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Act I
Act I.A Representation at the Hotel de Bourgogne. The hall of the Hotel de Bourgogne, in 1640. A sort of tennis-court arranged and decorated for a theatrical performance. The hall is oblong and seen obliquely, so that one of its sides forms the back of the right foreground, and meeting the left background makes an angle with the stage, which is partly visible. On both sides of the stage are benches. The curtain is composed of two tapestries which can be drawn aside. Above a harlequin’s mantle are the royal arms. There are broad steps from the stage to the hall; on either side of these steps are the places for the violinists. Footlights. Two rows, one over the other, of side galleries: the highest divided into boxes. No seats in the pit of the hall, which is the real stage of the theater; at the back of the pit, i.e., on the right foreground, some benches forming steps, and underneath, a staircase which leads to the upper seats. An improvised buffet ornamented with little lusters, vases, glasses, plates of tarts, cakes, bottles, etc. The entrance to the theater is in the center of the background, under the gallery of the boxes. A large door, half open to let in the spectators. On the panels of this door, in different corners, and over the buffet, red placards bearing the words, ‘La Clorise.’ At the rising of the curtain the hall is in semi-darkness, and still empty. The lusters are lowered in the middle of the pit ready to be lighted. Act 1.I.The public, arriving by degrees. Troopers, burghers, lackeys, pages, a pickpocket, the doorkeeper, etc., followed by the marquises. Cuigy, Brissaille, the buffet-girl, the violinists, etc. A confusion of loud voices is heard outside the door. A trooper enters hastily. THE DOORKEEPER [following him]: THE TROOPER I enter gratis. THE DOORKEEPER Why? THE TROOPER Why? I am of the King’s Household Cavalry, ’faith! THE DOORKEEPER [to another trooper who enters] And you? SECOND TROOPER I pay nothing. THE DOORKEEPER How so? SECOND TROOPER I am a musketeer. FIRST TROOPER [to the second] They fence with the foils they have brought. A LACKEY [entering] Pst. . .Flanquin. . .! ANOTHER [already there] Champagne?. . . THE FIRST [showing him cards and dice which he takes from his
doublet] THE SECOND [doing the same] Good; I am with you, villain! FIRST LACKEY [taking from his pocket a candle-end, which he
lights, and sticks on the floor] A GUARDSMAN [to a shop-girl who advances] He takes her round the waist. ONE OF THE FENCERS [receiving a thrust] A hit! ONE OF THE CARD-PLAYERS Clubs! THE GUARDSMAN [following the girl] A kiss! THE SHOP-GIRL [struggling to free herself] They’re looking! THE GUARDSMAN [drawing her to a dark corner] No fear! No one can see! A MAN [sitting on the ground with others, who have brought
their provisions] A BURGHER [conducting his son] Let us sit here, son. A CARD-PLAYER Triple ace! A MAN [taking a bottle from under his cloak, THE BURGHER [to his son] THE GUARDSMAN [behind him, still teasing the shop-girl] Come, one kiss! THE BURGHER [hurriedly pulling his son away] THE YOUNG MAN Ay, and Corneille! A TROOP OF PAGES [hand-in-hand, enter dancing the farandole, and singing] Tra’ a la, la, la, la, la, la, la, lere. . . THE DOORKEEPER [sternly, to the pages] You pages there, none of your tricks!. . . FIRST PAGE [with an air of wounded dignity]
Oh, sir!—such a suspicion!. . . THE SECOND Ay, and a fish-hook with it. FIRST PAGE We can angle for wigs, then, up there i’ th’ gallery. A PICKPOCKET [gathering about him some evil-looking
youths] SECOND PAGE [calling up to others in the top galleries] THIRD PAGE [from above] Ay, have we, and peas withal! He blows, and peppers them with peas. THE YOUNG MAN [to his father] What piece do they give us? THE BURGHER ‘Clorise.’ THE YOUNG MAN Who may the author be? THE BURGHER Master Balthazar Baro. It is a play!. . . He goes arm-in-arm with his son. THE PICKPOCKET [to his pupils] Have a care, above all, of the lace knee-ruffles—cut them off! A SPECTATOR [to another, showing him a corner in the gallery] I was up there, the first night of the ‘Cid.’ THE PICKPOCKET [making with his fingers the gesture of filching] Thus for watches— THE BURGHER [coming down again with his son] Ah! You shall presently see some renowned actors. . . THE PICKPOCKET [making the gestures of one who pulls something stealthily, with little jerks] Thus for handkerchiefs— THE BURGHER Montfleury. . . SOME ONE [shouting from the upper gallery] Light up, below there! THE BURGHER . . .Bellerose, L’Epy, La Beaupre, Jodelet! A PAGE [in the pit] Here comes the buffet-girl! THE BUFFET-GIRL [taking her place behind the buffet] Oranges, milk, raspberry-water, cedar bitters! A hubbub outside the door is heard. A FALSETTO VOICE Make place, brutes! A LACKEY [astonished] The Marquises!—in the pit?. . . ANOTHER LACKEY Oh! only for a minute or two! Enter a band of young marquises. A MARQUIS [seeing that the hall is half empty] What now! So we make our entrance like a pack of woolen-drapers! Peaceably, without disturbing the folk, or treading on their toes!—Oh, fie! Fie! [Recognizing some other gentlemen who have entered a little before him] Cuigy! Brissaille! Greetings and embraces. CUIGY True to our word!. . .Troth, we are here before the candles are lit. THE MARQUIS Ay, indeed! Enough! I am of an ill humor. ANOTHER Nay, nay, Marquis! see, for your consolation, they are coming to light up! ALL THE AUDIENCE [welcoming the entrance of the lighter] Ah!. . . They form in groups round the lusters as they are lit. Some people have taken their seats in the galleries. Ligniere, a distinguished-looking roue, with disordered shirt-front arm-in-arm with christian de Neuvillette. Christian, who is dressed elegantly, but rather behind the fashion, seems preoccupied, and keeps looking at the boxes. Act 1.II.The same. Christian, Ligniere, then Ragueneau and Le Bret. CUIGY Ligniere! BRISSAILLE [laughing] Not drunk as yet? LIGNIERE [aside to Christian]
I may introduce you? Bows. THE AUDIENCE [applauding as the first luster is lighted and drawn up] Ah! CUIGY [to Brissaille, looking at Christian] ’Tis a pretty fellow! FIRST MARQUIS [who has overheard] Pooh! LIGNIERE [introducing them to Christian] My lords De Cuigy. De Brissaille. . . CHRISTIAN [bowing] Delighted!. . . FIRST MARQUIS [to second] He is not ill to look at, but certes, he is not costumed in the latest mode. LIGNIERE [to Cuigy] This gentleman comes from Touraine. CHRISTIAN
Yes, I have scarce been twenty days in Paris; tomorrow I join
the Guards, in FIRST MARQUIS [watching the people who are coming into the boxes] There is the wife of the Chief-Justice. THE BUFFET-GIRL Oranges, milk. . . THE VIOLINISTS [tuning up] La—la— CUIGY [to Christian, pointing to the hall, which is filling fast] ’Tis crowded. CHRISTIAN Yes, indeed. FIRST MARQUIS All the great world! They recognize and name the different elegantly dressed ladies who enter the boxes, bowing low to them. The ladies send smiles in answer. SECOND MARQUIS CUIGY Madame de Bois-Dauphin. FIRST MARQUIS Adored by us all! BRISSAILLE Madame de Chavigny. . . SECOND MARQUIS Who sports with our poor hearts!. . . LIGNIERE Ha! so Monsieur de Corneille has come back from Rouen! THE YOUNG MAN [to his father] Is the Academy here? THE BURGHER
Oh, ay, I see several of them. There is Boudu, Boissat, FIRST MARQUIS
Attention! Here come our precieuses; Barthenoide, Urimedonte,
Cassandace, SECOND MARQUIS Ah! How exquisite their fancy names are! Do you know them all, Marquis? FIRST MARQUIS Ay, Marquis, I do, every one! LIGNIERE [drawing Christian aside]
Friend, I but came here to give you pleasure. The lady comes
not. I will CHRISTIAN [persuasively]
No, no! You, who are ballad-maker to Court and City alike, can
tell me THE FIRST VIOLIN [striking his bow on the desk] Gentlemen violinists! He raises his bow. THE BUFFET-GIRL Macaroons, lemon-drink. . . The violins begin to play. CHRISTIAN
Ah! I fear me she is coquettish, and over nice and
fastidious! LIGNIERE [making as if to go] I must go. CHRISTIAN [detaining him] Nay, stay. LIGNIERE I cannot. D’Assoucy waits me at the tavern, and here one dies of thirst. THE BUFFET-GIRL [passing before him with a tray] Orange drink? LIGNIERE Ugh! THE BUFFET-GIRL Milk? LIGNIERE Pah! THE BUFFET-GIRL Rivesalte? LIGNIERE
Stay. He sits by the buffet; the girl pours some out for him. CRIES [from all the audience, at the entrance of a plump little man, joyously excited] Ah! Ragueneau! LIGNIERE [to Christian] ’Tis the famous tavern-keeper Ragueneau. RAGUENEAU [dressed in the Sunday clothes of a pastry-cook, going up quickly to Ligniere] Sir, have you seen Monsieur de Cyrano? LIGNIERE [introducing him to Christian] The pastry-cook of the actors and the poets! RAGUENEAU [overcome] You do me too great honor. . . LIGNIERE Nay, hold your peace, Maecenas that you are! RAGUENEAU True, these gentlemen employ me. . . LIGNIERE
On credit! RAGUENEAU So they tell me. LIGNIERE —Mad after poetry! RAGUENEAU ’Tis true that, for a little ode. . . LIGNIERE You give a tart. . . RAGUENEAU Oh!—a tartlet! LIGNIERE
Brave fellow! He would fain fain excuse himself! RAGUENEAU Some little rolls! LIGNIERE [severely] They were milk-rolls! And as for the theater, which you love? RAGUENEAU Oh! to distraction! LIGNIERE
How pay you your tickets, ha?—with cakes. RAGUENEAU
Four custards, and fifteen cream-puffs. LIGNIERE Why so? RAGUENEAU Montfleury plays! LIGNIERE
Ay, ’tis true that that old wine-barrel is to take Phedon’s part
to-night; RAGUENEAU
How? Know you not? He has got a hot hate for Montfleury, and
so!—has LIGNIERE [drinking his fourth glass] Well? RAGUENEAU Montfleury will play! CUIGY He can not hinder that. RAGUENEAU Oh! oh! that I have come to see! FIRST MARQUIS Who is this Cyrano? CUIGY A fellow well skilled in all tricks of fence. SECOND MARQUIS Is he of noble birth? CUIGY
Ay, noble enough. He is a cadet in the Guards. LE BRET Ay, I am uneasy. . . CUIGY Is it not true that he is the strangest of men? LE BRET [tenderly] True, that he is the choicest of earthly beings! RAGUENEAU Poet! CUIGY Soldier! BRISSAILLE Philosopher! LE BRET Musician! LIGNIERE And of how fantastic a presence! RAGUENEAU
Marry, ’twould puzzle even our grim painter Philippe de
Champaigne to LE BRET [throwing back his head] He keeps it on—and cleaves in two any man who dares remark on it! RAGUENEAU [proudly] His sword—’tis one half of the Fates’ shears! FIRST MARQUIS [shrugging his shoulders] He will not come! RAGUENEAU I say he will! and I wager a fowl—a la Ragueneau. THE MARQUIS [laughing] Good! Murmurs of admiration in hall. Roxane has just appeared in her box. She seats herself in front, the duenna at the back. Christian, who is paying the buffet-girl, does not see her entrance. SECOND MARQUIS [with little cries of joy]: FIRST MARQUIS When one looks at her one thinks of a peach smiling at a strawberry! SECOND MARQUIS
And what freshness! A man approaching her too near might chance
to get a CHRISTIAN [raising his head, sees Roxane, and catches Ligniere by the arm] ’Tis she! LIGNIERE Ah! is it she? CHRISTIAN Ay, tell me quick—I am afraid. LIGNIERE [tasting his rivesalte in sips] Magdaleine Robin—Roxane, so called! A subtle wit—a precieuse. CHRISTIAN Woe is me! LIGNIERE Free. An orphan. The cousin of Cyrano, of whom we were now speaking. At this moment an elegant nobleman, with blue ribbon across his breast, enters the box, and talks with Roxane, standing. CHRISTIAN [starting]: LIGNIERE [who is becoming tipsy, winking at him]
Ha! ha! Count de Guiche. Enamored of her. But wedded to the
niece of He gets up staggering, and raises his glass, ready to sing. CHRISTIAN No. Good-night. LIGNIERE Where go you? CHRISTIAN To Monsieur de Valvert! LIGNIERE
Have a care! It is he who will kill you CHRISTIAN It is true! He stands looking at her. The group of pickpockets seeing him thus, head in air and open-mouthed, draw near to him. LIGNIERE He goes out, reeling. LE BRET [who has been all round the hall, coming back to Ragueneau reassured] No sign of Cyrano. RAGUENEAU [incredulously] All the same. . . LE BRET A hope is left to me—that he has not seen the playbill! THE AUDIENCE Begin, begin! Act 1.III.The same, all but Ligniere. De Guiche, Valvert, then Montfleury. A marquis [watching De Guiche, who comes down from Roxane’s box, and crosses the pit surrounded by obsequious noblemen, among them the Viscount de Valvert] He pays a fine court, your De Guiche! ANOTHER Faugh!. . .Another Gascon! THE FIRST
Ay, but the cold, supple Gascon—that is the stuff success is
made of! They go toward De Guiche. SECOND MARQUIS
What fine ribbons! How call you the color, Count de Guiche?
