life and his belong to you.
LENET
In doing this, Madame, you will be at once just and merciful, which up till now has been the privilege of God alone.
THE VICOMTESS
And now, Madame, can I see him? Can I free him?
PRINCESS
See him, yes -- deliver him, no. But you have my word as Princess, Claire -- go bring him to her.
THE VICOMTESS
A word from you, Madame, to enter the fortress?
PRINCESS
(sitting and writing)
Here it is.
(While she is writing, the Vicomtess is on her knees, kissing the hem of her dress.)
LENET
Why are princesses so rarely happy -- it's really such an easy thing to do!
PRINCESS
Because they don't often have councilors like you near them, Lenet.
THE VICOMTESS
(taking the pass)
Oh, thanks, Madame, thanks!
(curtain)
The prison.
RAVAILLY
Monsieur de Canolles! Sir.
CANOLLES
(seated)
Sir?
(turning to Ravailly)
RAVAILLY
Would you like some supper?
CANOLLES
Willingly.
RAVAILLY
In that case give your orders. The jailor ordered to give you food, that's agreeable.
CANOLLES
Really? Come, it appears I will be treated honorable while I remain here. That's always something.
RAVAILLY
I am waiting!
CANOLLES
Ah, that's true! Excuse me, your question provoked certain thoughts. Let's return to the subject. Yes, my dear friend, I will eat, I'm very hungry, but I am sober, and a soldier's meal will suffice for me.
RAVAILLY
Now, you have no recommendation to make?
CANOLLES
None!
RAVAILLY
In the town.
CANOLLES
In the town? Why in the town?
RAVAILLY
Yes, aren't you waiting for something? Look, you just told me you are a soldier, I am, too -- behave towards me as you would with a comrade.
CANOLLES
No, dear friend, I have no recommendation to make in the town, I await nothing. It's true, I am indeed waiting for someone, but I cannot tell you his name -- as for your friendly offers, thanks, my dear lieutenant; if I have need of you, I will tell you so frankly.
RAVAILLY
For the moment, all you ask is for supper --
CANOLLES
Well?
RAVAILLY
You are going to be served, sir -- goodbye!
(Exit Ravailly.)
CANOLLES
(alone)
What a solemn air he has on the subject of food! Don't people eat in prison? How this dinner all alone, reminds me of the one I had alone at Biscarros Inn the day Richon refused to sit with me. Poor Richon! He was a brave fellow. War is such a stupid thing. Alive yesterday, dead today. It would have been better for him to die on his cannons, the intrepid man! As I would have done at St. Georges, but for that cursed tunnel. Ah, the reversals are irritating -- the death of Richon will double the rigors of my captivity -- they won't give me the run of the city, no more rendezvous in those beautiful gardens -- ! Perhaps they will see me cooped up 15 feet underground, rather than be able to live and spread out in the sun near a beloved woman. A poetic wish transformed by a brutal deception! No more of marriage, for Claire won't be satisfied with a prison chapel. Bah -- still be content -- one is married just as well in one chapel as another.
(noise, shouts outside)
Ah -- they're bringing my supper.
(Two soldiers carrying a table. Canolles looks out the window through the bars.)
CANOLLES
What the devil's going on in the town! Where are all those people going? It seems to be the esplanade. There's neither a parade nor an execution at this hour. They're running the same way -- again! Well, my place is set.
(he eats)
Some Bordeaux -- it will be good for these good men as for me --
(to soldiers)
My friends, drink this bottle to my health, I drink to yours --
(he drinks, the soldiers drink and pass the bottle)
They are not well mannered but they enjoy the drink -- you cannot have everything.
RAVAILLY
(entering)
Sir -- excuse me.
CANOLLES
Ah -- that me. Have you come to dine with me?
RAVAILLY
I am unable to have that honor, sir, I ate and I came back to --
CANOLLES
To keep me company? It's very kind of you.
RAVAILLY
(giving a sign to the soldiers to leave. They exit)
No, sir, I came to ask you if you are Catholic or Huguenot?
CANOLLES
What an idea! Why's that?
RAVAILLY
Here in the prison, we have only a Catholic chaplain. That will trouble you, if you are of another religion.
