Chapter VI: Part II (3)

He has exiled my mother!

DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.

But he thinks He does your will. He's faithful. He is firm And sure.

THE KING.

I hate him! He is in my way. He crushes me! I am not master here-- Not free! And yet I might be something. Ah, When he walks o'er me with such heavy tread, Does he not fear to rouse a slumbering king? For trembling near me, be it ne'er so high, His fortune vacillates with every breath I draw, and all would crumble at a word, Did I wish loud, what I wish in my heart! [_A pause._ That man makes good men bad, and bad men vile! The kingdom, like the king, already sick, Grows worse. Without is cardinal, within Is cardinal; no king is anywhere! He torments Austria, lets any one Capture my vessels in Gascony's Bay. Allies me with Gustavus Adolphus! What more? I do not know. He's everywhere: As if he were soul of the king, he fills My kingdom, and my family, and me. I am much to be pitied. [Going to window. Always rain.

DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.

Your Majesty is suffering?

THE KING.

I am bored. [_A pause._ I am the first in France and yet the last! I'd change my lot to lead a poacher's life-- To hunt all day; to have no cares to fret The pleasures of the chase; to sleep 'neath trees; To laugh at the King's officers, to sing During the storm; to live as freely in the woods As birds live in the air. The peasant in His hut, at least, is master and is king; But with that scarlet man forever there, Forever stern and cold, and speaking thus, "This must be your good pleasure, sire!" Oh, outrage! This man conceals me from my people's gaze. As with young children, he hides me beneath His robe; and when a passer-by asks, "Who Is that behind the Cardinal?" they say, "The King!" Then there are new lists every day. Last week the Huguenots; the duelists To-day! He wants their heads. Such a great crime-- A duel! But the heads; what does he do With them?

[_Duke de Bellegarde stamps his foot. Enter Marquis de Nangis and Marion._

SCENE VII

_The same. Marion, Marquis de Nangis. Marquis de Nangis advances with his escort to within a few steps of The King; he kneels there. Marion falls on her knees at the door_

MARQUIS DE NANGIS.

Justice, my sire.

THE KING.

Against whom? Speak!

MARQUIS DE NANGIS.

Against a cruel tyrant--against Armand, Called here the cardinal-minister!

MARION.

Mercy,
My sire!

THE KING.

For whom?

MARION.

For Didier!

MARQUIS DE NANGIS.

And for him,
Gaspard de Saverny!

THE KING.

I've heard those names.

MARQUIS DE NANGIS.

Justice and mercy, sire!

THE KING.

What title?

MARQUIS DE NANGIS.

Sire,
I am uncle of one.

THE KING.

And you?

MARION.

I'm sister
Unto the other!

THE KING.

Why do you come here,
Sister and uncle?

MARQUIS DE NANGIS (_indicating first one of The King's hands, then the other_).

To entreat mercy From this hand, and justice from that! My sire, I, William, Marquis de Nangis, Captain Of Hundred Lances, Baron of Mountain And Field, do make appeal to my two lords-- The King of France and God, for justice 'gainst Armand du Plessis, Cardinal Richelieu. Gaspard de Saverny, for whom I make This prayer, is my nephew--

MARION (_low to Marquis de Nangis_).

Oh, speak for both,
My lord!

MARQUIS DE NANGIS (_continuing_).

Last month he had a duel with A captain, a young nobleman, Didier. Of parentage uncertain. 'Twas a fault. They were too rash and brave. The minister Had stationed sergeants--

THE KING.

Yes, I know the story.
Well, what have you to say?

MARQUIS DE NANGIS.