‘Kiss me, my DE GUICHE ’Tis the color called ‘Sick Spaniard.’ FIRST MARQUIS
’Faith! The color speaks truth, for, thanks to your valor,
things will soon DE GUICHE
I go on the stage! Will you come? CHRISTIAN [who is watching and listening, starts on hearing
this name]
The Viscount! Ah! I will throw full in his face my. . . THE PICKPOCKET Oh! CHRISTIAN [holding him tightly] I was looking for a glove. THE PICKPOCKET [smiling piteously]
And you find a hand. CHRISTIAN [still holding him] What is it? THE PICKPOCKET Ligniere. . .he who has just left you. . . CHRISTIAN [same play] Well? THE PICKPOCKET
His life is in peril. A song writ by him has given offense in
high places— CHRISTIAN A hundred men! By whom posted? THE PICKPOCKET I may not say—a secret. . . CHRISTIAN [shrugging his shoulders] Oh! THE PICKPOCKET [with great dignity] . . .Of the profession. CHRISTIAN Where are they posted? THE PICKPOCKET At the Porte de Nesle. On his way homeward. Warn him. CHRISTIAN [letting go of his wrists] But where can I find him? THE PICKPOCKET
Run round to all the taverns—The Golden Wine Press, the Pine
Cone, The Belt CHRISTIAN
Good—I fly! Ah, the scoundrels! A hundred men ’gainst one! He hurries out. De Guiche, the viscount, the marquises, have all disappeared behind the curtain to take their places on the benches placed on the stage. The pit is quite full; the galleries and boxes are also crowded. THE AUDIENCE A BURGHER [whose wig is drawn up on the end of a string by a page in the upper gallery] My wig! CRIES OF DELIGHT He is bald! Bravo, pages—ha! ha! ha!. . . THE BURGHER [furious, shaking his fist] Young villain! LAUGHTER AND CRIES [beginning very loud, and dying gradually away] Ha! ha! ha! ha! ha! ha! Total silence. LE BRET [astonished]
What means this sudden silence?. . . THE SPECTATOR I have just heard it on good authority. MURMURS [spreading through the hall]
Hush! Is it he? No! Ay, I say! A PAGE The devil! We shall have to behave ourselves. . . A knock is heard upon the stage. Every one is motionless. A pause. THE VOICE OF A MARQUIS [in the silence, behind the curtain] Snuff that candle! ANOTHER MARQUIS [putting his head through the opening in the curtain] A chair! A chair is passed from hand to hand, over the heads of the spectators. The marquis takes it and disappears, after blowing some kisses to the boxes. A SPECTATOR Silence! Three knocks are heard on the stage. The curtain opens in the centre Tableau. The marquises in insolent attitudes seated on each side of the stage. The scene represents a pastoral landscape. Four little lusters light the stage; the violins play softly. LE BRET
[in a low voice to Ragueneau]: RAGUENEAU [also in a low voice] Ay, ’tis he who begins. LE BRET Cyrano is not here. RAGUENEAU I have lost my wager. LE BRET ’Tis all the better! An air on the drone-pipes is heard, and Montfleury enters, enormously stout, in an Arcadian shepherd’s dress, a hat wreathed with roses drooping over one ear, blowing into a ribboned drone pipe. THE PIT [applauding]: MONTFLEURY [after bowing low, begins the part of Phedon]
‘Heureux qui loin des cours, dans un lieu solitaire, A VOICE [from the middle of the pit] Villain! Did I not forbid you to show your face here for month? General stupor. Every one turns round. Murmurs. DIFFERENT VOICES Hey?—What?—What is’t?. . . The people stand up in the boxes to look. CUIGY ’Tis he! LE BRET [terrified] Cyrano! THE VOICE King of clowns! Leave the stage this instant! ALL THE AUDIENCE [indignantly] Oh! MONTFLEURY But. . . THE VOICE Do you dare defy me? DIFFERENT VOICES [from the pit and the boxes] Peace! Enough!—Play on, Montfleury—fear nothing! MONTFLEURY [in a trembling voice] ‘Heureux qui loin des cours, dans un lieu sol—’ THE VOICE [more fiercely] Well! Chief of all the blackguards, must I come and give you a taste of my cane? A hand holding a cane starts up over the heads of the spectators. MONTFLEURY [in a voice that trembles more and more] ‘Heureux qui. . .’ The cane is shaken. THE VOICE Off the stage! THE PIT Oh! MONTFLEURY [choking] ‘Heureux qui loin des cours. . .’ CYRANO [appearing suddenly in the pit, standing on a chair, his arms crossed, his beaver cocked fiercely, his mustache bristling, his nose terrible to see] Ah! I shall be angry in a minute!. . . Sensation. Act 1.IV.The same. Cyrano, then Bellerose, Jodelet. MONTFLEURY [to the marquises] Come to my help, my lords! A MARQUIS [carelessly] Go on! Go on! CYRANO
Fat man, take warning! If you go on, I THE MARQUIS Have done! CYRANO
And if these lords hold not their tongue ALL THE MARQUISES [rising] Enough!. . .Montfleury. . . CYRANO
If he goes not quick A VOICE But. . . CYRANO Out he goes! ANOTHER VOICE Yet. . . CYRANO
Is he not gone yet? MONTFLEURY [trying to be dignified] You outrage Thalia in insulting me! CYRANO [very politely]
If that Muse, Sir, who knows you not at all, THE PIT Montfleury! Montfleury! Come—Baro’s play! CYRANO [to those who are calling out]
I pray you have a care! If you go on The circle round him widens. THE CROWD [drawing back] Take care! CYRANO [to Montfleury] Leave the stage! THE CROWD [coming near and grumbling] Oh!— CYRANO Did some one speak? They draw back again. A VOICE [singing at the back]
Monsieur de Cyrano ALL THE PIT [singing] ‘La Clorise!’ ‘La Clorise!’. . . CYRANO
Let me but hear once more that foolish rhyme, A BURGHER Oh! Samson? CYRANO Yes Samson! Will you lend your jawbone, Sir? A LADY [in the boxes] Outrageous! A LORD Scandalous! A BURGHER ’Tis most annoying! A PAGE Fair good sport! THE PIT Kss!—Montfleury. . .Cyrano! CYRANO Silence! THE PIT [wildly excited] Ho-o-o-o-h! Quack! Cock-a-doodle-doo! CYRANO I order— A PAGE Miow! CYRANO
I order silence, all! MONTFLEURY I. . . CYRANO [leaves his chair, and settles himself in the middle of the circle which has formed] I will clap my hands thrice, thus—full moon! At the third clap, eclipse yourself! THE PIT [amused] Ah! CYRANO [clapping his hands] One! MONTFLEURY I. . . A VOICE [in the boxes] Stay! THE PIT He stays. . .he goes. . .he stays. . . MONTFLEURY I think. . .Gentlemen,. . . CYRANO Two! MONTFLEURY I think ’twere wisest. . . CYRANO Three! Montfleury disappears as through a trap. Tempest of laughs, whistling cries, etc. THE WHOLE HOUSE Coward. . .come back! CYRANO [delighted, sits back in his chair, arms crossed] Come back an if you dare! A BURGHER Call for the orator! Bellerose comes forward and bows. THE BOXES Ah! here’s Bellerose! BELLEROSE [elegantly] My noble lords. . . THE PIT No! no! Jodelet! JODELET [advancing, speaking through his nose] Calves! THE PIT Ah! bravo! good! go on! JODELET
No bravos, Sirs! THE PIT Coward! JODELET . . .was obliged to go. THE PIT Come back! SOME No! OTHERS Yes! A YOUNG MAN [to Cyrano]
But pray, Sir, for what reason, say, CYRANO [graciously, still seated]
Youthful gander, know THE OLD BURGHER [behind him]
Shameful! You deprive us CYRANO [turning his chair toward the burgher,
respectfully]
Old mule! THE PRECIEUSES [in the boxes]
Our Baro!— CYRANO [turning his chair toward the boxes gallantly]
Fairest ones, BELLEROSE We must give back the entrance fees! CYRANO [turning his chair toward the stage]
Bellerose, THE HOUSE [dazzled] Ah! Oh! JODELET [catching the purse dexterously and weighing it]
At this price, you’ve authority THE PIT Ho!. . .Ho! Ho!. . . JODELET E’en if you chase us in a pack!. . . BELLEROSE Clear out the hall!. . . JODELET Get you all gone at once! The people begin to go out, while Cyrano looks on with satisfaction. But the crowd soon stop on hearing the following scene, and remain where they are. The women, who, with their mantles on, are already standing up in the boxes, stop to listen, and finally reseat themselves. LE BRET [to Cyrano]:’Tis mad!. . . A BORE [coming up to Cyrano]
The actor Montfleury! ’Tis shameful! CYRANO No! THE BORE No patron?. . . CYRANO None! THE BORE What! no great lord to shield you with his name? CYRANO [irritated]
No, I have told you twice! Must I repeat? THE BORE But you must leave the town? CYRANO Well, that depends! THE BORE The Duke has a long arm! CYRANO
But not so long THE BORE You think not to contend? CYRANO ’Tis my idea! THE BORE But. . . CYRANO Show your heels! now! THE BORE But I. . . CYRANO Or tell me why you stare so at my nose! THE BORE [staggered] I. . . CYRANO [walking straight up to him] Well, what is there strange? THE BORE [drawing back] Your Grace mistakes! CYRANO How now? Is’t soft and dangling, like a trunk?. . . THE BORE [same play] I never. . . CYRANO Is it crook’d, like an owl’s beak? THE BORE I. . . CYRANO Do you see a wart upon the tip? THE BORE Nay. . . CYRANO
Or a fly, that takes the air there? What THE BORE Oh. . . CYRANO What do you see? THE BORE But I was careful not to look—knew better. CYRANO And why not look at it, an if you please? THE BORE I was. . . CYRANO Oh! it disgusts you! THE BORE Sir! CYRANO
Its hue THE BORE Sir! CYRANO Or its shape? THE BORE No, on the contrary!. . . CYRANO
Why then that air THE BORE [stammering] No, small, quite small—minute! CYRANO
Minute! What now? THE BORE Heaven help me! CYRANO
’Tis enormous! He cuffs him. THE BORE Aie! CYRANO
—of pride, of aspiration, THE BORE [running away] Help! Call the Guard! CYRANO
Take notice, boobies all, DE GUICHE [who, with the marquises, has come down from the stage] But he becomes a nuisance! THE VISCOUNT DE VALVERT [shrugging his shoulders] Swaggerer! DE GUICHE Will no one put him down?. . . THE VISCOUNT
No one? But wait! CYRANO [gravely] Very! THE VISCOUNT [laughing] Ha! CYRANO [imperturbably] Is that all?. . . THE VISCOUNT What do you mean? CYRANO
Ah no! young blade! That was a trifle short! DE GUICHE [trying to draw away the dismayed viscount] Come away, Viscount! THE VISCOUNT [choking with rage]
Hear his arrogance! CYRANO
True; all my elegances are within. THE VISCOUNT But, Sir. . . CYRANO
I wear no gloves? And what of that? THE VISCOUNT Base scoundrel! Rascally flat-footed lout! CYRANO [taking off his hat, and bowing as if the viscount had
introduced himself]
Ah?. . .and I, Cyrano Savinien Laughter. THE VISCOUNT [angrily] Buffoon! CYRANO [calling out as if he had been seized with the cramp] Aie! Aie! THE VISCOUNT [who was going away, turns back] What on earth is the fellow saying now? CYRANO [with grimaces of pain]
It must be moved—it’s getting stiff, I vow, THE VISCOUNT What ails you? CYRANO The cramp! cramp in my sword! THE VISCOUNT [drawing his sword] Good! CYRANO You shall feel a charming little stroke! THE VISCOUNT [contemptuously] Poet!. . . CYRANO
Ay, poet, Sir! In proof of which, THE VISCOUNT A ballade? CYRANO Belike you know not what a ballade is. THE VISCOUNT But. . . CYRANO [reciting, as if repeating a lesson]
Know then that the ballade should contain THE VISCOUNT [stamping] Oh! CYRANO [still reciting]
And an envoi THE VISCOUNT You. . . CYRANO
I’ll make one while we fight; THE VISCOUNT No! CYRANO
No? THE VISCOUNT What may that be, an if you please? CYRANO The title. THE HOUSE [in great excitement] Give room!—Good sport!—Make place!—Fair play!—No noise! Tableau. A circle of curious spectators in the pit; the marquises and officers mingled with the common people; the pages climbing on each other’s shoulders to see better. All the women standing up in the boxes. To the right, De Guiche and his retinue. Left, Le Bret, Ragueneau, Cyrano, etc. CYRANO [shutting his eyes for a second]: Acclamations. Applause in the boxes. Flowers and handkerchiefs are thrown down. The officers surround Cyrano, congratulating him. Ragueneau dances for joy. Le Bret is happy, but anxious. The viscount’s friends hold him up and bear him away. THE CROWD [with one long shout]: A TROOPER ’Tis superb! A WOMAN A pretty stroke! RAGUENEAU A marvel! A MARQUIS A novelty! LE BRET O madman! THE CROWD [presses round Cyrano. Chorus of]
Compliments! A WOMAN’S VOICE There is a hero for you!. . . A MUSKETEER [advancing to Cyrano with outstretched hand]
Sir, permit; He goes away. CYRANO [to Cuigy] Who is that gentleman? CUIGY Why—D’Artagnan! LE BRET [to Cyrano, taking his arm] A word with you!. . . CYRANO
Wait; let the rabble go!. . . BELLEROSE [respectfully] Without doubt! Cries are heard outside. JODELET [who has looked out] They hoot Montfleury! BELLEROSE [solemnly]
Sic transit!. . . Jodelet and Bellerose go out, bowing low to Cyrano. THE PORTER [to Cyrano] You do not dine, Sir? CYRANO No. The porter goes out. LE BRET Because? CYRANO [proudly]
Because. . . LE BRET [with the action of throwing a bag] How! The bag of crowns?. . . CYRANO Paternal bounty, in a day, thou’rt sped! LE BRET How live the next month?. . . CYRANO I have nothing left. LE BRET Folly! CYRANO But what a graceful action! Think! THE BUFFET-GIRL [coughing, behind her counter]
Hum! CYRANO [taking off his hat]
Gentle child, He gives back the other half. LE BRET What foolery! THE BUFFET-GIRL Take something else! CYRANO I take your hand to kiss. He kisses her hand as though she were a princess. THE BUFFET-GIRL
Thank you, kind Sir! She goes out. Act 1.V.Cyrano, Le Bret. CYRANO [to Le Bret]
Now talk—I listen. LE BRET
These fops, would-be belligerent, CYRANO [finishing his macaroon] Enormous! LE BRET The Cardinal. . . CYRANO [radiant] The Cardinal—was there? LE BRET Must have thought it. . . CYRANO Original, i’ faith! LE BRET But. . . CYRANO
He’s an author. ’Twill not fail to please him LE BRET You make too many enemies by far! CYRANO [eating his grapes] How many think you I have made to-night? LE BRET Forty, no less, not counting ladies. CYRANO Count! LE BRET
Montfleury first, the bourgeois, then De Guiche, CYRANO Enough! I am o’erjoyed! LE BRET
But these strange ways, CYRANO
I in a labyrinth LE BRET Which? CYRANO
Oh! by far the simplest path. . . LE BRET [shrugging his shoulders]
So be it! But the motive of your hate CYRANO [rising]
This Silenus, LE BRET [stupefied] How now? What? Can it be. . .? CYRANO [laughing bitterly]
That I should love?. . . LE BRET And may I know?. . .You never said. . . CYRANO
Come now, bethink you!. . .The fond hope to be LE BRET The fairest?. . . CYRANO
Ay, the fairest of the world, LE BRET Who is this lady? CYRANO
She’s a danger mortal, LE BRET Sapristi! all is clear! CYRANO As spiderwebs! LE BRET Your cousin, Madeleine Robin? CYRANO Roxane! LE BRET
Well, but so much the better! Tell her so! CYRANO
Look well at me—then tell me, with what hope LE BRET [tenderly] My friend!. . . CYRANO
My friend, at times ’tis hard, ’tis bitter, LE BRET [taking his hand] You weep? CYRANO
No, never! Think, how vilely suited LE BRET Never be sad! What’s love?—a chance of Fortune! CYRANO [shaking his head]
Look I a Caesar to woo Cleopatra? LE BRET
Your courage and your wit!—The little maid CYRANO [impressed] True! LE BRET
Well, how then?. . .I saw Roxane herself CYRANO Pale? LE BRET
Her heart, her fancy, are already caught! CYRANO
That she may mock my face? THE PORTER [introducing some one to Cyrano] Sir, some one asks for you. . . CYRANO [seeing the duenna] God! her duenna! Act 1.VI.Cyrano, Le Bret, the duenna. THE DUENNA [with a low bow]
I was bid ask you where a certain lady CYRANO [overwhelmed] See me? THE DUENNA [courtesying] Ay, Sir! She has somewhat to tell. CYRANO Somewhat?. . . THE DUENNA [still courtesying] Ay, private matters! CYRANO [staggering] Ah, my God! THE DUENNA
To-morrow, at the early blush of dawn, CYRANO [leaning against Le Bret] My God! THE DUENNA After—what place for a few minutes’ speech? CYRANO [confused] Where? Ah!. . .but. . .Ah, my God!. . . THE DUENNA Say! CYRANO I reflect!. . . THE DUENNA Where? CYRANO At—the pastry-house of Ragueneau. THE DUENNA Where lodges he? CYRANO The Rue—God!—St. Honore! THE DUENNA [going] Good. Be you there. At seven. CYRANO Without fail. The duenna goes out. Act 1.VII.Cyrano, Le Bret. Then actors, actresses, Cuigy, Brissaille, Ligniere, the porter, the violinists. CYRANO [falling into Le Bret’s arms] A rendezvous. . .from her!. . . LE BRET You’re sad no more! CYRANO Ah! Let the world go burn! She knows I live! LE BRET Now you’ll be calm, I hope? CYRANO [beside himself for joy]
Calm? I now calm? For a few moments the shadows of the actors have been moving on the stage, whispers are heard—the rehearsal is beginning. The violinists are in their places. A VOICE FROM THE STAGE CYRANO [laughing] We go! He moves away. By the big door enter Cuigy, Brissaille, and some officers, holding up Ligniere, who is drunk. CUIGY Cyrano! CYRANO Well, what now? CUIGY
A lusty thrush CYRANO [recognizing him] Ligniere!. . .What has chanced? CUIGY He seeks you! BRISSAILLE He dare not go home! CYRANO Why not? LIGNIERE [in a husky voice, showing him a crumpled
letter]
CYRANO A hundred men? You’ll sleep in your own bed! LIGNIERE [frightened] But— CYRANO [in a terrible voice, showing him the lighted lantern
held by the porter, who is listening curiously]