CANOLLES
In what would this trouble me?
(rising)
RAVAILLY
(embarrassed)
When to say your prayers.
CANOLLES
Oh rest easy, I won't think of that so late -- I only say my prayers in the morning.
RAVAILLY
So be it, sir, so be it.
(He solutes and leaves.)
CANOLLES
More and more solemn. Ah, that's it, but they are mistaken. Since the death of poor Richon, all those I see have the air of idiots or madmen -- I would give tomorrow's supper to see a reasonable fee.
THE VICOMTESS
(throwing herself on his neck)
Ah!
CANOLLES
Good! Another madman! Ah, why, Claire! You here! Oh, pardon, pardon me for not having recognized you.
THE VICOMTESS
Yet! Yet! Oh, my God -- how happy I am, thanks, thanks, my God for having been able to see him again.
CANOLLES
Again? Having seen me again? And you say this weeping. Eh! Why then can't you see me again?
THE VICOMTESS
Oh! Don't laugh, your gaiety makes me ill -- ! Don't laugh, I beg you! I have had so much trouble to come to you. If you knew to what lengths I went -- without Lenet, without this excellent friend who got me the permission to see you for half hour -- but let's speak of you, my friend. Is it really you I find -- it's indeed you?
CANOLLES
Why yes, it's really me.
THE VICOMTESS
Stop -- don't pretend this false joy -- it's no good. I know everything -- they didn't hide it from me.
CANOLLES
Ah! They didn't hide it from you?
THE VICOMTESS
They didn't know that I love you --
CANOLLES
My dear, I don't understand exactly --
THE VICOMTESS
Admit that you were expecting me, that you were angry because of silence, that you were accusing me already --
CANOLLES
I was waiting for you, tormented, unhappy, but I didn't accuse you of anything -- why would I have done that? "Something kept her" -- I told myself, "by some circumstance stronger than her will." The greatest misfortune to me is that our marriage will be deferred, put off a week -- two perhaps.
THE VICOMTESS
Are you talking seriously?
CANOLLES
Why, yes.
THE VICOMTESS
You weren't more frightened than that?
CANOLLES
Frightened? By what? Did I run some danger without suspecting? Ah, anything is possible.
THE VICOMTESS
The wretch! He didn't know.
CANOLLES
Ah -- oh -- something is wrong -- no, I didn't know -- I still don't know but as I am a man, as I am your friend -- you are going to tell me, right, Claire? Look, I beg you, speak.
THE VICOMTESS
You know that Richon is dead?
CANOLLES
Ah, that's it, yes, I know it. Ah, I understand my arrest, my interrogation, I understand the officer's offers of service. The silence of the soldiers, I understand your behavior, your joy at seeing me again, your tears, the shouts of the crowd going to the esplanade. Richon is dead, right -- and they are going to avenge Richon's death on me?
THE VICOMTESS
No, no -- my beloved, no poor friend of my heart, you will not be sacrificed dear victim! Oh! You were not mistaken. Yes, you were intended to perish, you've been close to death, my handsome fiance. But reassure yourself-- we can speak of joy, of a future. I saved your life and I am going to consecrate mine to you -- it won't be your blood which will pay for Richon's blood.
CANOLLES
Someone will die, you say? Oh, dear friend silence! Silence! This is impossible.
THE VICOMTESS
Yes, silence! The other one might hear us -- our joy would be a crime.
CANOLLES
Who will die? Who then?
RAVAILLY
(entering)
Madame, the half hour is up.
THE VICOMTESS
Already?
CANOLLES
Already!
THE VICOMTESS
(to Ravailly)
Yes, sir!
(to Canolles)
Look, instead of being so sad, rejoice with me. Tonight, in an hour perhaps you will leave the prison. The pardon has been signed, then without losing a minute, we will flee. This cursed town suffocates me. So laugh then. Goodbye. Oh, not goodbye -- till we meet again, till we meet again.
(She exits.)
CANOLLES
Ah, my dear Ravailly.
RAVAILLY
Now, sir, if it's not enough to be happy, you must be compassionate.