That 'tis high time You thought about these things! The Cardinal-Duke Has more than one disastrous scheme afoot. He drinks the best blood of your subjects, sire! Your father, Henry IV., of royal heart, Would not have sacrificed his nobles thus! He never struck them down without dire need! Well served by them, he sought to guard them well. He knew good soldiers had more use in them Than trunkless heads. He knew their worth in war, This soldier-king whose doublet smelled of battle! Great days were those. I shared, I honor them! A few of the old race are living yet. Never could priest have touched one of those lords. There was no selling of a great head cheap! Sire, in these treacherous days to which we've come, Trust an old man, keep a few nobles by. Perhaps, in your turn, you will need their help. The time may come when you will groan to think Of all the honors lavished on La Grève! Then, sadly, your regretful eyes will seek Those lords indomitably brave and true, Who, dead so long, had still been young to-day. The country's heart yet pants with civil war; The tocsin of past years re-echoes yet, Be saving of the executioner's arm! He is the one should sheathe his sword, not we! Be miserly with scaffolds, O my sire! 'Twill be a woful thing some later day To mourn this great man's help, who hangs to-day A whitening skeleton on gallows-tree! For blood, my king, is no good, wholesome dew. You'll reap no crops from irrigated Grève! The people will avoid the sight of kings. That flattering voice which tells you all is well, Tells you you're son of Henry IV., and Bourbon-- That voice, my sire, however high it soars, Can never drown the thud of falling heads! Take my advice: play not this costly game. You, King, are bound to look God in the face, Hark to the words of fate, ere it rebels! War is a nobler thing than massacre! 'Tis not a prosperous nor joyful State When headsmen have more work than soldiers have! He for our country is a pastor hard, Who dares collect his tithes in slaughtered heads! Look! this proud lord of inhumanity Who holds your scepter has blood-covered hands!

THE KING.

The Cardinal's my friend! Who loves me must Love him!

MARQUIS DE NANGIS.

Sire!

THE KING.

Silence! He's my second self.

MARQUIS DE NANGIS.

Sire!

THE KING.

Bring no more such griefs to trouble me!

[_Showing his hair, which is beginning to turn gray._

Petitioners like you make these gray hairs!

MARQUIS DE NANGIS.

An old man, sire; a woman, sire, who weeps! A word from you is life or death for us!

THE KING.

What do you ask?

MARQUIS DE NANGIS.

Pardon for my Gaspard!

MARION.

Pardon for Didier!

THE KING.

Pardons of a king
Are often thefts from justice!

MARION.

Oh, no, sire! Since God himself is merciful, you need Not fear! Have pity! Two young, thoughtless men, Pushed by this duel o'er a precipice To die! Good God! to die upon the gallows! You will have pity, won't you? I don't know How people talk to kings--I'm but a woman; To weep so much perhaps is wrong. But oh, A monster is that cardinal of yours. Why does he hate them? They did naught to him. He never saw my Didier. All who do Must love him! They're so young--these two! To die For just a duel! Think about their mothers. Oh, it is horrible! You will not do it, sire! We women cannot talk as well as men. We've only cries and tears and knees, which bend And totter as kings turn their eyes on us. They were in fault, of course! But if they broke Your law, you can forgive it! What is youth? Young people are so heedless! For a look, A word, a trifle, anything or nothing, They always lose their heads like that! Such things Are happening every day. Each noble, here, He knows it. Ask them, sire! Is it not true, My lords? Oh, frightful hour of agony! To know with one word you can save two lives! I'd love you all my life, sire, if you would Have mercy--mercy, God! If I knew how, I'd talk so that you'd have to say that word. You'd pardon them; you'd say, "I must console That woman, for her Didier is her soul." I suffocate, sire. Pity, pity me!

THE KING.

Who is this woman?

MARION.

She's a sister, sire, Who trembles at your feet. You owe something Unto your people!

THE KING.

Yes! I owe myself
To them, and dueling does grievous harm.

MARION.

You should have pity!

THE KING.

And obedience, too!

MARQUIS DE NANGIS.

Two boys of twenty years! Think of it well! Their years together are but half of mine!

MARION.

Your Majesty, you have a mother, wife, A son--some one at least who's dear to you! A brother? Then have pity for a sister!

THE KING.

No, I have not a brother! [_Reflects a moment._
Yes, _Monsieur_!

[_Perceiving the escort of Marquis de Nangis._

Well, my lord marquis, what is this brigade? Are we besieged, or off to the Crusades? To bring your guards thus boldly in my sight, Are you a duke and peer?

MARQUIS DE NANGIS.