CUIGY A hundred!. . . CYRANO Less, to-night—would be too few! The actors and actresses, in their costumes, have come down from the stage, and are listening. LE BRET But why embroil yourself? CYRANO Le Bret who scolds! LE BRET That worthless drunkard!— CYRANO [slapping Ligniere on the shoulder]
Wherefore? For this cause;— AN ACTRESS Indeed, that was a graceful thing! CYRANO Ay, was it not? THE ACTRESS [to the others] But why a hundred men ’gainst one poor rhymer? CYRANO
March! ANOTHER ACTRESS [jumping from the stage] Oh! I shall come and see! CYRANO Come, then! ANOTHER [jumping down—to an old actor] And you?. . . CYRANO
Come all—the Doctor, Isabel, Leander, ALL THE WOMEN [dancing for joy] Bravo!—a mantle, quick!—my hood! JODELET Come on! CYRANO
Play us a march, gentlemen of the band! ALL To the Porte de Nesle! CYRANO [standing on the threshold]
Ay, to the Porte de Nesle! He goes out. Ligniere staggers first after him, then the actresses on the officers’ arms—the actors. The procession starts to the sound of the violins and in the faint light of the candles. Curtain.Act II.The Poet’s Eating-House. Ragueneau’s cook and pastry-shop. A large kitchen at the corner of the Rue St. Honore and the Rue de l’Arbre Sec, which are seen in the background through the glass door, in the gray dawn. On the left, in the foreground, a counter, surmounted by a stand in forged iron, on which are hung geese, ducks, and water peacocks. In great china vases are tall bouquets of simple flowers, principally yellow sunflowers. On the same side, farther back, an immense open fireplace, in front of which, between monster firedogs, on each of which hangs a little saucepan; the roasts are dripping into the pans. On the right, foreground with door. Farther back, staircase leading to a little room under the roof, the entrance of which is visible through the open shutter. In this room a table is laid. A small Flemish luster is alight. It is a place for eating and drinking. A wooden gallery, continuing the staircase, apparently leads to other similar little rooms. In the middle of the shop an iron hoop is suspended from the ceiling by a string with which it can be drawn up and down, and big game is hung around it. The ovens in the darkness under the stairs give forth a red glow. The copper pans shine. The spits are turning. Heaps of food formed into pyramids. Hams suspended. It is the busy hour of the morning. Bustle and hurry of scullions, fat cooks, and diminutive apprentices, their caps profusely decorated with cock’s feathers and wings of guinea-fowl. On metal and wicker plates they are bringing in piles of cakes and tarts. Tables laden with rolls and dishes of food. Other tables surrounded with chairs are ready for the consumers. A small table in a corner covered with papers, at which Ragueneau is seated writing on the rising of the curtain. Act 2.I.Ragueneau, pastry-cooks, then Lise. Ragueneau is writing, with an inspired air, at a small table, and counting on his fingers. FIRST PASTRY-COOK [bringing in an elaborate fancy dish] Fruits in nougat! SECOND PASTRY-COOK [bringing another dish] Custard! THIRD PASTRY-COOK [bringing a roast, decorated with feathers] Peacock! FOURTH PASTRY-COOK [bringing a batch of cakes on a slab] Rissoles! FIFTH PASTRY-COOK [bringing a sort of pie-dish] Beef jelly! RAGUENEAU [ceasing to write, and raising his head]
Aurora’s silver rays begin to glint e’en now on the copper pans,
and thou, O THE COOK How much too short? RAGUENEAU Three feet. He passes on farther. THE COOK What means he? FIRST PASTRY-COOK [showing a dish to Ragueneau] The tart! SECOND PASTRY-COOK The pie! RAGUENEAU [before the fire]
My muse, retire, lest thy bright eyes be reddened by the fagot’s
blaze! ANOTHER APPRENTICE [also coming up with a tray covered by a
napkin]
Master, I bethought me erewhile of your tastes, and made this,
which will He uncovers the tray, and shows a large lyre made of pastry. RAGUENEAU [enchanted] A lyre! THE APPRENTICE ’Tis of brioche pastry. RAGUENEAU [touched] With conserved fruits. THE APPRENTICE The strings, see, are of sugar. RAGUENEAU [giving him a coin]
Go, drink my health! LISE ’Tis passing silly! She puts a pile of papers on the counter. RAGUENEAU
Bags? Good. I thank you. LISE [dryly]
And am I not free to turn at last to some use the sole thing
that your RAGUENEAU Groveling ant!. . .Insult not the divine grasshoppers, the sweet singers! LISE
Before you were the sworn comrade of all that crew, my friend,
you did not RAGUENEAU To turn fair verse to such a use! LISE ’Faith, ’tis all it’s good for. RAGUENEAU Pray then, madam, to what use would you degrade prose? Act 2.II.The same. Two children, who have just trotted into the shop. RAGUENEAU What would you, little ones? FIRST CHILD Three pies. RAGUENEAU [serving them] See, hot and well browned. SECOND CHILD If it please you, Sir, will you wrap them up for us? RAGUENEAU [aside, distressed]
Alas! one of my bags! Same play. LISE [impatiently] What are you dallying for? RAGUENEAU
Here! here! here LISE
By good luck he has made up his mind at last! She mounts on a chair, and begins to range plates on a dresser. RAGUENEAU [taking advantage of the moment she turns her back, calls back the children, who are already at the door] Hist! children!. . .render me back the sonnet to Phillis, and you shall have six pies instead of three. The children give him back the bag, seize the cakes quickly, and go out. RAGUENEAU [smoothing out the paper, begins to declaim] ‘Phillis!. . .’ On that sweet name a smear of butter! ‘Phillis!. . .’ Cyrano enters hurriedly. Act 2.III.Ragueneau, Lise, Cyrano, then the musketeer. CYRANO What’s o’clock? RAGUENEAU [bowing low] Six o’clock. CYRANO [with emotion] In one hour’s time! He paces up and down the shop. RAGUENEAU [following him] Bravo! I saw. . . CYRANO Well, what saw you, then? RAGUENEAU Your combat!. . . CYRANO Which? RAGUENEAU That in the Burgundy Hotel, ’faith! CYRANO [contemptuously] Ah!. . .the duel! RAGUENEAU [admiringly] Ay! the duel in verse!. . . LISE He can talk of naught else! CYRANO Well! Good! let be! RAGUENEAU [making passes with a spit that he catches up]
‘At the envoi’s end, I touch!. . .At the envoi’s end, I touch!’.
. .’Tis fine, fine! CYRANO What hour is it now, Ragueneau? RAGUENEAU [stopping short in the act of thrusting to look at
the clock]
Five minutes after six!. . .’I touch!’ LISE [to Cyrano, who, as he passes by the counter, has absently shaken hands with her] What’s wrong with your hand? CYRANO Naught; a slight cut. RAGUENEAU Have you been in some danger? CYRANO None in the world. LISE [shaking her finger at him] Methinks you speak not the truth in saying that! CYRANO
Did you see my nose quiver when I spoke? ’Faith, it must have
been a RAGUENEAU But ’tis impossible; my poets are coming. . . LISE [ironically] Oh, ay, for their first meal o’ the day! CYRANO
Prythee, take them aside when I shall make you sign to do so. .
.What’s RAGUENEAU Ten minutes after six. CYRANO [nervously seating himself at Ragueneau’s table, and
drawing some paper RAGUENEAU [giving him the one from behind his ear] Here—a swan’s quill. A MUSKETEER [with fierce mustache, enters, and in a stentorian voice] Good-day! Lise goes up to him quickly. CYRANO [turning round] Who’s that? RAGUENEAU ’Tis a friend of my wife—a terrible warrior—at least so says he himself. CYRANO [taking up the pen, and motioning Ragueneau away]
Hush! RAGUENEAU A quarter after six!. . . CYRANO [striking his breast]
Ay—a single word of all those here! here! But writing, ’tis
easier done. . He writes. Through the glass of the door the silhouettes of their figures move uncertainly and hesitatingly. Act 2.IV.Ragueneau, Lise, the musketeer. Cyrano at the little table writing. The poets, dressed in black, their stockings ungartered, and covered with mud. LISE [entering, to Ragueneau] Here they come, your mud-bespattered friends! FIRST POET [entering, to Ragueneau] Brother in art!. . . SECOND POET [to Ragueneau, shaking his hands] Dear brother! THIRD POET
High soaring eagle among pastry-cooks! FOURTH POET ’Tis at Phoebus’ own rays that thy roasts turn! FIFTH POET Apollo among master-cooks— RAGUENEAU [whom they surround and embrace] Ah! how quick a man feels at his ease with them!. . . FIRST POET We were stayed by the mob; they are crowded all round the Porte de Nesle!. . . SECOND POET
Eight bleeding brigand carcasses strew the pavements there—all
slit open CYRANO [raising his head a minute] Eight?. . .hold, methought seven. He goes on writing. RAGUENEAU [to Cyrano] Know you who might be the hero of the fray? CYRANO [carelessly] Not I. LISE [to the musketeer] And you? Know you? THE MUSKETEER [twirling his mustache] Maybe! CYRANO [writing a little way off:—he is heard murmuring a word from time to time] ‘I love thee!’ FIRST POET ’Twas one man, say they all, ay, swear to it, one man who, single-handed, put the whole band to the rout! SECOND POET ’Twas a strange sight!—pikes and cudgels strewed thick upon the ground. CYRANO [writing] . . .’Thine eyes’. . . THIRD POET And they were picking up hats all the way to the Quai d’Orfevres! FIRST POET Sapristi! but he must have been a ferocious. . . CYRANO [same play] . . .’Thy lips’. . . FIRST POET ’Twas a parlous fearsome giant that was the author of such exploits! CYRANO [same play] . . .’And when I see thee come, I faint for fear.’ SECOND POET [filching a cake] What hast rhymed of late, Ragueneau? CYRANO [same play]
. . .’Who worships thee’. . . RAGUENEAU [to second poet] I have put a recipe into verse. THIRD POET [seating himself by a plate of cream-puffs] Go to! Let us hear these verses! FOURTH POET [looking at a cake which he has taken] Its cap is all a’ one side! He makes one bite of the top. FIRST POET See how this gingerbread woos the famished rhymer with its almond eyes, and its eyebrows of angelica! He takes it. SECOND POET We listen. THIRD POET [squeezing a cream-puff gently] How it laughs! Till its very cream runs over! SECOND POET [biting a bit off the great lyre of pastry] This is the first time in my life that ever I drew any means of nourishing me from the lyre! RAGUENEAU [who has put himself ready for reciting, cleared his throat, settled his cap, struck an attitude] A recipe in verse!. . . SECOND POET [to first, nudging him] You are breakfasting? FIRST POET [to second] And you dining, methinks. RAGUENEAU
How almond tartlets are made. THE POETS [with mouths crammed full] Exquisite! Delicious! A POET [choking] Homph! They go up, eating. CYRANO [who has been watching, goes toward Ragueneau] Lulled by your voice, did you see how they were stuffing themselves? RAGUENEAU [in a low voice, smiling]
Oh, ay! I see well enough, but I never will seem to look,
fearing to CYRANO [clapping him on the shoulder]
Friend, I like you right well!. . . LISE [offended]
One haughty glance of my eye can conquer any man that should
dare venture CYRANO Pooh! Conquering eyes, methinks, are oft conquered eyes. LISE [choking with anger] But— CYRANO [incisively]
I like Ragueneau well, and so—mark me, Dame Lise—I permit not
that he be LISE But. . . CYRANO [who has raised his voice so as to be heard by the gallant] A word to the wise. . . He bows to the musketeer, and goes to the doorway to watch, after looking at the clock. LISE [to the musketeer, who has merely bowed in answer to Cyrano’s bow] How now? Is this your courage?. . .Why turn you not a jest on his nose? THE MUSKETEER On his nose?. . .ay, ay. . .his nose. He goes quickly farther away; Lise follows him. CYRANO [from the doorway, signing to Ragueneau to draw the poets away] Hist!. . . RAGUENEAU [showing them the door on the right] We shall be more private there. . . CYRANO [impatiently] Hist! Hist!. . . RAGUENEAU [drawing them farther] To read poetry, ’tis better here. . . FIRST POET [despairingly, with his mouth full] What! leave the cakes?. . . SECOND POET Never! Let’s take them with us! They all follow Ragueneau in procession, after sweeping all the cakes off the trays. Act 2.V.Cyrano, Roxane, the duenna. CYRANO
Ah! if I see but the faint glimmer of hope, then I draw out my
letter! THE DUENNA Four, Sir, an it like you. CYRANO Are you fond of sweet things? THE DUENNA Ay, I could eat myself sick on them! CYRANO [catching up some of the paper bags from the counter] Good. See you these two sonnets of Monsieur Beuserade. . . THE DUENNA Hey? CYRANO . . .Which I fill for you with cream cakes! THE DUENNA [changing her expression] Ha. CYRANO What say you to the cake they call a little puff? THE DUENNA If made with cream, Sir, I love them passing well. CYRANO
Here I plunge six for your eating into the bosom of a poem by
Saint Amant! THE DUENNA Ay, to the core of my heart! CYRANO [filling her arms with the bags] Pleasure me then; go eat them all in the street. THE DUENNA But. . . CYRANO [pushing her out] And come not back till the very last crumb be eaten! He shuts the door, comes down toward Roxane, and, uncovering, stands at a respectful distance from her. Act 2.VI.Cyrano, Roxane. CYRANO
Blessed be the moment when you condescend— ROXANE [who has unmasked]
To thank you first of all. That dandy count, CYRANO Ha, De Guiche? ROXANE [casting down her eyes] Sought to impose on me. . .for husband. . . CYRANO
Ay! Husband!—dupe-husband!. . .Husband a la mode! ROXANE
Confession next!. . .But, ere I make my shrift, CYRANO Ay, you would come each spring to Bergerac! ROXANE Mind you the reeds you cut to make your swords?. . . CYRANO While you wove corn-straw plaits for your dolls’ hair! ROXANE Those were the days of games!. . . CYRANO And blackberries!. . . ROXANE In those days you did everything I bid!. . . CYRANO Roxane, in her short frock, was Madeleine. . . ROXANE Was I fair then? CYRANO You were not ill to see! ROXANE
Ofttimes, with hands all bloody from a fall, CYRANO I got it—playing at the Porte de Nesle. ROXANE [seating herself by the table, and dipping her handkerchief in a glass of water] Give here! CYRANO [sitting by her] So soft! so gay maternal-sweet! ROXANE
And tell me, while I wipe away the blood, CYRANO Oh! A hundred—near. ROXANE Come, tell me! CYRANO
No, let be. But you, come tell ROXANE [keeping his hand]
Now, I dare! CYRANO Ah!. . . ROXANE But with one who knows not. CYRANO Ah!. . . ROXANE Not yet. CYRANO Ah!. . . ROXANE But who, if he knows not, soon shall learn. CYRANO Ah!. . . ROXANE
A poor youth who all this time has loved CYRANO Ah!. . . ROXANE
Leave your hand; why, it is fever-hot!— CYRANO Ah!. . . ROXANE [bandaging his hand with her handkerchief]
And to think of it! that he by chance— CYRANO Ah!. . . ROXANE [laughing] —Is cadet in your own company! CYRANO Ah!. . . ROXANE
On his brow he bears the genius-stamp; CYRANO [rising suddenly, very pale] Fair! ROXANE Why, what ails you? CYRANO
Nothing; ’tis. . . ROXANE
I love him; all is said. But you must know CYRANO How? You have never spoken? ROXANE Eyes can speak. CYRANO How know you then that he. . .? ROXANE
Oh! people talk CYRANO He is cadet? ROXANE In the Guards. CYRANO His name? ROXANE Baron Christian de Neuvillette. CYRANO How now?. . .He is not of the Guards! ROXANE
To-day CYRANO
Ah, how quick, THE DUENNA [opening the door] The cakes are eaten, Monsieur Bergerac! CYRANO
Then read the verses printed on the bags! ROXANE No, his bright locks, like D’Urfe’s heroes. . . CYRANO
Ah! ROXANE Ah no! I guess—I feel—his words are fair! CYRANO
All words are fair that lurk ’neath fair mustache! ROXANE [stamping her foot] Then bury me! CYRANO [after a pause]
Was it to tell me this you brought me here? ROXANE
Nay, but I felt a terror, here, in the heart, CYRANO
And we provoke ROXANE
Ah! Think how I CYRANO [between his teeth] Not causelessly! ROXANE
But when CYRANO
Good. ROXANE
Ah! CYRANO Ay, ay. ROXANE Then you will be his friend? CYRANO I swear! ROXANE And he shall fight no duels, promise! CYRANO None. ROXANE
You are kind, cousin! Now I must be gone. CYRANO Ay! Ay! ROXANE
A hundred men against you? Now, farewell.— CYRANO Ay, ay! ROXANE
Oh, bid him write! CYRANO [bowing to her] I have fought better since. She goes out. Cyrano stands motionless, with eyes on the ground. A silence. The door [right] opens. Ragueneau looks in. Act 2.VII.Cyrano, Ragueneau, poets, Carbon de Castel-Jaloux, the cadets, a crowd, then De Guiche. RAGUENEAU Can we come in? CYRANO [without stirring] Yes. . . Ragueneau signs to his friends, and they come in. At the same time, by door at back, enters Carbon de Castel-Jaloux, in Captain’s uniform. He makes gestures of surprise on seeing Cyrano. CARBON: CYRANO [raising his head] Captain!. . . CARBON [delightedly]
Our hero! We heard all! Thirty or more CYRANO [shrinking back] But. . . CARBON [trying to draw him away]