CANOLLES
Compassionate?
RAVAILLY
Yes, your neighbor, the other governor, he asks to see you.
CANOLLES
The other governor?
RAVAILLY
The governor who was taken like you -- the poor man is going to die.
CANOLLES
He wants to see me?
RAVAILLY
Do you consent to it?
CANOLLES
If I consent to it? Oh, I think so, indeed, poor unfortunate. I await him, I open my arms to him; I don't know him, but never mind.
RAVAILLY
Oh -- he knows you very well.
CANOLLES
Does he know he's been condemned?
RAVAILLY
I don't think so.
CANOLLES
Oh! Let us keep him in ignorance, my God! Go quickly -- bring him to me, sir. I beg you, go quickly.
RAVAILLY
I am going. Till we meet again.
CANOLLES
Return with him, and stay with us.
RAVAILLY
No, I return to my post. From 11 o'clock the jailers alone remain in control of all matters in the prison. Yours has been warned -- he knows your companion will be in your cell -- when the moment arrives he will come to take him -- so when you see him come --
CANOLLES
This is horrible!
RAVAILLY
Till we meet again, when you are free.
CANOLLES
Thanks.
(Ravailly exits)
My God -- don't let the wretch come to reproach me about my happiness!
CAUVIGNAC
(entering)
Much thanks, officer! It is Monsieur de Canolles who is there?
RAVAILLY
(behind the door)
Yes.
CANOLLES
His voice makes me ill.
CAUVIGNAC
Baron, you allow me!
CANOLLES
Eh! Sir, it's you?
CAUVIGNAC
You recognize me?
CANOLLES
By God! Do I recognize the man who twice caused me so much trouble -- first at Jaulnay -- then at Chantilly -- I should think I recognize you!
CAUVIGNAC
You are indeed very good, thanks! Well, what do you think of this precarious situation -- difficult eh? Haven't you seen from your cell, as I have seen from mine all these blockheads running to a certain place which must be the esplanade? You know the esplanade, my dear fellow, and you know what purpose it is used for?
CANOLLES
To pass in review, yes.
CAUVIGNAC
(aside)
Come on, another one who doesn't understand his position. He must be prepared a bit -- to soften the fall.
(aloud)
Sir, my dear sir, you look on things a little too cheerfully. Reviews, reviews, that's weak -- I think it's a question of something more -- a little execution, for example.
CANOLLES
Come now!
CAUVIGNAC
Ah, you are reassured? So much the better -- you don't have the reasons I have.
CANOLLES
To be afraid!
CAUVIGNAC
To be uneasy! Ah, don't boast too much about your affairs, it's not great looking -- go, but if I must say it yours is nothing to mine. And mine is terribly confused. Do you know who I am?
CANOLLES
That's a singular question. You're Captain Cauvignac, governor of --
CAUVIGNAC
Of Braune, yes -- for the moment, but I didn't always bear the name Cauvignac; I haven't always been governor of Braune.
CANOLLES
Ah -- what did you call yourself, when you didn't call yourself Cauvignac.
CAUVIGNAC
For example, one day when I didn't call myself Cauvignac, I called myself Baron de Canolles, like you.
CANOLLES
Huh?
CAUVIGNAC
Yes, I understand -- you are wondering if I am really in my right senses.
CANOLLES
My word, yes -- unless you can explain to me --
CAUVIGNAC
Eh well, a sole word -- my real name is Roland de Lartigues -- Nanon is my sister.
CANOLLES
You, the brother of Nanon? You? Ah, poor boy!
CAUVIGNAC
Well yes, poor boy, very poor boy -- for besides a host of little disagreements which resulted in a trial that brought me here, I have the disgrace to call myself Roland de Lartigues, and to be Nanon's brother.
CANOLLES
And what has become of Nanon, Monsieur de Lartigues -- what's she doing?
CAUVIGNAC
Oh, by god, she weeps -- not for me -- she unaware of my arrest, but over you -- whose fate she knew from the hour it happened.
CANOLLES
Relax, Lenet won't say that you are the brother of Nanon, Monsieur de la Rochefoucauld has no reason to receive you -- they don't know anything of all this.