I'm better, sire, Than any duke and peer, created for mere show! I'm Breton baron of four baronies.

DUKE DE BELLEGARDE (_aside_).

His pride is great, and here, unfortunate!

THE KING.

Good! To your manors carry back your rights, And leave us ours within our own domain. We are justiciary!

MARQUIS DE NANGIS (_shuddering_).

Sire, reflect! Think of their age, their expiated fault! [_Falling on his knees._ The pride of an old man, who, prostrate, kneels! Have mercy!

[_The King makes an abrupt sign of anger and refusal._

I was comrade to Henry! Your father and our father! I was there When he--that monster--struck the fatal blow. 'Til night I watched beside my royal dead: It was my duty. I have seen my father And my six brothers fall 'neath rival factions; I have lost the wife who loved me. Now The old man standing here is like a victim Whom a hard executioner, for sport, Has bound unto the wheel the whole long day. My master, God has broken every limb With His great iron rod! 'Tis night-time now, And I've received the final blow! Farewell, My king! God keep you!

[_He makes a profound obeisance, and exits. Marion lifts herself with difficulty, and, staggering, falls on the threshold of the gilt door of The King's private room._

THE KING (_to Duke de Bellegarde, wiping his eyes and watching the retreating figure of Marquis de Nangis_).

A sad interview! Ah, not to weaken, kings must watch themselves! To do right is not easy. I was touched.

[_Reflects for a moment, then interrupts himself suddenly._

No pardoning to-day, for yesterday I sinned too much!

[_Approaching Duke de Bellegarde._

Before he came, my lord, You said bold things, which may be bad for you When I report to my lord cardinal The conversation we have had. I'm sorry For you, Duke. In the future, have more care! I slept so wretchedly, my poor Bellegarde.

[_With a gesture dismissing Courtiers and Guards._

Pray leave us, gentlemen!
[_To L'Angely._] Stay, you!

[_All go out except Marion, whom The King does not see. Duke de Bellegarde sees her crouching on the threshold of the door and goes to her._

DUKE DE BELLEGARDE (_low to Marion_).

My child, You can't remain here, crouching by this door; What are you doing like a statue there? Get up and go away!

MARION.

I'm waiting here
For them to kill me!

L'ANGELY (_low to Duke de Bellegarde_).

Leave her there, my lord!
[_Low to Marion._] Remain!

[_He returns to The King, who is seated in the great armchair and is in a profound reverie._

SCENE VIII

The King, L'Angely

THE KING (_sighing deeply_).

Ah! L'Angely, my heart is sick. 'Tis full of bitterness. I cannot smile. You, only, have the power to cheer me. Come! You stand in no awe of my majesty. Come, throw a glint of pleasure in my soul. [_A pause._

L'ANGELY.

Life is a bitter thing, your Majesty.

THE KING.

Alas!

L'ANGELY.

Man is a breath ephemeral!

THE KING.

A breath, and nothing more!

L'ANGELY.

Unfortunate Is any one who is both man and king. Is it not true?

THE KING.

A double burden--yes.

L'ANGELY.

And better far than life, sire, is the tomb, If but its gloom is deep enough!

THE KING.

I've thought
That always!

L'ANGELY.

To be dead or unborn is
The only happiness. Yes, man's condemned!

THE KING.

You give me pleasure when you talk like this!
[_A silence._

L'ANGELY.

Once in the tomb, think you one e'er gets out?

THE KING (_whose sadness has increased with the Fool's words_).

We'll know that later. I wish I were there! [_Silence._ Fool, I'm unhappy! Do you comprehend?

L'ANGELY.

I see it in your face so thin and worn, And in your mourning--

THE KING.

Ah, why should I laugh? Your tricks are lost on me! What use is life To you? The fine profession! Jester to the King! Bell out of tune, a jumping-jack to play with, Whose half-cracked laugh is but a poor grimace! What is there in the world for you, poor toy? Why do you live?

L'ANGELY.