Come with me! CYRANO No! CARBON They’re drinking opposite, at The Bear’s Head. CYRANO I. . . CARBON [going to the door and calling across the street in a voice of thunder] He won’t come! The hero’s in the sulks! A VOICE [outside] Ah! Sandious! Tumult outside. Noise of boots and swords is heard approaching. CARBON [rubbing his hands] They are running ’cross the street! CADETS [entering] Mille dious! Capdedious! Pocapdedious! RAGUENEAU [drawing back startled] Gentlemen, are you all from Gascony? THE CADETS All! A CADET [to Cyrano] Bravo! CYRANO Baron! ANOTHER [shaking his hands] Vivat! CYRANO Baron! THIRD CADET
Come! CYRANO Baron! SEVERAL GASCONS
We’ll embrace CYRANO [not knowing whom to reply to] Baron!. . .Baron!. . .I beg. . . RAGUENEAU Are you all Barons, Sirs? THE CADETS Ay, every one! RAGUENEAU Is it true?. . . FIRST CADET
Ay—why, you could build a tower LE BRET [entering, and running up to Cyrano]
They’re looking for you! Here’s a crazy mob CYRANO [alarmed] What! Have you told them where to find me? LE BRET [rubbing his hands] Yes! A BURGHER [entering, followed by a group of men] Sir, all the Marais is a-coming here! Outside the street has filled with people. Chaises a porteurs and carriages have drawn up. LE BRET [in a low voice, smiling, to Cyrano] And Roxane? CYRANO [quickly] Hush! THE CROWD [calling outside] Cyrano!. . . A crowd rush into the shop, pushing one another. Acclamations. RAGUENEAU [standing on a table]
Lo! my shop PEOPLE [crowding round Cyrano] My friend!. . .my friend. . . Cyrano
Meseems that yesterday LE BRET [delighted] Success! A YOUNG MARQUIS [hurrying up with his hands held out]
My friend, CYRANO
Thou!. . .Marry!. . .thou!. . .Pray when ANOTHER
I would present you, Sir, to some fair dames CYRANO [coldly]
Ah! and who LE BRET [astonished] What’s wrong? CYRANO Hush! A MAN OF LETTERS [with writing-board] A few details?. . . CYRANO No. LE BRET [nudging his elbow]
’Tis Theophrast, CYRANO Who cares? LE BRET
This paper—but it is of great importance!. . . A POET [advancing] Sir. . . CYRANO What, another! THE POET
. . .Pray permit I make SOME ONE [also advancing] Pray, Sir. . . CYRANO Enough! Enough! A movement in the crowd. De Guiche appears, escorted by officers. Cuigy, Brissaille, the officers who went with Cyrano the night before. Cuigy comes rapidly up to Cyrano. CUIGY [to Cyrano]: DE GUICHE [bowing to Cyrano]
. . .Who would express his admiration, Sir, THE CROWD Bravo! CYRANO [bowing] The Marshal is a judge of valor. DE GUICHE
He could not have believed the thing, unless CUIGY With our own eyes! LE BRET [aside to Cyrano, who has an absent air] But. . .you. . . CYRANO Hush! LE BRET But. . .You suffer? CYRANO [starting]
Before this rabble?—I?. . . DE GUICHE [to whom Cuigy has spoken in a low voice]
In feats of arms, already your career CYRANO Ay, with the Cadets. A CADET [in a terrible voice] With us! DE GUICHE [looking at the cadets, ranged behind Cyrano]
Ah!. . .All these gentlemen of haughty mien, CARBON Cyrano! CYRANO Ay, Captain! CARBON
Since all my company’s assembled here, CYRANO [making two steps toward De Guiche]
My Lord de Guiche, permit that I present— DE GUICHE [seated with haughty carelessness in an armchair
brought quickly by Ragueneau]
A poet! ’Tis the fashion of the hour! CYRANO No, Sir,—no man’s! DE GUICHE
Last night LE BRET [overjoyed] Great Heavens! DE GUICHE
I imagine you have rhymed LE BRET [in Cyrano’s ear]
Your play!—your ‘Agrippine!’ DE GUICHE Take them to him. CYRANO [beginning to be tempted and attracted] In sooth,—I would. . . DE GUICHE He is a critic skilled He may correct a line or two, at most. CYRANO [whose face stiffens at once]
Impossible! My blood congeals to think DE GUICHE
But when a verse approves itself to him CYRANO
He pays less dear DE GUICHE You are proud. CYRANO Really? You have noticed that? A CADET [entering, with a string of old battered plumed beaver
hats, full of holes, slung on his sword]
See, Cyrano,—this morning, on the quay CARBON ‘Spolia opima!’ ALL [laughing] Ah! ah! ah! CUIGY
He who laid that ambush, ’faith! BRISSAILLE Who was it? DE GUICHE
I myself. Constrained silence. The CADET [in a low voice, to Cyrano, showing him the beavers] What do with them? They’re full of grease!—a stew? CYRANO [taking the sword and, with a salute, dropping the hats
at De Guiche’s feet]
Sir, pray be good enough to render them DE GUICHE [rising, sharply]
My chair there—quick!—I go! VOICE [in the street] Porters for my lord De Guiche! DE GUICHE [who has controlled himself—smiling] Have you read ‘Don Quixote’? CYRANO
I have! DE GUICHE I counsel you to study. . . A PORTER [appearing at back] My lord’s chair! DE GUICHE . . .The windmill chapter! CYRANO [bowing] Chapter the Thirteenth. DE GUICHE For when one tilts ’gainst windmills—it may chance. . . CYRANO Tilt I ’gainst those who change with every breeze? DE GUICHE
. . .That windmill sails may sweep you with their arm CYRANO Or upward—to the stars! De Guiche goes out, and mounts into his chair. The other lords go away whispering together. Le Bret goes to the door with them. The crowd disperses. Act 2.VIII.Cyrano, Le Bret, the cadets, who are eating and drinking at the tables right and left. CYRANO [bowing mockingly to those who go out without daring to salute him] Gentlemen. . .Gentlemen. . . LE BRET [coming back, despairingly] Here’s a fine coil! CYRANO Oh! scold away! LE BRET
At least, you will agree CYRANO Yes!—I exaggerate! LE BRET [triumphantly] Ah! CYRANO
But for principle—example too,— LE BRET
Oh! lay aside that pride of musketeer, CYRANO
Ay, and then?. . . LE BRET
Alone, an if you will! But not with hand CYRANO
By dint of seeing you at every turn LE BRET Lunacy! CYRANO
Well, what if it be my vice, LE BRET [after a silence, taking his arm]
Speak proud aloud, and bitter!—In my ear CYRANO [vehemently] Hush! Christian has just entered, and mingled with the cadets, who do not speak to him; he has seated himself at a table, where Lise serves him. Act 2.IX.Cyrano, Le Bret, the cadets, Christian de Neuvillette. A CADET [seated at a table, glass in hand]
Cyrano! CYRANO In its time! He goes up on Le Bret’s arm. They talk in low voices. THE CADET [rising and coming down]
The story of the fray! ’Twill lesson well CHRISTIAN [raising his head] ’Prentice! Who? ANOTHER CADET This sickly Northern greenhorn! CHRISTIAN Sickly! FIRST CADET [mockingly]
Hark! CHRISTIAN What may that be? ANOTHER CADET [in a terrible voice]
See here! CHRISTIAN Oh! ’tis the. . . ANOTHER
Hush! oh, never breathe that word, He points to Cyrano, who is talking with Le Bret. ANOTHER [who has meanwhile come up noiselessly to sit on the
table—whispering behind him]
Hark! ANOTHER [in a hollow voice, darting on all-fours from under
the table, where he had crept]
And if you would not perish in flower o’ youth, ANOTHER [clapping him on the shoulder]
A word? A gesture! For the indiscreet Silence. All, with crossed arms, look at Christian. He rises and goes over to Carbon de Castel-Jaloux, who is talking to an officer, and feigns to see nothing. CHRISTIAN Captain! CARBON [turning and looking at him from head to foot] Sir! CHRISTIAN
Pray, what skills it best to do CARBON
Give them proof He turns his back on him. CHRISTIAN I thank you. FIRST CADET [to Cyrano] Now the tale! ALL The tale! CYRANO [coming toward them]
The tale?. . . CHRISTIAN Than one’s nose! Silence. All slowly rise, looking in terror at Cyrano, who has stopped— dumbfounded. Pause. CYRANO Who on God’s earth is that? A CADET [whispering]
It is a man CYRANO [making a step toward Christian] To-day? CARBON [in a low voice]
Yes. . .his name is CYRANO [checking himself]
Good! It is well. . . CHRISTIAN My nose!. . . Every one starts up. Christian balances on his chair. CYRANO [in a choked voice]
. . .’My teeth! CHRISTIAN My nose!. . . CYRANO
‘My finger,. . .in the crack CHRISTIAN Over the nose. . . CYRANO [wiping his forehead]
. . .’O’ th’ knuckles! Ay,’ CHRISTIAN A crack o’ th’ nose. CYRANO I parry it—find myself. . . CHRISTIAN Nose to nose. . . CYRANO [bounding on to him]
Heaven and earth! CHRISTIAN A noseful. . . CYRANO [white, but smiling]
Onions, brandy-cups! CHRISTIAN Nosing the wind! CYRANO
I charge!—gore two, impale one—run him through, CHRISTIAN Pif! CYRANO [bursting out] Great God! Out! all of you! The cadets rush to the doors. FIRST CADET The tiger wakes! CYRANO Every man, out! Leave me alone with him! SECOND CADET
We shall find him minced fine, minced into hash RAGUENEAU
I am turning pale, CARBON Let us be gone. ANOTHER He will not leave a crumb! ANOTHER I die of fright to think what will pass here! ANOTHER [shutting door right] Something too horrible! All have gone out by different doors, some by the staircase. Cyrano and Christian are face to face, looking at each other for a moment. Act 2.X.Cyrano, Christian. CYRANO Embrace me now! CHRISTIAN Sir. . . CYRANO You are brave. CHRISTIAN Oh! but. . . CYRANO Nay, I insist. CHRISTIAN Pray tell me. . . CYRANO Come, embrace! I am her brother. CHRISTIAN Whose brother? CYRANO Hers i’ faith! Roxane’s! CHRISTIAN [rushing up to him]
O heavens! CYRANO Cousin—brother!. . .the same thing! CHRISTIAN And she has told you. . .? CYRANO All! CHRISTIAN She loves me? say! CYRANO Maybe! CHRISTIAN [taking his hands] How glad I am to meet you, Sir! CYRANO That may be called a sudden sentiment! CHRISTIAN I ask your pardon. . . CYRANO [looking at him, with his hand on his shoulder] True, he’s fair, the villain! CHRISTIAN Ah, Sir! If you but knew my admiration!. . . CYRANO But all those noses?. . . CHRISTIAN Oh! I take them back! CYRANO Roxane expects a letter. CHRISTIAN Woe the day! CYRANO How? CHRISTIAN I am lost if I but ope my lips! CYRANO Why so? CHRISTIAN I am a fool—could die for shame! CYRANO
None is a fool who knows himself a fool. CHRISTIAN
Bah! One finds battle-cry to lead th’ assault! CYRANO And, when you stay, their hearts, methinks, are kinder? CHRISTIAN
No! for I am one of those men—tongue-tied, CYRANO
And I, meseems, had Nature been more kind, CHRISTIAN Oh, to express one’s thoughts with facile grace!. . . CYRANO . . .To be a musketeer, with handsome face! CHRISTIAN
Roxane is precieuse. I’m sure to prove CYRANO [looking at him]
Had I but CHRISTIAN [with despair] Eloquence! Where to find it? CYRANO [abruptly]
That I lend, CHRISTIAN How so? CYRANO
Think you you can repeat what things CHRISTIAN What do you mean? CYRANO
Roxane shall never have a disillusion! CHRISTIAN But, Cyrano!. . . CYRANO Will you, I say? CHRISTIAN I fear! CYRANO
Since, by yourself, you fear to chill her heart, CHRISTIAN Your eyes flash! CYRANO Will you? CHRISTIAN
Will it please you so? CYRANO [madly]
It!. . . CHRISTIAN
The letter, that she waits for even now! CYRANO [taking out the letter he had written] See! Here it is—your letter! CHRISTIAN What? CYRANO Take it! Look, it wants but the address. CHRISTIAN But I. . . CYRANO Fear nothing. Send it. It will suit. CHRISTIAN But have you. . .? CYRANO
Oh! We have our pockets full, CHRISTIAN
Were it not well CYRANO ’Twill fit like a glove! CHRISTIAN But. . . CYRANO
Ah, credulity of love! Roxane CHRISTIAN My friend! He throws himself into Cyrano’s arms. They remain thus. Act 2.XI.Cyrano, Christian, the Gascons, the musketeer, Lise. A CADET [half opening the door]
Naught here!. . .The silence of the grave! ALL THE CADETS [entering, and seeing Cyrano and Christian embracing] Oh!. . . A CADET This passes all! Consternation. THE MUSKETEER [mockingly] Ho, ho!. . . CARBON
Our demon has become a saint? MUSKETEER
Then we may speak about his nose, henceforth!. . . CYRANO [cuffing his head] Clove-heads. General delight. The cadets have found the old Cyrano again! They turn somersaults. Curtain. Act III.Roxane’s Kiss. A small square in the old Marais. Old houses. A perspective of little streets. On the right Roxane’s house and the wall of her garden overhung with thick foliage. Window and balcony over the door. A bench in front. From the bench and the stones jutting out of the wall it is easy to climb to the balcony. In front of an old house in the same style of brick and stone. The knocker of this door is bandaged with linen like a sore thumb. At the rising of the curtain the duenna is seated on the bench. The window on Roxane’s balcony is wide open. Ragueneau is standing near the door in a sort of livery. He has just finished relating something to the duenna, and is wiping his eyes. Act 3.I.Ragueneau, the duenna. Then Roxane, Cyrano, and two pages. RAGUENEAU
—And then, off she went, with a musketeer! Deserted and ruined
too, I THE DUENNA Well, but how came it about that you were thus ruined? RAGUENEAU
Oh! Lise loved the warriors, and I loved the poets! What cakes
there were THE DUENNA [rising, and calling up to the open window] Roxane, are you ready? They wait for us! ROXANE’S VOICE [from the window] I will but put me on a cloak! THE DUENNA [to Ragueneau, showing him the door opposite]
They wait us there opposite, at Clomire’s house. She receives
them all RAGUENEAU The Tender Passion? THE DUENNA [in a mincing voice]
Ay, indeed! ROXANE’S VOICE I come! I come! A sound of stringed instruments approaching. CYRANO’S VOICE [behind the scenes, singing] La, la, la, la! THE DUENNA [surprised] They serenade us? CYRANO [followed by two pages with arch-lutes] I tell you they are demi-semi-quavers, demi-semi-fool! FIRST PAGE [ironically]
You know then, Sir, to distinguish between semi-quavers and
demi-semi- CYRANO Is not every disciple of Gassendi a musician? THE PAGE [playing and singing] La, la! CYRANO [snatching the lute from him, and going on with the phrase] In proof of which, I can continue! La, la, la, la! ROXANE [appearing on the balcony] What? ’Tis you? CYRANO [going on with the air, and singing to it] ’Tis I, who come to serenade your lilies, and pay my devoir to your ro-o-oses! ROXANE I am coming down! She leaves the balcony.] THE DUENNA [pointing to the pages] How come these two virtuosi here? CYRANO
’Tis for a wager I won of D’Assoucy. We were disputing a nice
point in ROXANE [coming out of the house] Ah! How handsome he is, how brilliant a wit! And—how well I love him! CYRANO [smiling] Christian has so brilliant a wit? ROXANE Brighter than even your own, cousin! CYRANO Be it so, with all my heart! ROXANE
Ah! methinks ’twere impossible that there could breathe a man on
this earth CYRANO [incredulously] No, no! ROXANE
Fie! That is ill said! But lo! men are ever thus! Because he is
fair to CYRANO He hath an eloquent tongue in telling his love? ROXANE
In telling his love? why, ’tis not simple telling, ’tis
dissertation, ’tis CYRANO How is he with the pen? ROXANE
Still better! Listen,—here:— CYRANO Pooh! ROXANE
And thus it goes on. . . CYRANO
Lord! first he has too much, then anon not enough! How much
heart does the ROXANE You would vex a saint!. . .But ’tis your jealousy. CYRANO [starting] What mean you? ROXANE
Ay, your poet’s jealousy! Hark now, if this again be not
tender-sweet?— CYRANO [smiling approvingly in spite of himself]
Ha! those last lines are,—hm!. . .hm!. . . ROXANE And this. . . CYRANO [enchanted] Then you have his letters by heart? ROXANE Every one of them! CYRANO By all oaths that can be sworn,—’tis flattering! ROXANE They are the lines of a master! CYRANO [modestly] Come, nay. . .a master?. . . ROXANE Ay, I say it—a master! CYRANO Good—be it so. THE DUENNA [coming down quickly]
Here comes Monsieur de Guiche! ROXANE [to Cyrano]
Ay, of my own dear secret! He loves me, and is powerful, and, if
he knew, CYRANO [entering the house] Good! good! De Guiche appears. Act 3.II.Roxane, De Guiche, the duenna standing a little way off. ROXANE [courtesying to De Guiche] I was going out. DE GUICHE I come to take my leave. ROXANE Whither go you? DE GUICHE To the war. ROXANE Ah! DE GUICHE Ay, to-night. ROXANE Oh! DE GUICHE I am ordered away. We are to besiege Arras. ROXANE Ah—to besiege?. . . DE GUICHE Ay. My going moves you not, meseems. ROXANE Nay. . . DE GUICHE
I am grieved to the core of the heart. Shall I again behold
you?. . .When? ROXANE [indifferently] Bravo! DE GUICHE Of the Guards regiment. ROXANE [startled] What! the Guards? DE GUICHE
Ay, where serves your cousin, the swaggering boaster. I will
find a way to ROXANE [choking] What mean you? The Guards go to Arras? DE GUICHE [laughing] Bethink you, is it not my own regiment? ROXANE [falling seated on the bench—aside] Christian! DE GUICHE What ails you? ROXANE [moved deeply] Oh—I am in despair! The man one loves!—at the war! DE GUICHE [surprised and delighted]
You say such sweet words to me! ’Tis the first time!—and just
when I must ROXANE [collected, and fanning herself] Thus,—you would fain revenge your grudge against my cousin? DE GUICHE My fair lady is on his side? ROXANE Nay,—against him! DE GUICHE Do you see him often? ROXANE But very rarely. DE GUICHE
He is ever to be met now in company with one of the cadets,. .