CAUVIGNAC
So be it, but they will know one thing -- they will know, for example that it was I who gave to Monsieur Lenet a certain document signed by Monsieur d'Epernon and that this signature caused -- bah! Let's forget that, let's forget that.
CANOLLES
Look, Monsieur de Cauvignac -- courage!
CAUVIGNAC
Eh, by God, do you think I lack it you will see me at this. Famous moment when we make our tour of the esplanade. For me, one thing bothers me -- will we be shot, decapitated or hanged?
CANOLLES
What are you talking about? Men of the sword --
CAUVIGNAC
Well, wasn't Richon a man of the sword? They didn't prevent him from being hanged.
CANOLLES
Hanged! Richon! A soldier? Oh, my God!
CAUVIGNAC
You didn't know that? Judge the situation now. Yes, hanged! I was at Libourne when they tried this poor Richon. Well, trial, judgment, execution, lasted all of 10 minutes. We are already behind schedule.
CANOLLES
What's this? They're coming.
CAUVIGNAC
The devil.
CANOLLES
I asked for wine -- perhaps the jailor is bringing it.
CAUVIGNAC
Ah! It could still be that. If the jailers come with bottles, it will be all right -- but if he comes empty handed.
JAILOR
Which if you to is Baron de Canolles?
CANOLLES and CAUVIGNAC
Ah! The Devil!
CANOLLES
I've born that name for 30 years and it is sufficiently known so that I don't hesitate to admit it.
CAUVIGNAC
As for me, I've borne it for 3 hours, that's enough to make me very uneasy.
CANOLLES
I am Monsieur de Canolles.
JAILOR
You were governor of some place?
CANOLLES
Yes.
CAUVIGNAC
And I too, not counting that I am called Canolles like this gentleman. Ah, let us explain carefully to each other and without scorn -- what happened to Richon is enough without my causing another man's death.
JAILOR
(to Canolles)
So, Canolles is the name you bear now?
CANOLLES
Yes.
JAILOR
(to Cauvignac)
And you are also sometimes known as Canolles?
CAUVIGNAC
Alas, yes.
JAILOR
And you are both governors?
CANOLLES and CAUVIGNAC
Both of us!
JAILOR
Happily I have one last question to put to you, and this question will clarify everything.
CAUVIGNAC
Ah! Put your question.
JAILOR
Which of you two is the brother of Nanon de Lartigues?
CAUVIGNAC
(to Canolles)
Sir, I told you, that would be what they attack me for.
CANOLLES
Oh!
JAILOR
Well?
(The Vicomtess enters.)
CAUVIGNAC
And if I told you I was the brother of Mademoiselle de Lartigues -- what would you say to me?
JAILOR
I would say -- follow me.
CANOLLES
Plague! Thanks.
CANOLLES
Mademoiselle Nanon also calls me her brother.
JAILOR
Ah! Try to understand, gentlemen, the thing is worth the trouble. It is a question of life and death.
CANOLLES
All the more reason for me to assert my name -- de Canolles.
CAUVIGNAC
And I, sir, my title is the brother of Nanon.
CANOLLES
Still --
THE VICOMTESS
My friend! My friend!
JAILOR
Look, hurry up, gentlemen, I need to know what to do.
CAUVIGNAC
What a hurry you are in.
THE VICOMTESS
(to Canolles)
Sir! And I? And my life -- and all our future? And this pardon that I have, sir -- ? Oh, you don't love me then? But you cannot say you are the brother of this woman! Don't lie, sir, don't lie!
CAUVIGNAC
Come, come, I've done enough in my life that others have paid for to pay in my turn today.
CANOLLES
(aside)
The wretch!
THE VICOMTESS
Let me leave -- let this man be led off.
JAILOR
Come on, let's decide!
CAUVIGNAC
Hola, my friend, softly -- dear companion, I am determined on one point -- that that's that I go first.
JAILOR
Let's go, sir!
CAUVIGNAC
Patience you, you are tiring my good man. Dear brother -- dear brother-in-law, Madame, a thousand compliments -- ah Madame, this gentleman will do me the justice to say that it is not I who take you from him.