For curiosity. But you--why should you live? I pity you! I'd sooner be a woman than a king Like you. I'm but a jumping-jack whose string You hold; but underneath your royal coat There's hid a tauter string, a strong arm holds. Better a jumping-jack in a king's hands Than in a priest's, my sire. [_Silence._

THE KING (_thinking, growing more and more sad_).

You speak the truth, Although you laugh. He is a fearful man! Has Satan made himself a cardinal? What if 'twere Satan who possessed my soul! What say you?

L'ANGELY.

I have often had that thought
Myself!

THE KING.

We must not speak thus. 'Tis a sin! Behold, how dire misfortune follows me! I had some Spanish cormorants. I come To this place--not a drop of water here For fishing! In the country! Not a pond In this accursed Chambord large enough To drown a flesh-worm! When I wish to hunt-- The sea! And when I wish to fish--the fields! Am I unfortunate enough?

L'ANGELY.

Your life
Is full of woe.

THE KING.

How will you comfort me?

L'ANGELY.

Another grief! You hold in high esteem, And justly too, the art of training hawks For hunting partridges. A good huntsman-- You're one--ought to respect the falconer.

THE KING.

The falconer! A god!

L'ANGELY.

Well! there are two
Who are at point of death!

THE KING.

Two falconers?

L'ANGELY.

Yes!

THE KING.

Who are they?

L'ANGELY.

Two famous ones!

THE KING.

But who?

L'ANGELY.

Those two young men whose lives were begged of you!

THE KING.

Gaspard and Didier?

L'ANGELY.

Yes; they are the last.

THE KING.

What a calamity! Two falconers! Now that the art is very nearly lost. Unhappy duel! When I'm dead, this art Will go from earth, as all things go at last! Why did they fight this duel?

L'ANGELY.

One declared That hawks upon the wing were not as swift As falcons.

THE KING.

He was wrong. But yet that seems Scarcely a hanging matter-- [_Silence._ And my right Of pardon is inviolable--though I am too lenient, says the Cardinal! [_Silence._ [_To L'Angely._] The Cardinal desires their death?

L'ANGELY.

He does!

THE KING (_after pausing and reflecting_).

Then they shall die!

L'ANGELY.

They shall!

THE KING.

Poor falconry!

L'ANGELY (_going to window_).

Sire, look!

THE KING (_turns around suddenly_).

At what?

L'ANGELY.

Just look, I beg of you!

THE KING (_rising and going to the window_).

What is it?

L'ANGELY (_indicating something outside_).

They have changed the sentinel!

THE KING.

Well, is that all?

L'ANGELY.

Who is that fellow with
The yellow lace?

THE KING.

No one--the corporal!

L'ANGELY.

He puts a new man there. What says he, low?

THE KING.

The password! Fool! What are you driving at?

L'ANGELY.

At this: Kings act the part of sentinels. Instead of pikes, a scepter they must bear. When they have strutted 'round their little day, Death comes--the corporal of kings--and puts Another scepter-bearer in their place, Speaking the password which God sends, and which Is clemency.

THE KING.

No, it is justice. Ah, Two falconers! It is a frightful loss! Still, they must die.

L'ANGELY.

As you must die, and I. Or big or little, death has appetite For all. But though they've not much room, The dead sleep well. The Cardinal annoys And wearies you. Wait, sire! A day, a month, A year; when we have played as long as needful-- I, my own part of fool; you, king; and he, The master--we will go to sleep. No matter How proud or great we are, no one shall have More than six feet of territory there. Look! how they bear his lordly litter now!

THE KING.

Yes, life is dark; the tomb alone is bright. If you were not at hand to cheer me up--

L'ANGELY.

Alas! I came to-day to say farewell.

THE KING.

What's that?

L'ANGELY.

I leave you!

THE KING.

You're a crazy fool!
Death, only, frees from royal service.

L'ANGELY.

Well,
I am about to die!

THE KING.

Have you gone mad?

L'ANGELY.

You have condemned me--you, the King of France!

THE KING.

If you are joking, fool, explain yourself.

L'ANGELY.

I shared the duel of those two young men-- At least my sword did, sire, if I did not. I here surrender it.

[_Draws his sword and, kneeling, presents it to The King._

THE KING (_takes it and examines it_).