.one New— ROXANE Of high stature? DE GUICHE Fair-haired! ROXANE Ay, a red-headed fellow! DE GUICHE Handsome!. . . ROXANE Tut! DE GUICHE But dull-witted. ROXANE
One would think so, to look at him! DE GUICHE What then? Tell. . . ROXANE
If, when the regiment march to Arras, he were left here with his
beloved DE GUICHE [coming nearer] O woman! woman! Who but a woman had e’er devised so subtle a trick? ROXANE
See you not how he will eat out his heart, while his friends
gnaw their DE GUICHE
You love me, then, a little? ROXANE ’Tis a proof of love! DE GUICHE [showing some sealed papers]
Here are the marching orders; they will be sent instantly to
each company— ROXANE Sometimes! DE GUICHE [coming close to her]
Oh! how I love you!—to distraction! Listen! To-night—true, I
ought to ROXANE But, of this be rumored, your glory. . . DE GUICHE Bah! ROXANE But the siege—Arras. . . DE GUICHE ’Twill take its chance. Grant but permission. ROXANE No! DE GUICHE Give me leave! ROXANE [tenderly] It were my duty to forbid you! DE GUICHE Ah! ROXANE
You must go! DE GUICHE O heavenly word! You love, then, him?. . . ROXANE . . .For whom I trembled. DE GUICHE [in an ecstasy]
Ah! I go then! ROXANE Yes, my friend! He goes out. THE DUENNA [making behind his back a mocking courtesy] Yes, my friend! ROXANE [to the duenna]
Not a word of what I have done. Cyrano would never pardon me for
stealing Act 3.III.Roxane, The duenna, Cyrano. ROXANE
We are going to Clomire’s house. THE DUENNA [putting her little finger in her ear] Yes! But my little finger tells me we shall miss them. CYRANO ’Twere a pity to miss such apes! They have come to Clomire’s door. THE DUENNA
Oh, see! The knocker is muffled up! She lifts it carefully and knocks with precaution. ROXANE [seeing that the door opens]
Let us enter! CYRANO [quickly, as she is going in]
Listen! ROXANE Oh— CYRANO [eagerly] Well, say. ROXANE But you will be mute? CYRANO Mute as a fish. ROXANE
I shall not question him at all, but say: Give rein to your
fancy! Prepare CYRANO [smiling] Very good! ROXANE But secret!. . . CYRANO Secret. ROXANE Not a word! She enters and shuts the door. CYRANO [when the door is shut, bowing to her] A thousand thanks! The door opens again, and Roxane puts her head out. ROXANE Lest he prepare himself! CYRANO The devil!—no, no! BOTH TOGETHER Secret. The door shuts. CYRANO [calling] Christian! Act 3.IV.Cyrano, Christian. CYRANO
I know all that is needful. Here’s occasion CHRISTIAN No! CYRANO Why? CHRISTIAN I will wait for Roxane here. CYRANO
How? Crazy? CHRISTIAN
No, no! I say. CYRANO Mercy! CHRISTIAN
And how know you I cannot speak?— CYRANO [bowing] Speak for yourself, my friend, and take your chance. He disappears behind the garden wall. Act 3.V.Christian, Roxane, the duenna. ROXANE [coming out of Clomire’s house, with a company of friends, whom she leaves. Bows and good-byes] Barthenoide!—Alcandre!—Gremione!— THE DUENNA [bitterly disappointed] We’ve missed the speech upon the Tender Passion! Goes into Roxane’s house. ROXANE [still bowing]
Urimedonte—adieu! CHRISTIAN [sits by her on the bench. A silence] Oh! I love you! ROXANE [shutting her eyes] Ay, speak to me of love. CHRISTIAN I love thee! ROXANE
That’s CHRISTIAN I. . . ROXANE Vary it! CHRISTIAN I love you so! ROXANE Oh! without doubt!—and then?. . . CHRISTIAN
And then—I should be—oh!—so glad—so glad ROXANE [with a little grimace]
I hoped for cream,—you give me gruel! Say CHRISTIAN Oh utterly! ROXANE Come, come!. . .unknot those tangled sentiments! CHRISTIAN Your throat I’d kiss it! ROXANE Christian! CHRISTIAN I love thee! ROXANE [half-rising] Again! CHRISTIAN [eagerly, detaining her] No, no! I love thee not! ROXANE [reseating herself] ’Tis well! CHRISTIAN But I adore thee! ROXANE [rising, and going further off] Oh! CHRISTIAN I am grown stupid! ROXANE [dryly]
And that displeases me, almost as much CHRISTIAN But. . . ROXANE Rally your poor eloquence that’s flown! CHRISTIAN I. . . ROXANE Yes, you love me, that I know. Adieu. She goes toward her house. CHRISTIAN Oh, go not yet! I’d tell you— ROXANE [opening the door]
You adore me? CHRISTIAN But I would fain. . . She shuts the door in his face. CYRANO [who has re-entered unseen] I’ faith! It is successful! Act 3.VI.Christian, Cyrano, two pages. CHRISTIAN Come to my aid! CYRANO Not I! CHRISTIAN
But I shall die, CYRANO
And how can I, at once, i’ th’ devil’s name, CHRISTIAN [seizing his arm] Oh, she is there! The window of the balcony is now lighted up. CYRANO [moved] Her window! CHRISTIAN Oh! I shall die! CYRANO Speak lower! CHRISTIAN [in a whisper] I shall die! CYRANO The night is dark. . . CHRISTIAN Well! CYRANO
All can be repaired. CHRISTIAN But. . . CYRANO Hold your tongue! THE PAGES [reappearing at back—to Cyrano] Ho! CYRANO Hush! He signs to them to speak softly. FIRST PAGE [in a low voice]
We’ve played the serenade you bade CYRANO [quickly, in a low voice]
Go! lurk in ambush there, SECOND PAGE What tune, Sir Gassendist? CYRANO
Gay, if a woman comes,—for a man, sad! CHRISTIAN Roxane! CYRANO [picking up stones and throwing them at the window] Some pebbles! wait awhile! ROXANE [half-opening the casement] Who calls me? CHRISTIAN I! ROXANE Who’s that? CHRISTIAN Christian! ROXANE [disdainfully] Oh! you? CHRISTIAN I would speak with you. CYRANO [under the balcony—to Christian] Good. Speak soft and low. ROXANE No, you speak stupidly! CHRISTIAN Oh, pity me! ROXANE No! you love me no more! CHRISTIAN [prompted by Cyrano]
You say—Great Heaven! ROXANE [who was about to shut the casement, pausing] Hold! ’tis a trifle better! ay, a trifle! CHRISTIAN [same play]
Love grew apace, rocked by the anxious beating. . . ROXANE [coming out on to the balcony]
That is better! But CHRISTIAN [same play]
Ah, Madame, I assayed, but all in vain ROXANE Still better! CHRISTIAN [same play]
Thus he strangled in my heart ROXANE [leaning over the balcony]
Well said! CYRANO [drawing Christian under the balcony, and slipping into his place] Give place! This waxes critical!. . . ROXANE
To-day. . . CYRANO [imitating Christian—in a whisper]
Night has come. . . ROXANE But my words find no such impediment. CYRANO
They find their way at once? Small wonder that! ROXANE Meseems that your last words have learned to climb. CYRANO With practice such gymnastic grows less hard! ROXANE In truth, I seem to speak from distant heights! CYRANO
True, far above; at such a height ’twere death ROXANE [moving] I will come down. . . CYRANO [hastily] No! ROXANE [showing him the bench under the balcony] Mount then on the bench! CYRANO [starting back alarmed] No! ROXANE How, you will not? CYRANO [more and more moved]
Stay awhile! ’Tis sweet,. . . ROXANE Why—unseen? CYRANO
Ay, it is sweet! Half hidden,—half revealed— ROXANE You were! CYRANO
Yet never till to-night my speech has sprung ROXANE Why not? CYRANO Till now I spoke haphazard. . . ROXANE What? CYRANO
Your eyes ROXANE ’Tis true, your voice rings with a tone that’s new. CYRANO [coming nearer, passionately]
Ay, a new tone! In the tender, sheltering dusk ROXANE
How? CYRANO [off his balance, trying to find the thread of his
sentence]
Ay,—to be at last sincere; ROXANE Mocked, and for what? CYRANO
For its mad beating!—Ay, ROXANE A wild flower’s sweet. CYRANO Ay, but to-night—the star! ROXANE Oh! never have you spoken thus before! CYRANO
If, leaving Cupid’s arrows, quivers, torches, ROXANE But wit?. . . CYRANO
If I have used it to arrest you ROXANE But wit? I say. . . CYRANO
In love ’tis crime,—’tis hateful! ROXANE
Well, if that moment’s come for us—suppose it! CYRANO
All, all, all, whatever ROXANE [agitated] Why, this is love indeed!. . . CYRANO
Ay, true, the feeling He kisses passionately one of the hanging tendrils. ROXANE
Ay! I am trembling, weeping!—I am thine! CYRANO
Then let death come! CHRISTIAN [under the balcony] A kiss! ROXANE [drawing back] What? CYRANO Oh! ROXANE You ask. . .? CYRANO
I. . . CHRISTIAN Since she is moved thus—I will profit by it! CYRANO [to Roxane]
My words sprang thoughtlessly, but now I see— ROXANE [a little chilled] How quickly you withdraw. CYRANO
Yes, I withdraw CHRISTIAN [to Cyrano, pulling him by his cloak] Why? CYRANO Silence, Christian! Hush! ROXANE [leaning over] What whisper you? CYRANO
I chid myself for my too bold advances; Enter a capuchin friar, with a lantern. He goes from house to house, looking at every door. Act 3.VII.Cyrano, Christian, a capuchin friar. CYRANO [to the friar] What do you, playing at Diogenes? THE FRIAR I seek the house of Madame. . . CHRISTIAN Oh! plague take him! THE FRIAR Madeleine Robin. . . CHRISTIAN What would he?. . . CYRANO [pointing to a street at the back]
This way! THE FRIAR He goes out. CYRANO Good luck! My blessings rest upon your cowl! He goes back to Christian. Act 3.VIII.Cyrano, Christian. CHRISTIAN Oh! win for me that kiss. . . CYRANO No! CHRISTIAN Soon or late!. . . CYRANO
’Tis true! The moment of intoxication— A sound of shutters reopening. Christian goes in again under the balcony. Act 3.IX.Cyrano, Christian, Roxane. ROXANE [coming out on the balcony]
Still there? CYRANO
A kiss! The word is sweet. ROXANE Hush! hush! CYRANO
A kiss, when all is said,—what is it? ROXANE Hush! hush! CYRANO
A kiss, Madame, is honorable
The Queen of France, to a most favored lord ROXANE What then? CYRANO [speaking more warmly]
Buckingham suffered dumbly,—so have I,— ROXANE
And you CYRANO [aside—suddenly cooled] True,—I forgot! ROXANE Must I then bid thee mount to cull this flower? CYRANO [pushing Christian toward the balcony] Mount! ROXANE This heart-breathing!. . . CYRANO Mount! ROXANE This brush of bee’s wing!. . . CYRANO Mount! CHRISTIAN [hesitating] But I feel now, as though ’twere ill done! ROXANE This moment infinite!. . . CYRANO [still pushing him] Come, blockhead, mount! Christian springs forward, and by means of the bench, the branches, and the pillars, climbs to the balcony and strides over it. CHRISTIAN Ah, Roxane! He takes her in his arms, and bends over her lips. CYRANO
Aie! Strange pain that wrings my heart! ROXANE Who is it? CYRANO
I—I was but passing by. . . CHRISTIAN [astonished] Cyrano! ROXANE Good-day, cousin! CYRANO Cousin, good-day! ROXANE I’m coming! She disappears into the house. At the back re-enter the friar. CHRISTIAN [seeing him] Back again! He follows Roxane. Act 3.X.Cyrano, Christian, Roxane, the friar, Ragueneau. THE FRIAR ’Tis here,—I’m sure of it—Madame Madeleine Robin. CYRANO Why, you said Ro-LIN. THE FRIAR
No, not I. ROXANE [appearing on the threshold, followed by Ragueneau, who carries a lantern, and Christian] What is’t? THE FRIAR A letter. CHRISTIAN What? THE FRIAR [to Roxane]
Oh, it can boot but a holy business! ROXANE [to Christian] De Guiche! CHRISTIAN He dares. . . ROXANE
Oh, he will not importune me forever! THE FRIAR [with great delight]
O worthy lord! I knew naught was to fear; ROXANE [to Christian, in a low voice] Am I not apt at reading letters? CHRISTIAN Hum! ROXANE [aloud, with despair] But this is horrible! THE FRIAR [who has turned his lantern on Cyrano] ’Tis you? CHRISTIAN ’Tis I! THE FRIAR [turning the light on to him, and as if a doubt struck him on seeing his beauty] But. . . ROXANE [quickly]
I have overlooked the postscript—see:— THE FRIAR
. . .Oh! ROXANE [with a martyr’s look]
I submit! CYRANO
I understand! THE FRIAR A quarter of an hour. CYRANO [pushing them all toward the house] Go! I stay. ROXANE [to Christian] Come!. . . They enter. CYRANO
Now, how to detain De Guiche so long? Act 3.XI.Cyrano, De Guiche. DE GUICHE [who enters, masked, feeling his way in the dark] What can that cursed Friar be about? CYRANO
The devil!. . .If he knows my voice! DE GUICHE [looking at the house]
’Tis there. I see dim,—this mask hinders me! CYRANO [sitting up, and speaking with a Gascon accent] From the moon! DE GUICHE From?. . . CYRANO [in a dreamy voice] What’s o’clock? DE GUICHE He’s lost his mind, for sure! CYRANO What hour? What country this? What month? What day? DE GUICHE But. . . CYRANO I am stupefied! DE GUICHE Sir! CYRANO
Like a bomb DE GUICHE [impatiently] Come now! CYRANO [rising, in a terrible voice] I say,—the moon! DE GUICHE [recoiling] Good, good! let it be so!. . .He’s raving mad! CYRANO [walking up to him] I say from the moon! I mean no metaphor!. . . DE GUICHE But. . . CYRANO
Was’t a hundred years—a minute, since? DE GUICHE [shrugging his shoulders] Good! let me pass! CYRANO [intercepting him]
Where am I? Tell the truth! DE GUICHE Morbleu! CYRANO
The fall was lightning-quick! no time to choose DE GUICHE I tell you, Sir. . . CYRANO [with a screech of terror, which makes De Guiche start
back]
No? Can it be? I’m on DE GUICHE [putting a hand to his face] What? CYRANO [feigning great alarm] Am I in Africa? A native you? DE GUICHE [who has remembered his mask] This mask of mine. . . CYRANO [pretending to be reassured] In Venice? ha!—or Rome? DE GUICHE [trying to pass] A lady waits... CYRANO [quite reassured] Oh-ho! I am in Paris! DE GUICHE [smiling in spite of himself] The fool is comical! CYRANO You laugh? DE GUICHE
I laugh, CYRANO [beaming with joy]
I have shot back to Paris! He puffs as if to blow it away. DE GUICHE [beside himself] Sir!. . . CYRANO [just as he is about to pass, holds out his leg as if
to show him something and stops him]
In my leg—the calf—there is a tooth DE GUICHE Milk? CYRANO From the Milky Way! DE GUICHE Oh, go to hell! CYRANO [crossing his arms]
I fall, Sir, out of heaven! DE GUICHE Come, make an end! I want. . . CYRANO Oh-ho! You are sly! DE GUICHE Sir! CYRANO
You would worm all out of me!—the way DE GUICHE [angrily]
No, no! CYRANO
Ha, ha!—to know how I got up? DE GUICHE [wearied] He’s mad! CYRANO[contemptuously]
No! not for me the stupid eagle DE GUICHE Ay, ’tis a fool! But ’tis a learned fool! CYRANO
No imitator I of other men! DE GUICHE [turning round] Six? CYRANO [volubly]
First, with body naked as your hand, DE GUICHE [surprised, making one step toward Cyrano] Ah! that makes one! CYRANO [stepping back, and enticing him further away]
And then, the second way, DE GUICHE [making another step] Two! CYRANO [still stepping backward]
Or—for I have some mechanic skill— DE GUICHE [unconsciously following him and counting on his fingers] Three! CYRANO
Or [since fumes have property to mount]— DE GUICHE [same play, more and more astonished] Well, that makes four! CYRANO
Or smear myself with marrow from a bull, DE GUICHE [amazed] Five! CYRANO [who, while speaking, had drawn him to the other side
of the square near a bench]
Sitting on an iron platform—thence DE GUICHE