CANOLLES
Goodbye.
CAUVIGNAC
A word if you please.
CANOLLES
Speak.
CAUVIGNAC
Pardon, Madame.
(to Canolles)
Do you pray sometimes?
CANOLLES
Yes.
CAUVIGNAC
Well, when you pray, say a Pater and Ave for me.
(to jailor)
It is I who am the brother of Mademoiselle de Lartigues -- her true brother -- March, my good fellow.
(Exit Cauvignac and the jailor.)
THE VICOMTESS
As for us, let us leave, my friend, let us leave.
CANOLLES
Yes, let us leave.
(they enter)
What's this?
(La Rochefoucauld, Lenet, officers enter.)
THE VICOMTESS
(to La Rochefoucauld)
Sir, there's the order to release Monsieur de Canolles.
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
Very well, Madame the gentleman is free.
CANOLLES
Come my friend.
CANOLLES
We are leaving, gentlemen.
(bowing)
LENET
Go quickly.
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
Didn't they tell me another person was in this cell with Monsieur Canolles?
OFFICER
Yes, Milord.
LENET
(low to Canolles)
Leave now!
THE VICOMTESS
(to officers hedged about)
Allow us, gentlemen.
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
Excuse me, Madame.
THE VICOMTESS
What now, Duke?
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
I don't see the other prisoner.
LENET
They must have taken him to his cell in #3.
THE VICOMTESS
Sir, is there any purpose in my waiting if the Princess has signed the pardon for Monsieur de Canolles?
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
Yes, certainly not.
THE VICOMTESS
Well, here's the order -- do you recognize it?
CANOLLES
You can go, Madame, the Duke will accomplish the formalities.
LENET
(low)
Go! Go!
THE VICOMTESS
Oh, but come, come now!
OFFICER
No. 3 is empty, the prisoner is no longer there.
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
Ah! Ah! You see! Don't let anyone out, gentlemen!
THE VICOMTESS
Sir --
CANOLLES
(aside)
I understand everything. Nanon was watching over me, Nanon named me as her brother to Monsieur d'Epernon. Nanon, unaware of Cauvignac's arrest freed her brother -- I am dead.
THE VICOMTESS
I will pass! I will pass! I tell you! I have the order in the name of this gentleman -- I will pass.
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
Madame, that doesn't matter to me anymore; the Princess pardoned one of the prisoners, but she intends to punish the other -- the other one having disappeared.
THE VICOMTESS
Oh!
LENET
Monsieur Duke.
THE VICOMTESS
You would disobey Her Highness!
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
No, Madame, but I am going to inform her of what has happened -- I am going.
LENET
(low to Vicomtess)
Don't let him go.
THE VICOMTESS
(to Lenet)
Oh! No!
(to Duke)
Why you?
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
It's time, Madame, you then. Who knows the spirit of the Princess better than you?
LENET
(low to Vicomtess)
Don't go!
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
Well, are you going, Madam?
THE VICOMTESS
I won't leave this gentleman.
OFFICER
(to Canolles)
Monsieur de Canolles -- step away.
CANOLLES
(low)
I understand.
(aloud)
Listen, dear Clair, I have great confidence in the Duke, but I admit it, I have much more confidence in you -- what the Princess will refuse to another, she won't refuse to the Vicomtess de Cambes.
THE VICOMTESS
Is it you who tell me this?
CANOLLES
It's I who tell you this.
THE VICOMTESS
I am going to her. Lenet! Lenet! Swear you won't leave him.
LENET
I won't leave him. I swear it.
THE VICOMTESS
Thanks! I will return.
CANOLLES
Goodbye!
LENET
Embrace her now!
CANOLLES
(embracing her)
Claire!
THE VICOMTESS
Let me run to the Princess, let me --
(in the back)
I will return! I will return!
(She leaves.)
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
(to Canolles)
Sir, we are waiting for you.
CANOLLES
Me? But aren't you going to wait for the return of Mme de Cambes?
LA ROCHEFOUCAULD
You are allowed to separate from the woman you love; that is all that can be done for you.
CANOLLES
(to Lenet)
I understand. I won't see her again. When you told me to embrace her -- it was for the last time?