Indeed, a sword!
Where does it come from, friend?

L'ANGELY.

We're noble, sire!
The guilty are not pardoned. I am one.

THE KING (_somber and stern_).

Good night, then! Let me kiss your neck, poor fool, Before they cut it off. [_Embraces L'Angely._

L'ANGELY (_aside_).

He's in dead earnest!

THE KING (_after a pause_).

For never does a worthy king oppose The course of justice. But you claim too much, Lord Cardinal--two falconers and my fool! All for one duel!

[_Greatly agitated, he walks up and down with his hand on his forehead. Then he turns to L'Angely, who is most anxious._

Go! console yourself! Life is but bitterness, the tomb means rest. Man is a breath ephemeral.

L'ANGELY (_aside_).

The devil!

[_The King continues to pace the floor and appears violently agitated._

THE KING.

And so, you think you'll have to hang, poor fool!

L'ANGELY (_aside_).

He means it! God! I feel cold perspiration Starting upon my brow. [_Aloud._] Unless a word From you--

THE KING.

Whom shall I have to make me laugh? If you should rise from out the tomb, come back And tell me all about it. 'Tis a chance!

L'ANGELY.

The errand is a pleasant one!

[_The King continues to walk rapidly, speaking to L'Angely now and then._

THE KING.

What triumph
For my lord cardinal--my fool!
[_Folding his arms._
Think you
I could be master if I wished to be?

L'ANGELY.

Montaigne would say, "Who knows?" And Rabelais, "Perhaps."

THE KING (_with gesture of determination_).

Give me a parchment, fool.

[_L'Angely eagerly hands a parchment which he finds on the table near the writing-desk. The King hastily writes a few words, then gives the parchment back to L'Angely._

Behold!
I pardon all.

L'ANGELY.

All three?

THE KING.

Yes.

L'ANGELY (_running to Marion_).

Come, madame,
Come, kneel, and thank the King.

MARION (_falling on her knees_).

We have the pardon?

L'ANGELY.

Yes! It was I--

MARION.

Whose knees must I embrace--
His Majesty's or yours?

THE KING (_astonished, examining Marion: aside_).

What does this mean?
Is this a trap?

L'ANGELY (_giving parchment to Marion_).

Here is the pardon. Take it!

[_Marion kisses it, and puts it in her bosom._

THE KING (_aside_).

Have I been duped?
[_To Marion._] One instant! Give it back!

MARION.

Good God!

[_To The King, with courage, touching her breast._

Come here and take it, and tear out
My heart as well!

[_The King stops and steps backward, much embarrassed._

L'ANGELY (_low to Marion_).

Good! Keep it, and be firm!
His Majesty won't take it, there!

THE KING (_to Marion_).

Give it
To me!

MARION.

Take it, my sire!

THE KING (_casting down his eyes_).

Who is this siren?

L'ANGELY (_low to Marion_).

He wouldn't touch the corset of the Queen!

THE KING (_after a moment's hesitation, dismisses Marion with a gesture without looking at her_).

Well, go!

MARION (_bowing profoundly to The King_).

I'll fly to save the prisoners! [_Exits._

L'ANGELY (_to The King_).

She's sister to Didier, the falconer.

THE KING.

She can be what she will. It's very strange, The way she made me drop my eyes! Made me, A man-- [_Silence._ Fool, you have played a trick on me! I'll have to pardon you a second time.

L'ANGELY.

Yes, do it! Every time they grant a pardon, Kings lift a dreary weight from off their hearts.

THE KING.

You speak the truth. I always suffer when La Grève holds court. Nangis was right: the dead Serve nobody. To fill Montfaucon I make a desert of the Louvre! [_Walking rapidly._ 'Tis treason To strike my right of pardon out, before My face. What can I do? Disarmed, dethroned, And fallen: in this man absorbed, as in A sepulcher! His cloak becomes my shroud: My people mourn for me as for the dead. I am resolved: those two boys shall not die! The joy of living is a heavenly gift. [_After reflection._ God, who knows where we go, can ope the tomb; A king cannot. Back to their families I give them; that old man, that fair young girl, Will bless me. It is said: I've signed it--I, The King. The Cardinal will be furious, But it will please Bellegarde.