Here are six excellent expedients! CYRANO Why, none!—a seventh! DE GUICHE Astonishing! What was it? CYRANO I’ll recount. DE GUICHE This wild eccentric becomes interesting! CYRANO [making a noise like the waves, with weird gestures] Houuh! Houuh! DE GUICHE Well. CYRANO You have guessed? DE GUICHE Not I! CYRANO
The tide! DE GUICHE [overcome by curiosity, sitting down on the bench] Then? CYRANO
Oh! then. . . DE GUICHE [springing up]
What? Am I mad? CYRANO [bowing]
Cyrano. DE GUICHE
Who? Act 3.XII.The same. Roxane, Christian, the friar, Ragueneau, lackeys, the duenna. DE GUICHE [to Roxane]
You? CYRANO [bowing] I shall not fail to follow your advice. THE FRIAR [showing with satisfaction the two lovers to De Guiche] A handsome couple, son, made one by you! DE GUICHE [with a freezing look]
Ay! ROXANE Why so? DE GUICHE [to Christian]
Even now the regiment departs. ROXANE It goes to battle? DE GUICHE Without doubt. ROXANE But the Cadets go not? DE GUICHE
Oh ay! they go. ROXANE [throwing herself in Christian’s arms] Christian! DE GUICHE [sneeringly to Cyrano] The wedding-night is far, methinks! CYRANO [aside] He thinks to give me pain of death by this! CHRISTIAN [to Roxane] Oh! once again! Your lips! CYRANO Come, come, enough! CHRISTIAN [still kissing Roxane] —’Tis hard to leave her, you know not. . . CYRANO [trying to draw him away] I know. Sound of drums beating a march in the distance. DE GUICHE The regiment starts! ROXANE [To Cyrano, holding back Christian, whom Cyrano is
drawing away]
Oh!—I trust him you! CYRANO
I will try my best, but promise. . . ROXANE But swear he shall be prudent? CYRANO Again, I’ll do my best, but. . . ROXANE
In the siege CYRANO
All that man can do, ROXANE That he shall be faithful! CYRANO Doubtless, but. . . ROXANE That he will write oft? CYRANO [pausing] That, I promise you! Curtain. ACT IV.The Cadets of Gascony. Post occupied by company of Carbon de Castel-Jaloux at the siege of Arras. In the background an embankment across the whole stage. Beyond, view of plain extending to the horizon. The country covered with intrenchments. The walls of Arras and the outlines of its roofs against the sky in the distance. Tents. Arms strewn about, drums, etc. Day is breaking with a faint glimmer of yellow sunrise in the east. Sentinels at different points. Watch-fires. The cadets of Gascony, wrapped in their mantles, are sleeping. Carbon de Castel-Jaloux and Le Bret are keeping watch. They are very pale and thin. Christian sleeps among the others in his cloak in the foreground, his face illuminated by the fire. Silence. Act 4.I.Christian, Carbon de Castel-Jaloux, Le Bret, the cadets, then Cyrano. LE BRET ’Tis terrible. CARBON Not a morsel left. LE BRET Mordioux! CARBON [making a sign that he should speak lower]
Curse under your breath. You will awake them. LE BRET
But that is sorry comfort for the sleepless!. . . Firing is heard in the distance. CARBON
Oh, plague take their firing! ’Twill wake my sons. Firing is again heard, nearer this time. A CADET [moving] The devil!. . .Again. CARBON ’Tis nothing! ’Tis Cyrano coming back! Those who have lifted up their heads prepare to sleep again. A SENTINEL [from without] Ventrebieu! Who goes there? THE VOICE Of CYRANO Bergerac. The SENTINEL [who is on the redoubt] Ventrebieu! Who goes there? CYRANO [appearing at the top] Bergerac, idiot! He comes down; Le Bret advances anxiously to meet him. LE BRET Heavens! CYRANO [making signs that he should not awake the others] Hush! LE BRET Wounded? CYRANO
Oh! you know it has become their custom to shoot at me every
morning and to LE BRET This passes all! To take letters at each day’s dawn. To risk. . . CYRANO [stopping before Christian]
I promised he should write often. LE BRET Get you quick to bed. CYRANO
Nay, never scold, Le Bret. I ran but little risk. I have found
me a spot LE BRET You should try to bring us back provision. CYRANO
A man must carry no weight who would get by there! But there
will be LE BRET Oh!. . .tell me!. . . CYRANO Nay, not yet. I am not certain. . .You will see! CARBON It is disgraceful that we should starve while we’re besieging! LE BRET
Alas, how full of complication is this siege of Arras! To think
that while CYRANO It were well done if he should be besieged in his turn. LE BRET I am in earnest. CYRANO Oh! indeed! LE BRET
To think you risk a life so precious. . .for the sake of a
letter. . .Thankless one. CYRANO I am going to write another. He enters the tent and disappears. Act 4.II.The same, all but Cyrano. The day is breaking in a rosy light. The town of Arras is golden in the horizon. The report of cannon is heard in the distance, followed immediately by the beating of drums far away to the left. Other drums are heard much nearer. Sounds of stirring in the camp. Voices of officers in the distance.
CARBON [sighing]: A CADET [sitting up] I am so hungry! ANOTHER I am dying of hunger. TOGETHER Oh! CARBON Up with you! THIRD CADET —Cannot move a limb. FOURTH CADET Nor can I. THE FIRST [looking at himself in a bit of armor] My tongue is yellow. The air at this season of the year is hard to digest. ANOTHER My coronet for a bit of Chester! ANOTHER
If none can furnish to my gaster wherewith to make a pint of
chyle, I shall ANOTHER Oh! something! were it but a crust! CARBON [going to the tent and calling softly] Cyrano! ALL THE CADETS We are dying! CARBON [continuing to speak under his breath at the opening of
the tent]
Come to my aid, you, who have the art of quick retort and gay
jest. Come, SECOND CADET [rushing toward another who is munching something] What are you crunching there? FIRST CADET Cannon-wads soaked in axle-grease! ’Tis poor hunting round about Arras! A CADET [entering] I have been after game. ANOTHER [following him] And I after fish. ALL [rushing to the two newcomers] Well! what have you brought?—a pheasant?—a carp?—Come, show us quick! THE ANGLER A gudgeon! THE SPORTSMAN A sparrow! ALL TOGETHER [beside themselves] ’Tis more than can be borne! We will mutiny! CARBON Cyrano! Come to my help. The daylight has now come. Act 4.III.The SAME. Cyrano. CYRANO [appearing from the tent, very calm, with a pen stuck
behind his ear and a book in his hand]
What is wrong? THE CADET I have something in my heels which weighs them down. CYRANO And what may that be? THE CADET My stomach! CYRANO So have I, ’faith! THE CADET It must be in your way? CYRANO Nay, I am all the taller. A THIRD My stomach’s hollow. CYRANO ’Faith, ’twill make a fine drum to sound the assault. ANOTHER I have a ringing in my ears. CYRANO No, no, ’tis false; a hungry stomach has no ears. ANOTHER Oh, to eat something—something oily! CYRANO [pulling off the cadet’s helmet and holding it out to him] Behold your salad! ANOTHER What, in God’s name, can we devour? CYRANO [throwing him the book which he is carrying] The ‘Iliad’. ANOTHER The first minister in Paris has his four meals a day! CYRANO ’Twere courteous an he sent you a few partridges! THE SAME And why not? with wine, too! CYRANO A little Burgundy. Richelieu, s’il vous plait! THE SAME He could send it by one of his friars. CYRANO Ay! by His Eminence Joseph himself. ANOTHER I am as ravenous as an ogre! CYRANO Eat your patience, then. THE FIRST CADET [shrugging his shoulders] Always your pointed word! CYRANO
Ay, pointed words! CRIES FROM ALL I’m hungry! CYRANO [crossing his arms]
All your thoughts of meat and drink! The cadets sit with bowed heads; their eyes have a far-off look as if dreaming, and they surreptitiously wipe away their tears with their cuffs and the corner of their cloaks. CARBON [to Cyrano in a whisper] But you make them weep! CYRANO
Ay, for homesickness. A nobler pain than hunger,—’tis of the
soul, not of CARBON But you weaken their courage by playing thus on their heart-strings! CYRANO [making a sign to a drummer to approach]
Not I. The hero that sleeps in Gascon blood is ever ready to
awake in them. He makes a signal; the drum beats. ALL THE CADETS [stand up and rush to take arms] What? What is it? CYRANO [smiling]
You see! One roll of the drum is enough! Good-by dreams,
regrets, native A CADET [looking toward the back of the stage] Ho! here comes Monsieur de Guiche. ALL THE CADETS [muttering] Ugh!. . .Ugh!. . . CYRANO [smiling] A flattering welcome! A CADET We are sick to death of him! ANOTHER CADET —With his lace collar over his armor, playing the fine gentleman! ANOTHER As if one wore linen over steel! THE FIRST It were good for a bandage had he boils on his neck. THE SECOND Another plotting courtier! ANOTHER CADET His uncle’s own nephew! CARBON For all that—a Gascon. THE FIRST
Ay, false Gascon!. . .trust him not. . . LE BRET How pale he is! ANOTHER
Oh! he is hungry, just like us poor devils; but under his
cuirass, with its CYRANO [hurriedly]
Let us not seem to suffer either! Out with your cards, pipes,
and dice. . . He walks up and down, reading a little book which he has drawn from his pocket. Tableau. Enter De Guiche. All appear absorbed and happy. He is very pale. He goes up to Carbon. Act 4.IV.The same. De Guiche. DE GUICHE [to Carbon]
Good-day! CARBON [aside] He has nothing left but eyes. DE GUICHE [looking at the cadets]
Here are the rebels! Ay, Sirs, on all sides CARBON I am free, moreover,—will not punish— DE GUICHE Ah! CARBON
I have paid my company—’tis mine. DE GUICHE
So?—in faith! CYRANO [without lifting his eyes from his book] And your white scarf? DE GUICHE [surprised and gratified]
You know that detail?. . .Troth! It happened thus
While caracoling to recall the troops The cadets pretend not to be listening, but the cards and the dice-boxes remain suspended in their hands, the smoke of their pipes in their cheeks. They wait. CYRANO
I say, that Henri Quatre Silent delight. The cards fall, the dice rattle. The smoke is puffed. DE GUICHE The ruse succeeded, though! Same suspension of play, etc. CYRANO
Oh, may be! But DE GUICHE Oh, ay! Another Gascon boast! CYRANO
A boast? DE GUICHE
Another Gascon vaunt! You know the scarf CYRANO [drawing the scarf from his pocket, and holding it out to him] Here it is. Silence. The cadets stifle their laughter in their cards and dice-boxes. De Guiche turns and looks at them; they instantly become grave, and set to play. One of them whistles indifferently the air just played by the fifer. DE GUICHE [taking the scarf]
I thank you. It will now enable me He goes to the rampart, climbs it, and waves the scarf thrice. ALL What’s that? THE SENTINEL [from the top of the rampart]
See you yon man DE GUICHE [descending]
’Tis a false Spanish spy CYRANO Scoundrel! DE GUICHE [carelessly knotting on his scarf]
’Tis opportune. What were we saying? CARBON
Ay, if the Spaniards knew, ’twere ill for us, DE GUICHE
Oh! they know. CARBON Ah! DE GUICHE
For my false spy CARBON [to cadets] Make ready! All rise; sounds of swords and belts being buckled. DE GUICHE ’Twill be in an hour. FIRST CADET Good!. . . They all sit down again and take up their games. DE GUICHE [to Carbon] Time must be gained. The Marshal will return. CARBON How gain it? DE GUICHE
You will all be good enough CYRANO Vengeance! oho! DE GUICHE
I do not say that, if I loved you well, CYRANO Permit that I express my gratitude. . . DE GUICHE
I know you love to fight against five score; He goes up with Carbon. CYRANO [to the cadets]
We shall add to the Gascon coat of arms, De Guiche speaks in a low voice with Carbon at the back. Orders are given. Preparations go forward. Cyrano goes up to Christian, who stands with crossed arms. CYRANO [putting his hand on Christian’s shoulder] Christian! CHRISTIAN [shaking his head] Roxane! CYRANO Alas! CHRISTIAN
At least, I’d send CYRANO
I had suspicion it would be to-day, CHRISTIAN Show! CYRANO Will you. . .? CHRISTIAN [taking the letter]
Ay! CYRANO What? CHRISTIAN This little spot! CYRANO [taking the letter, with an innocent look] A spot? CHRISTIAN A tear! CYRANO
Poets, at last,—by dint of counterfeiting— CHRISTIAN Wept? why? CYRANO
Oh!. . .death itself is hardly terrible,. . . CHRISTIAN [snatching the letter from him] Give me that letter! A rumor, far off in the camp. VOICE Of SENTINEL Who goes there? Halloo! Shots—voices—carriage-bells. CARBON What is it? A SENTINEL [on the rampart] ’Tis a carriage! All rush to see. CRIES
In the camp? Everyone is on the rampart, staring. The bells come nearer. DE GUICHE The King’s service? How? All descend and draw up in line. CARBON Uncover, all! DE GUICHE
The King’s! Draw up in line! The carriage enters at full speed covered with dust and mud. The curtains are drawn close. Two lackeys behind. It is pulled up suddenly. CARBON Beat a salute! A roll of drums. The cadets uncover. DE GUICHE Lower the carriage-steps! Two cadets rush forward. The door opens. ROXANE [jumping down from the carriage] Good-day! All are bowing to the ground, but at the sound of a woman’s voice every head is instantly raised. Act 4.V.The same. Roxane. DE GUICHE On the King’s service! You? ROXANE Ay,—King Love’s! What other king? CYRANO Great God! CHRISTIAN [rushing forward] Why have you come? ROXANE This siege—’tis too long! CHRISTIAN But why?. . . ROXANE I will tell you all! CYRANO [who, at the sound of her voice, has stood still, rooted to the ground, afraid to raise his eyes] My God! dare I look at her? DE GUICHE You cannot remain here! ROXANE [merrily]
But I say yes! Who will push a drum hither for me? CYRANO [coming up to her] But how, in Heaven’s name?. . . ROXANE
How found I the way to the army? It was simple enough, for I had
but to CYRANO But ’tis sheer madness! Where in the fiend’s name did you get through? ROXANE Where? Through the Spanish lines. FIRST CADET —For subtle craft, give me a woman! DE GUICHE But how did you pass through their lines? LE BRET Faith! that must have been a hard matter!. . . ROXANE
None too hard. I but drove quietly forward in my carriage, and
when some CARBON
True, that smile is a passport! But you must have been asked
frequently to ROXANE
Yes, frequently. Then I would answer, ‘I go to see my lover.’ At
that word CHRISTIAN But, Roxane. . . ROXANE
Forgive me that I said, ‘my lover!’ But bethink you, had I said
‘my CHRISTIAN But. . . ROXANE What ails you? DE GUICHE You must leave this place! ROXANE I? CYRANO And that instantly! LE BRET No time to lose. CHRISTIAN Indeed, you must. ROXANE But wherefore must I? CHRISTIAN [embarrassed] ’Tis that. . . CYRANO [the same] —In three quarters of an hour. . . DE GUICHE [the same] —Or for. . . CARBON [the same] It were best. . . LE BRET [the same] You might. . . ROXANE You are going to fight?—I stay here. ALL No, no! ROXANE