RAVAILLY
One would say he weeps!
CANOLLES
Pride alone and real course come to my aid! I weep over such a futile thing as life. Come on, how did I do at Fort St. Georges when a thousand deaths threatened me? I fought, I laughed.
(guards enter)
Well, today, as on that day, if I cannot fight at least nothing shall prevent me from laughing. Excuse me, gentlemen, I need a minute to accustom myself to death -- if it's too much, excuse me gentlemen for making you wait for me. Whenever you wish, I am waiting for you.
(He calls Lenet, takes his arm and leaves with him.)
(curtain)
The Esplanade - night.
(Nanon and Cortanvaux on the contrescarp, the executioner's helper eating at the foot of the gallows. Cauvignac and the jailor leaving by the covered way.)
NANON
Nothing yet! My friend, did you really deliver the letter to the King's Attorney himself?
CORTANVAUX
To him personally.
NANON
And he went to the prison right away?
CORTANVAUX
That very instant!
NANON
And he returned -- you are saying to reassure me?
CORTANVAUX
He returned telling me he answered for everything.
NANON
So, Monsieur Canolles, my brother, will be able to flee by the Postern gate?
CORTANVAUX
By the Postern gate.
NANON
On the side of the Esplanade?
CORTANVAUX
On the side of the Esplanade.
NANON
Which is right here, correct?
CORTANVAUX
Here the postern, here's the Esplanade.
NANON
Yes, it's true -- and these terrible machines of death.
(The guard on the Esplanade thinks he's heard talking -- approaching and looking about.)
CORTANVAUX
Silence, Madame! The guard has heard us -- and if he sees us --
SENTINEL
Hey! Down on the other side of the ditch -- is somebody there?
(Cortanvaux and Nanon hide and remain mute)
SENTINEL
My mistake.
(The Sentinel continues to patrol.)
CAUVIGNAC
(entering behind the jailor)
Eh! But one moment, friend! Where are you taking me?
JAILOR
Come!
CAUVIGNAC
Come! That's well said -- but one prefers to know where one is going.
JAILOR
Come, I tell you. We are there.
CAUVIGNAC
Where's that?
JAILOR
At the Postern gate.
CAUVIGNAC
The Postern gate?
JAILOR
The second --
CAUVIGNAC
What are you doing?
JAILOR
Extinguishing my lantern.
CAUVIGNAC
We won't be able to see anything.
JAILOR
Bah! And the stars?
CAUVIGNAC
What of the stars?
JAILOR
(opening the gate)
Yes!
CAUVIGNAC
But what is this! How dark it is! It seems to me to be like Acheron.
JAILOR
These are the moats of the city.
NANON
It seems to me I heard --
CORTANVAUX
The noise of the gate, right?
NANON
Hush.
(She looks over the side.)
CAUVIGNAC
The moats -- ah!
JAILOR
Do you know how to swim?
CAUVIGNAC
Yes -- no -- yes -- I mean why the devil do you ask me that?
JAILOR
Because, if you know how to swim, we won't be forced to wait for the boat which is stationed down there -- but that's a quarter of an hour lost, and during that time, they may notice your flight and recapture you.
CAUVIGNAC
Ah, indeed! Why I'm fleeing then. Why then, we are escaping!
JAILOR
By God! Of course we are escaping.
CAUVIGNAC
And where to?
JAILOR
Where you please.
CAUVIGNAC
Then I'm free?
JAILOR
Free as the air.
CAUVIGNAC
Ah!
(He jumps into the water.)
CORTANVAUX
I seem to see two shadows.
NANON
And I, I hear some voices.
CAUVIGNAC
(on the other side)
Ouf! there I am -- dear jailor of my heart, God will reward you.
NANON
Is it you my friend.
CAUVIGNAC
Really -- there's someone.
NANON
Is it you?
CAUVIGNAC
(low)
The voice of my sister!
(aloud)
Yes, it's me.
NANON
(to Cortanvaux)
Leave the wagons there and go ready the horses.
CORTANVAUX
Yes.
NANON
Oh, my God, I thank you, he is saved.