He is my husband! CHRISTIAN Why do you look at me thus? ROXANE I will tell you why! DE GUICHE [in despair] ’Tis a post of mortal danger! ROXANE [turning round] Mortal danger! CYRANO Proof enough, that he has put us here! ROXANE [to De Guiche] So, Sir, you would have made a widow of me? DE GUICHE Nay, on my oath. . . ROXANE
I will not go! I am reckless now, and I shall not stir from
here!—Besides, CYRANO Oh-ho! So our precieuse is a heroine! ROXANE Monsieur de Bergerac, I am your cousin. A CADET We will defend you well! ROXANE [more and more excited] I have no fear of that, my friends! ANOTHER [in ecstasy] The whole camp smells sweet of orris-root! ROXANE
And, by good luck, I have chosen a hat that will suit well with
the DE GUICHE
That is not to be brooked! I go to inspect the cannon, and shall
return. ROXANE Never! De Guiche goes out. Act 4.VI.The same, all but De Guiche. CHRISTIAN [entreatingly] Roxane! ROXANE No! FIRST CADET [to the others] She stays! ALL [hurrying, hustling each other, tidying themselves]
A comb!—Soap!—My uniform is torn!—A needle!—A ribbon!—Lend
your ROXANE [to Cyrano, who still pleads with her] No! Naught shall make me stir from this spot! CARBON [who, like the others, has been buckling, dusting,
brushing his hat, settling his plume, and drawing on his cuffs,
advances to Roxane, and ceremoniously]
It is perchance more seemly, since things are thus, that I
present to you THE CADET [with a low reverence] Madame. . . CARBON [continuing]
Baron de Casterac de Cahuzac,—Vidame de Malgouyre Estressac
Lesbas ROXANE But how many names have you each? BARON HILLOT Scores! CARBON [to Roxane] Pray, upon the hand that holds your kerchief. ROXANE [opens her hand, and the handkerchief falls] Why? The whole company start forward to pick it up. CARBON [quickly raising it]
My company had no flag. But now, by my faith, they will have the
fairest in ROXANE [smiling] ’Tis somewhat small. CARBON [tying the handkerchief on the staff of his lance] But—’tis of lace! A CADET [to the rest]
I could die happy, having seen so sweet a face, if I had
something in my CARBON [who has overheard, indignantly] Shame on you! What, talk of eating when a lovely woman!. . . ROXANE
But your camp air is keen; I myself am famished. Pasties, cold
fricassee, Consternation. A CADET All that? ANOTHER But where on earth find it? ROXANE [quietly] In my carriage. ALL How? ROXANE
Now serve up—carve! Look a little closer at my coachman,
gentlemen, and THE CADETS [rushing pellmell to the carriage]
’Tis Ragueneau! ROXANE [looking after them] Poor fellows! CYRANO [kissing her hand] Kind fairy! RAGUENEAU [standing on the box like a quack doctor at a fair] Gentlemen!. . . General delight. THE CADETS Bravo! bravo! RAGUENEAU
. . .The Spaniards, gazing on a lady so dainty fair, overlooked
the fare so Applause. CYRANO [in a whisper to Christian] Hark, Christian! RAGUENEAU
. . .And, occupied with gallantry, perceived not— Applause. The galantine passes from hand to hand. CYRANO [still whispering to Christian] Prythee, one word! RAGUENEAU
And Venus so attracted their eyes that Diana could secretly pass
by with— Enthusiasm. Twenty hands are held out to seize the shoulder of mutton. CYRANO [in a low whisper to Christian] I must speak to you! ROXANE [to the cadets, who come down, their arms laden with food] Put it all on the ground! She lays all out on the grass, aided by the two imperturbable lackeys who were behind the carriage. ROXANE [to Christian, just as Cyrano is drawing him apart] Come, make yourself of use! Christian comes to help her. Cyrano’s uneasiness increases. RAGUENEAU Truffled peacock! FIRST CADET [radiant, coming down, cutting a big slice of
ham]
By the mass! We shall not brave the last hazard without having
had a RAGUENEAU [throwing down the carriage cushions] The cushions are stuffed with ortolans! Hubbub. They tear open and turn out the contents of the cushions. Bursts of laughter—merriment. THIRD CADET Ah! Viedaze! RAGUENEAU [throwing down to the cadets bottles of red
wine]
Flasks of rubies!— ROXANE [throwing a folded tablecloth at Cyrano’s head] Unfold me that napkin!—Come, come! be nimble! RAGUENEAU [waving a lantern] Each of the carriage-lamps is a little larder! CYRANO [in a low voice to Christian, as they arrange the cloth together] I must speak with you ere you speak to her. RAGUENEAU My whip-handle is an Arles sausage! ROXANE [pouring out wine, helping]
Since we are to die, let the rest of the army shift for itself.
All for the FIRST CADET It is all so good!. . . ROXANE
Tut!—Red or white?—Some bread for Monsieur de Carbon!—a
knife! Pass your CYRANO [who follows her, his arms laden with dishes, helping her to wait on everybody] How I worship her! ROXANE [going up to Christian] What will you? CHRISTIAN Nothing. ROXANE Nay, nay, take this biscuit, steeped in muscat; come!. . .but two drops! CHRISTIAN [trying to detain her] Oh! tell me why you came? ROXANE Wait; my first duty is to these poor fellows.—Hush! In a few minutes. . . LE BRET [who had gone up to pass a loaf on the end of a lance to the sentry on the rampart] De Guiche! CYRANO
Quick! hide flasks, plates, pie-dishes, game-baskets!
Hurry!—Let us all In an instant all has been pushed into the tents, or hidden under doublets, cloaks, and beavers. De Guiche enters hurriedly—stops suddenly, sniffing the air. Silence. Act 4.VII.The same. De Guiche. DE GUICHE It smells good here. A CADET [humming] Lo! Lo-lo! DE GUICHE [looking at him] What is the matter?—You are very red. THE CADET
The matter?—Nothing!—’Tis my blood—boiling at the thought of
the coming ANOTHER Poum, poum—poum. . . DE GUICHE [turning round] What’s that? THE CADET [slightly drunk] Nothing!. . .’Tis a song!—a little. . . DE GUICHE You are merry, my friend! THE CADET The approach of danger is intoxicating! DE GUICHE [calling Carbon de Castel-Jaloux, to give him an
order]
Captain! I. . . CARBON [crimson in the face, hiding a bottle behind his back, with an evasive movement] Oh!. . . DE GUICHE
I have one cannon left, and have had it carried there— A CADET [reeling slightly] Charming attention! ANOTHER [with a gracious smile] Kind solicitude! DE GUICHE
How? they are all gone crazy? FIRST CADET Pooh! DE GUICHE [furious, going up to him] But. . . THE CADET Gascon cannons never recoil! DE GUICHE [taking him by the arm and shaking him] You are tipsy!—but what with? THE CADET [grandiloquently] —With the smell of powder! DE GUICHE [shrugging his shoulders and pushing him away, then going quickly to Roxane] Briefly, Madame, what decision do you deign to take? ROXANE I stay here. DE GUICHE You must fly! ROXANE No! I will stay. DE GUICHE Since things are thus, give me a musket, one of you! CARBON Wherefore? DE GUICHE Because I too—mean to remain. CYRANO At last! This is true valor, Sir! FIRST CADET Then you are Gascon after all, spite of your lace collar? ROXANE What is all this? DE GUICHE I leave no woman in peril. SECOND CADET [to the first] Hark you! Think you not we might give him something to eat? All the viands reappear as if by magic. DE GUICHE [whose eyes sparkle] Victuals! THE THIRD CADET Yes, you’ll see them coming from under every coat! DE GUICHE [controlling himself, haughtily] Do you think I will eat your leavings? CYRANO [saluting him] You make progress. DE GUICHE [proudly, with a light touch of accent on the word ‘breaking’] I will fight without br-r-eaking my fast! FIRST CADET [with wild delight] Br-r-r-eaking! He has got the accent! DE GUICHE [laughing] I? THE CADET ’Tis a Gascon! All begin to dance. CARBON DE CASTEL-JALOUX [who had disappeared behind the rampart, reappearing on the ridge] I have drawn my pikemen up in line. They are a resolute troop. He points to a row of pikes, the tops of which are seen over the ridge. DE GUICHE [bowing to Roxane] Will you accept my hand, and accompany me while I review them? She takes it, and they go up toward the rampart. All uncover and follow them. CHRISTIAN [going to Cyrano, eagerly] Tell me quickly! As Roxane appears on the ridge, the tops of the lances disappear, lowered for the salute, and a shout is raised. She bows. THE PIKEMEN [outside] Vivat! CHRISTIAN What is this secret? CYRANO If Roxane should. . . CHRISTIAN Should?. . . CYRANO Speak of the letters?. . . CHRISTIAN Yes, I know!. . . CYRANO Do not spoil all by seeming surprised. . . CHRISTIAN At what? CYRANO
I must explain to you!. . .Oh! ’tis no great matter—I but
thought of it to- CHRISTIAN Tell quickly! CYRANO You have. . .written to her oftener than you think. . . CHRISTIAN How so? CYRANO
Thus, ’faith! I had taken it in hand to express your flame for
you!. . .At CHRISTIAN Ah!. . . CYRANO ’Tis simple enough! CHRISTIAN But how did you contrive, since we have been cut off, thus. . .to?. . . CYRANO . . .Oh! before dawn. . .I was able to get through. . . CHRISTIAN [folding his arms]
That was simple, too? And how oft, pray you, have I written?. .
.Twice in CYRANO More often still. CHRISTIAN What! Every day? CYRANO Yes, every day,—twice. CHRISTIAN [violently] And that became so mad a joy for you, that you braved death. . . CYRANO [seeing Roxane returning] Hush! Not before her! He goes hurriedly into his tent. Act 4.VIII.Roxane, Christian. In the distance cadets coming and going. Carbon and De Guiche give orders. ROXANE [running up to Christian] Ah, Christian, at last!. . . CHRISTIAN [taking her hands]
Now tell me why— ROXANE Love, your letters brought me here! CHRISTIAN What say you? ROXANE
’Tis your fault if I ran risks! CHRISTIAN
What!—for a few ROXANE
Hold your peace! CHRISTIAN But. . . ROXANE
I read, read again—grew faint for love; CHRISTIAN
A love sincere! ROXANE Ay, that it can! CHRISTIAN You come. . .? ROXANE
O, Christian, my true lord, I come— CHRISTIAN [horror-stricken] Roxane! ROXANE
And later, love—less frivolous— CHRISTIAN And now? ROXANE
Ah! you yourself have triumphed o’er yourself, CHRISTIAN [stepping backward] Roxane! ROXANE
Be happy. To be loved for beauty— CHRISTIAN Oh!. . . ROXANE You are doubtful of such victory? CHRISTIAN [pained] Roxane! ROXANE
I see you cannot yet believe it. CHRISTIAN
I do not ask such love as that! ROXANE
For that CHRISTIAN No! the first love was best! ROXANE
Ah! how you err! CHRISTIAN Hush! ROXANE
I should love still! CHRISTIAN Say not so! ROXANE Ay, I say it! CHRISTIAN Ugly? How? ROXANE Ugly! I swear I’d love you still! CHRISTIAN My God! ROXANE Are you content at last? CHRISTIAN [in a choked voice] Ay!. . . ROXANE What is wrong? CHRISTIAN [gently pushing her away] Nothing. . .I have two words to say:—one second. . . ROXANE But?. . . CHRISTIAN [pointing to the cadets]
Those poor fellows, shortly doomed to death,— ROXANE [deeply affected] Dear Christian!. . . She goes up to the cadets, who respectfully crowd round her. Act 4.IX.Christian, Cyrano. At back Roxane talking to Carbon and some cadets. CHRISTIAN [calling toward Cyrano’s tent] Cyrano! CYRANO [reappearing, fully armed] What? Why so pale? CHRISTIAN She does not love me! CYRANO What? CHRISTIAN ’Tis you she loves! CYRANO No! CHRISTIAN —For she loves me only for my soul! CYRANO Truly? CHRISTIAN
Yes! Thus—you see, that soul is you,. . . CYRANO I? CHRISTIAN Oh, I know it! CYRANO Ay, ’tis true! CHRISTIAN
You love CYRANO Ay! and worse! CHRISTIAN Then tell her so! CYRANO No! CHRISTIAN And why not? CYRANO Look at my face!—be answered! CHRISTIAN She’d love me—were I ugly. CYRANO Said she so? CHRISTIAN Ay! in those words! CYRANO
I’m glad she told you that! CHRISTIAN That I intend discovering! CYRANO No! I beg! CHRISTIAN Ay! she shall choose between us!—Tell her all! CYRANO No! no! I will not have it! Spare me this! CHRISTIAN
Because my face is haply fair, shall I CYRANO
And I,—because by Nature’s freak I have CHRISTIAN Tell all! CYRANO It is ill done to tempt me thus! CHRISTIAN
Too long I’ve borne about within myself CYRANO Christian! CHRISTIAN
Or union, without witness—secret— CYRANO My God!—he still persists! CHRISTIAN
I will be loved myself—or not at all! CYRANO It will be you. CHRISTIAN
Pray God! CYRANO No! no! ROXANE [coming up quickly] What? CHRISTIAN
Cyrano has things She hastens to Cyrano. Christian goes out. Act 4.X.Roxane, Cyrano. Then Le Bret, Carbon de Castel-Jaloux, the cadets, Ragueneau, De Guiche, etc. ROXANE Important, how? CYRANO [in despair. to Roxane]
He’s gone! ’Tis naught!—Oh, you know how he sees ROXANE [warmly]
Did he doubt CYRANO [taking her hand] But are you sure you told him all the truth? ROXANE Yes, I would love him were he. . . She hesitates. CYRANO
Does that word ROXANE I. . . CYRANO [smiling sadly]
’Twill not hurt me! Say it! If he were ROXANE
Yes, ugly! CYRANO [ardently] Hideous! ROXANE Hideous! yes! CYRANO Disfigured. ROXANE Ay! CYRANO Grotesque? ROXANE He could not be grotesque to me! CYRANO You’d love the same?. . . ROXANE The same—nay, even more! CYRANO [losing command over himself—aside]
My God! it’s true, perchance, love waits me there! LE BRET [entering hurriedly—to Cyrano] Cyrano! CYRANO [turning round] What? LE BRET Hush! He whispers something to him. CYRANO [letting go Roxane’s hand and exclaiming] Ah, God! ROXANE What is it? CYRANO [to himself—stunned] All is over now. Renewed reports. ROXANE What is the matter? Hark! another shot! She goes up to look outside. CYRANO It is too late, now I can never tell! ROXANE [trying to rush out] What has chanced? CYRANO [rushing to stop her] Nothing! Some cadets enter, trying to hide something they are carrying, and close round it to prevent Roxane approaching. ROXANE
And those men? CYRANO
What was I saying? Nothing now, I swear! ROXANE
Were? She rushes up, pushing every one aside. CYRANO All is over now! ROXANE [seeing Christian lying on the ground, wrapped in his cloak] O Christian! LE BRET [to Cyrano] Struck by first shot of the enemy! Roxane flings herself down by Christian. Fresh reports of cannon—clash of arms—clamor—beating of drums. CARBON [with sword in the air] O come! Your muskets. Followed by the cadets, he passes to the other side of the ramparts. ROXANE Christian! THE VOICE OF CARBON [from the other side] Ho! make haste! ROXANE Christian! CARBON FORM LINE! ROXANE Christian! CARBON HANDLE YOUR MATCH! Ragueneau rushes up, bringing water in a helmet. CHRISTIAN [in a dying voice] Roxane! CYRANO [quickly, whispering into Christian’s ear, while Roxane distractedly tears a piece of linen from his breast, which she dips into the water, trying to stanch the bleeding] I told her all. She loves you still. Christian closes his eyes. ROXANE How, my sweet love? CARBON DRAW RAMRODS! ROXANE [to Cyrano] He is not dead? CARBON OPEN YOUR CHARGES WITH YOUR TEETH! ROXANE
His cheek CARBON READY! PRESENT! ROXANE [seeing a letter in Christian’s doublet]