(recognizing her brother)
Cauvignac!
CAUVIGNAC
You weren't expecting me?
NANON
Wretch! Where is Monsieur de Canolles?
CAUVIGNAC
Why in prison, I should think.
NANON
No, no, not in prison for there he is. There he is.
(The people come forward pushing back the guards and place themselves so they can see the execution.)
NANON
Oh! Wretch that I am.
CAUVIGNAC
Well, for the first time, I've had any conscience, it must be admitted that the thing has turned out badly enough.
NANON
Canolles! Canolles!
CAUVIGNAC
Wait, perhaps all is not lost!
NANON
Oh!
SENTINEL
Who goes there?
CAUVIGNAC
Silence! Poor boy, it's he who will be hanged!
(Canolles, Lenet, the officer, soldiers and people come in.)
CANOLLES
Oh! I would indeed like to see her yet one more time.
LENET
Do you wish that I go find her? Do you want me to fetch her?
CANOLLES
Oh! Yes! Yes!
LENET
Well, I will rush together; but you will kill her.
CANOLLES
No, stay!
RAVAILLY
(to Canolles)
What are you saying, sir?
CANOLLES
I said that I didn't think it was so far from the prison to the Esplanade.
LENET
Alas, don't complain sir, for you have arrived.
CANOLLES
That's well.
(he takes off his cloak and gives it to a soldier and he embraces Lenet)
Let's go.
(going up the first step, then turning his head, he shouts)
What's that I see there -- ? What is that lugubrious and shapeless thing that I can hardly distinguish in the night?
(to soldiers who have climbed up ahead of him)
Light up the way -- why, I'm not mistaken, it's the hideous silhouette of a gibbet. But that's not what I have the right to expect -- that, gentlemen! It's not a scaffold, it's not an ax, it's the not the block.
(His eyes turn toward Ravailly.)
RAVAILLY
Alas, sir.
CANOLLES
Where is the Duke de la Rochefoucauld? I wish to speak to the Duke de la Rochefoucauld.
LENET
What do you wish to tell him?
CANOLLES
I wish to tell him I am a gentleman, everyone knows it -- the executioner himself is not unaware of it -- I am a gentleman and as such, I have the right to have my head chopped off.
RAVAILLY
Alas, sir, the King hung Richon. And it's a question of reprisals.
CANOLLES
I don't ask for mercy, I demand justice! Ah -- you are not content simply to kill me, you intend my death to be infamous! There are people who love me, gentleman, well, in the heart of these people, you will forever imprint the ignoble memory of my death on a gibbet -- ah, not a weapon --
(going to Ravailly)
Sir, you are an officer, you are a gentleman, sir, for mercy, for pity, a blow of the sword, a musket ball, whatever you like so long as it is something that kills! Ah, I don't want to die the death of a criminal, of murderers, of cowards -- ! I don't want that! I don't want that!
(He reaches the side of the people. Lenet comes near him.
NANON
(to the jailor)
My friend, my fortune to get me back to the down -- escort me.
CAUVIGNAC
What do you want to do?
NANON
They detest me. They hate me, they curse me -- I am going to offer myself in his place. To have me, they will let him go.
CAUVIGNAC
Sister! Sister!
CANOLLES
My friend, my friends, a knife, a knife, -- throw me a knife -- from mercy, for pity.
THE VICOMTESS
(in the distance)
Let me see him at least before he dies.
(Canolles and the Vicomtess throw themselves in each other's arms.)
BOTH
Oh!
NANON
My God, save him, do it for her!
(The executioner approaches and touches Canolles' shoulder.)
CANOLLES
That's all right. I am ready -- do your office.
NANON
A look at me! A single look.
CAUVIGNAC
(to Cortanvaux)
Hold that woman.
(taking a carbine behind a tree)
Monsieur de Canolles! Monsieur de Canolles!
CANOLLES
(stopping)
I understand.
(He thrusts his chest forward. Cauvignac fires. Canolles totters and falls, saying)
Thanks! Claire! Claire!
THE VICOMTESS
Oh!
(She hurls herself on his body.)
NANON
Happier than I even to the end.
(curtain)