A letter!. . . She opens it. CYRANO [aside] My letter! CARBON FIRE! Musket reports—shouts—noise of battle. CYRANO [trying to disengage his hand, which Roxane on her knees is holding] But, Roxane, hark, they fight! ROXANE [detaining him]
Stay yet awhile. CYRANO [standing up—bareheaded] Ay, Roxane. ROXANE An inspired poet? CYRANO Ay, Roxane. ROXANE And a mind sublime? CYRANO Oh, yes! ROXANE
A heart too deep for common minds to plumb, CYRANO [firmly] Ay, Roxane. ROXANE [flinging herself on the dead body] Dead, my love! CYRANO [aside—drawing his sword]
Ay, and let me die to-day, Sounds of trumpets in the distance. DE GUICHE [appearing on the ramparts—bareheaded—with a wound
on his forehead—in a voice of thunder]
It is the signal! Trumpet flourishes! ROXANE
See, there is blood A VOICE [outside—shouting] Surrender! VOICE OF CADETS No! RAGUENEAU [standing on the top of his carriage, watches the battle over the edge of the ramparts] The danger’s ever greater! CYRANO [to De Guiche—pointing to Roxane]
I will charge! ROXANE [kissing the letter—in a half-extinguished voice] O God! his tears! his blood!. . . RAGUENEAU [jumping down from the carriage and rushing toward her] She’s swooned away! DE GUICHE [on the rampart—to the cadets—with fury] Stand fast! A VOICE [outside] Lay down your arms! THE CADETS No! CYRANO [to De Guiche]
Now that you have proved your valor, Sir, DE GUICHE [rushing to Roxane, and carrying her away in his
arms]
So be it! Gain but time, CYRANO
Good. Tumult. Shouts. Cadets reappear, wounded, falling on the scene. Cyrano, rushing to the battle, is stopped by Carbon de Castel-Jaloux, who is streaming with blood. CARBON We are breaking! I am wounded—wounded twice! CYRANO [shouting to the Gascons]
GASCONS! HO, GASCONS! NEVER TURN YOUR BACKS! The fife plays. The wounded try to rise. Some cadets, falling one over the other down the slope, group themselves round Cyrano and the little flag. The carriage is crowded with men inside and outside, and, bristling with arquebuses, is turned into a fortress. A CADET [appearing on the crest, beaten backward, but still
fighting, cries]: CYRANO
Let us salute them! General discharge. A CRY IN THE ENEMY’S RANKS Fire! A deadly answering volley. The cadets fall on all sides. A SPANISH OFFICER [uncovering] Who are these men who rush on death? CYRANO [reciting, erect, amid a storm of bullets]
The bold Cadets of Gascony, His voice is drowned in the battle. Curtain. Act V.Cyrano’s Gazette. Fifteen years later, in 1655. Park of the Sisters of the Holy Cross in Paris. Magnificent trees. On the left the house: broad steps on to which open several doors. An enormous plane tree in the middle of the stage, standing alone. On the right, among big boxwood trees, a semicircular stone bench. The whole background of the stage is crossed by an alley of chestnut trees leading on the right hand to the door of a chapel seen through the branches. Through the double row of trees of this alley are seen lawns, other alleys, clusters of trees, winding of the park, the sky. The chapel opens by a little side door on to a colonnade which is wreathed with autumn leaves, and is lost to view a little farther on in the right-hand foreground behind the boxwood. It is autumn. All the foliage is red against the fresh green of the lawns. The green boxwood and yews stand out dark. Under each tree a patch of yellow leaves. The stage is strewn with dead leaves, which rustle under foot in the alleys, and half cover the steps and benches. Between the benches on the right hand and the tree a large embroidery frame, in front of which a little chair has been set. Baskets full of skeins and balls of wool. A tapestry begun. At the rising of the curtains nuns are walking to and fro in the park; some are seated on the bench around an older Sister. The leaves are falling. Act 5.I.Mother Marguerite, Sister Martha, Sister Claire, other sisters. SISTER MARTHA [to Mother Marguerite]
Sister Claire glanced in the mirror, once—nay, twice, to see if
her coif MOTHER MARGUERITE [to Sister Claire] ’Tis not well. SISTER CLAIRE
But I saw Sister Martha take a plum MOTHER MARGUERITE [to Sister Martha] That was ill done, my sister. SISTER CLAIRE A little glance! SISTER MARTHA And such a little plum! MOTHER MARGUERITE I shall tell this to Monsieur Cyrano. SISTER CLAIRE Nay, prithee do not!—he will mock! SISTER MARTHA He’ll say we nuns are vain! SISTER CLAIRE And greedy! MOTHER MARGUERITE [smiling] Ay, and kind! SISTER CLAIRE
Is it not true, pray, Mother Marguerite, MOTHER MARGUERITE
Ay! and more! SISTER MARTHA
He only has the skill to turn her mind ALL THE SISTERS
He is so droll!—It’s cheerful when he comes!— SISTER MARTHA But, he is not a faithful Catholic! SISTER CLAIRE We will convert him! THE SISTERS Yes! Yes! MOTHER MARGUERITE
I forbid, SISTER MARTHA But. . .God. . . MOTHER MARGUERITE Nay, never fear! God knows him well! SISTER MARTHA
But—every Saturday, when he arrives, MOTHER MARGUERITE
Ah! says he so? Well, the last time he came SISTER MARTHA Mother! MOTHER MARGUERITE He’s poor. SISTER MARTHA Who told you so, dear Mother? MOTHER MARGUERITE Monsieur Le Bret. SISTER MARTHA None help him? MOTHER MARGUERITE
He permits not. SISTER MARTHA [to Sister Claire, in a low voice] The Marshal of Grammont? SISTER CLAIRE [looking at him] ’Tis he, I think. SISTER MARTHA ’Tis many months now since he came to see her. THE SISTERS He is so busy!—The Court,—the camp!. . . SISTER CLAIRE The world! They go out. De Guiche and Roxane come forward in silence, and stop close to the embroidery frame. Act 5.II.Roxane; the Duke de Grammont, formerly Count de Guiche. Then Le Bret and Ragueneau. THE DUKE
And you stay here still—ever vainly fair, ROXANE Ever. THE DUKE Still faithful? ROXANE Still. THE DUKE [after a pause] Am I forgiven? ROXANE Ay, since I am here. Another pause. THE DUKE His was a soul, you say?. . . ROXANE Ah!—when you knew him! THE DUKE
Ah, may be!. . .I, perchance, too little knew him! ROXANE Hung from this chain, a gentle scapulary. THE DUKE And, dead, you love him still? ROXANE
At times,—meseems THE DUKE [after another pause] Cyrano comes to see you? ROXANE
Often, ay. LE BRET Ill!—very ill. THE DUKE How? ROXANE [to the Duke] He exaggerates! LE BRET
All that I prophesied: desertion, want!. . . ROXANE
Ah! but his sword still holds them all in check; THE DUKE [shaking his head] Time will show! LE BRET
Ah, but I fear for him—not man’s attack,— THE DUKE
Ay, there is one who has no prize of Fortune!— LE BRET [with a bitter smile] My Lord Marshal!. . . THE DUKE
Pity him not! He has lived out his vows, LE BRET [in the same tone] My Lord!. . . THE DUKE [haughtily]
True! I have all, and he has naught;. . . ROXANE I go with you. The Duke bows to Le Bret, and goes with Roxane toward the steps. THE DUKE [pausing, while she goes up]
Ay, true,—I envy him. ROXANE [ironically] You are pensive? THE DUKE
True! I am! LE BRET [raising his arms to heaven]
Prudent! He!. . . ROXANE [who has stayed on the steps, to a sister who comes toward her] What is it? THE SISTER Ragueneau would see you, Madame. ROXANE
Let him come. LE BRET Bathing-man. . . ROXANE Then actor. . . LE BRET Beadle. . . ROXANE Wig-maker. . . LE BRET Teacher of the lute. . . ROXANE What will he be to-day, by chance? RAGUENEAU [entering hurriedly]
Ah! Madame! ROXANE [smiling]
Tell all your miseries RAGUENEAU But, Madame. . . Roxane goes out with the Duke. Ragueneau goes toward Le Bret. Act 5.III.Le Bret, Ragueneau. RAGUENEAU
Since you are here, ’tis best she should not know! LE BRET Cowards! O Cyrano! RAGUENEAU I ran—I saw. . . LE BRET ’Tis hideous! RAGUENEAU
Saw our poet, Sir—our friend— LE BRET He’s dead? RAGUENEAU
No—but—I bore him to his room. . . LE BRET He suffers? RAGUENEAU No, his consciousness has flown. LE BRET Saw you a doctor? RAGUENEAU One was kind—he came. LE BRET
My poor Cyrano!—We must not tell this RAGUENEAU
Said,—what, I know not—fever, meningitis!— LE BRET [dragging him toward the right] Come! Through the chapel! ’Tis the quickest way! ROXANE [appearing on the steps, and seeing Le Bret go away by
the colonnade leading to the chapel door]
Monsieur le Bret! She descends the steps. Act 5.IV.Roxane alone. Two sisters, for a moment. ROXANE
Ah! what a beauty in September’s close! SISTER MARTHA It is the parlor’s best! ROXANE
Thanks, sister. A SISTER [coming to the steps] Monsieur de Bergerac. Act 5.V.Roxane, Cyrano and, for a moment, Sister Martha. ROXANE [without turning round]
What was I saying?. . . CYRANO [who has succeeded in reaching the chair, and has seated himself—in a lively voice, which is in great contrast with his pale face] Ay! It is villainous! I raged—was stayed. . . ROXANE By?. . . CYRANO By a bold, unwelcome visitor. ROXANE [absently, working] Some creditor? CYRANO
Ay, cousin,—the last creditor ROXANE
And you CYRANO
No, not yet! I put it off; ROXANE [carelessly]
Oh, well, a creditor can always wait! CYRANO Haply, perforce, I quit you ere it falls! He shuts his eyes, and is silent for a moment. Sister Martha crosses the park from the chapel to the flight of steps. Roxane, seeing her, signs to her to approach. ROXANE [to Cyrano] How now? You have not teased the Sister? CYRANO [hastily opening his eyes]
True! SISTER MARTHA [who makes a movement of astonishment on seeing his face] Oh! CYRANO [in a whisper, pointing to Roxane]
Hush! ’tis naught!— SISTER MARTHA [aside]
I know, I know! CYRANO Ay, ay! SISTER MARTHA There, see! You are more reasonable to-day! ROXANE [who hears them whispering] The Sister would convert you? SISTER MARTHA Nay, not I! CYRANO
Hold! but it’s true! You preach to me no more, ROXANE Oh! oh! CYRANO [laughing] Good Sister Martha is struck dumb! SISTER MARTHA [gently] I did not wait your leave to pray for you. She goes out. CYRANO [turning to Roxane, who is still bending over her
work]
That tapestry! Beshrew me if my eyes ROXANE
I was sure A light breeze causes the leaves to fall. CYRANO The autumn leaves! ROXANE [lifting her head, and looking down the distant
alley]
Soft golden brown, like a Venetian’s hair. CYRANO
Ay, see how brave they fall, ROXANE What, melancholy—you? CYRANO [collecting himself] Nay, nay, Roxane! ROXANE
Then let the dead leaves fall the way they will. . . CYRANO Listen. ROXANE Ah! CYRANO [growing whiter and whiter]
Saturday ROXANE
I bid CYRANO Monday—not much—Claire changed protector. ROXANE Oh! CYRANO [whose face changes more and more]
Tuesday, the Court repaired to Fontainebleau. He closes his eyes. His head falls forward. Silence. ROXANE [surprised at his voice ceasing, turns round, looks at
him, and rising, terrified]
He swoons! CYRANO [opening his eyes, in an unconcerned voice]
What is this? ROXANE But. . . CYRANO
That old wound ROXANE Dear friend! CYRANO
’Tis nothing, ’twill pass soon; ROXANE
Each of us has his wound; ay, I have mine,— Twilight begins to fall. CYRANO
His letter! Ah! you promised me one day ROXANE What would you?—His letter? CYRANO Yes, I would fain,—to-day. . . ROXANE [giving the bag hung at her neck] See! here it is! CYRANO [taking it] Have I your leave to open? ROXANE Open—read! She comes back to her tapestry frame, folds it up, sorts her wools. CYRANO [reading]
‘Roxane, adieu! I soon must die! ROXANE But how you read that letter! One would think. . . CYRANO [continuing to read]
‘My life, my love, my jewel, my sweet, The shades of evening fall imperceptibly. ROXANE
You read in such a voice—so strange—and yet— She comes nearer very softly, without his perceiving it, passes behind his chair, and, noiselessly leaning over him, looks at the letter. The darkness deepens. CYRANO
‘Here, dying, and there, in the land on high, ROXANE [putting her hand on his shoulder]
How can you read? It is too dark to see! CYRANO Roxane! ROXANE ’Twas you! CYRANO No, never; Roxane, no! ROXANE I should have guessed, each time he said my name! CYRANO No, it was not I! ROXANE It was you! CYRANO I swear! ROXANE
I see through all the generous counterfeit— CYRANO No. ROXANE
The sweet, mad love-words! CYRANO No! ROXANE The voice that thrilled the night—you, you! CYRANO I swear you err. ROXANE The soul—it was your soul! CYRANO I loved you not. ROXANE You loved me not? CYRANO ’Twas he! ROXANE You loved me! CYRANO No! ROXANE See! how you falter now! CYRANO No, my sweet love, I never loved you! ROXANE
Ah! CYRANO [holding out the letter to her] The bloodstains were his. ROXANE
Why, then, that noble silence,—kept so long— CYRANO Why?. . . Le Bret and Ragueneau enter running. Act 5.VI.The same. Le Bret and Ragueneau. LE BRET What madness! Here? I knew it well! CYRANO [smiling and sitting up] What now? LE BRET He has brought his death by coming, Madame. ROXANE
God! CYRANO
Why, true! It interrupted the ‘Gazette:’ He takes off his hat; they see his head bandaged. ROXANE
What says he? Cyrano!—His head all bound! CYRANO
‘To be struck down, RAGUENEAU Ah, Monsieur!. . . CYRANO [holding out his hand to him]
Ragueneau, RAGUENEAU [amid his tears] Trim the lights for Moliere’s stage. CYRANO Moliere! RAGUENEAU
Yes; but I shall leave to-morrow. LE BRET What! a whole scene? RAGUENEAU
Oh, yes, indeed, Monsieur, LE BRET Moliere has stolen that? CYRANO
Tut! He did well!. . . RAGUENEAU [sobbing] Ah! how they laughed! CYRANO
Look you, it was my life ROXANE [rising and calling] Sister! Sister! CYRANO [holding her fast]
Call no one. Leave me not; ROXANE Live, for I love you! CYRANO
No, In fairy tales ROXANE I have marred your life—I, I! CYRANO
You blessed my life! LE BRET [pointing to the moon, which is seen between the trees] Your other lady-love is come. CYRANO [smiling] I see. ROXANE I loved but once, yet twice I lose my love! CYRANO
Hark you, Le Bret! I soon shall reach the moon. LE BRET What are you saying? CYRANO
I tell you, it is there, LE BRET [rebelliously]
No, no! It is too clumsy, too unjust! CYRANO Hark to Le Bret, who scolds! LE BRET [weeping] Dear friend. . . CYRANO [starting up, his eyes wild]
What ho! Cadets of Gascony! LE BRET His science still—he raves! CYRANO
Copernicus ROXANE Oh! CYRANO
Mais que diable allait-il faire, ROXANE I swear it you!. . . CYRANO [shivering violently, then suddenly rising]
Not there! what, seated?—no! LE BRET Cyrano! ROXANE [half fainting] Cyrano! All shrink back in terror. CYRANO
Why, I well believe He springs forward, his sword raised; it falls from his hand; he staggers, falls back into the arms of Le Bret and Ragueneau. ROXANE [bending and kissing his forehead] ’Tis?. . . CYRANO [opening his eyes, recognizing her, and smiling] MY PANACHE. Curtain. THE END 355 W Olive Avenue, Suite 207, Sunnyvale, CA 94086 |
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