L'ANGELY.

One can, sometimes,
Be kingly by mistake.

_ACT V_

THE CARDINAL

Scene.--_Beaugency. The tower of Beaugency. A courtyard; the tower in the background, all around a high wall. To the left, a tall arched door; to the right, a small rounded door in the wall; near the door a stone table and stone bench_

SCENE I

_Some Workmen. They are pulling down a corner of the back wall on the left. The demolition is almost completed_

FIRST WORKMAN (_working with his pickax_).

It's very hard!

SECOND WORKMAN (_working_).

Deuce take this heavy wall we're pulling down!

THIRD WORKMAN (_working_).

Saw you the scaffold, Peter?

FIRST WORKMAN.

Yes, I did.

[_He goes to the large door and measures it._

The door is narrow; never will the litter Of the Lord Cardinal go through it.

THIRD WORKMAN.

Bah!
Is it a house?

FIRST WORKMAN (_with affirmative gesture_).

With great long curtains. Yes. It takes some four and twenty men on foot To carry it.

SECOND WORKMAN.

I saw the great machine, One night when it was very dark. It looked Just like Leviathan in shadow-land.

THIRD WORKMAN.

What does he come here with his sergeants for?

FIRST WORKMAN.

To see the execution of those two young men. He's sick. He needs to be amused.

SECOND WORKMAN.

To work!

[_They resume work; the wall is about torn down._

Saw you the scaffold, all in black? That comes Of being noble!

FIRST WORKMAN.

They have everything.

SECOND WORKMAN.

I wonder
If they would build a black scaffold for us.

FIRST WORKMAN.

What have those young men done that they should die? Hein? Do you understand, Maurice?

THIRD WORKMAN.

I don't.
It's justice.

[_They continue their work. Laffemas enters; The Workmen are silent. He comes from the back as though he were coming from an inside court of the prison; stops beside The Workmen, appears to examine the breach, and gives them some directions. When the space is opened, he orders them to hang black cloth across it, which covers it entirely; then he dismisses them. At almost the same moment Marion appears, dressed in white, and veiled; she enters through the great door, crosses the court rapidly, and runs to the grating of the small door, at which she knocks. Laffemas follows slowly in the same direction. The grating is opened; The Turnkey appears._

SCENE II

Marion, Laffemas

MARION (_showing a parchment to The Turnkey_).

Order of the King!

THE TURNKEY.

You can't
Enter, madame.

MARION.

What!

LAFFEMAS (_presenting a paper to The Turnkey_).

Signed, the Cardinal!

THE TURNKEY.

Enter.

[_When about to enter, Laffemas turns, looks at Marion a moment, then approaches her. The Turnkey shuts the door._

LAFFEMAS (_to Marion_).

You here? This questionable place!

MARION.

I am. [_Triumphantly showing the parchment._
I have the pardon!

LAFFEMAS (_showing his_).

Yes? I have
The revocation!

MARION (_with a cry of horror_).

Mine was yesterday--
The morning!

LAFFEMAS.

Mine, last night!

MARION (_with hands over her eyes_).

My God! No hope!

LAFFEMAS.

Hope is a flash of lightning which deceives. The clemency of kings is a frail thing; It comes with lagging steps and goes with wings.

MARION.

The King was moved with pity for their fate!

LAFFEMAS.

What can the King against the Cardinal?

MARION.

Oh, Didier, our last hope's extinguished now!

LAFFEMAS (_low_).

Not--not the last!

MARION.

Just Heaven!

LAFFEMAS (_drawing near to her_).

There is here A man whom one short word from you could make Happier than any king, and mightier too!

MARION.

Away!

LAFFEMAS.

Is that your answer?

MARION (_haughtily_).

I beg you!

LAFFEMAS.

How fleeting are the whims of the fair sex! You were not always, madame, so severe! Now that 'tis question of your lover's life--

MARION (_without looking at him, turning to the small door, her hands clasped_).

If it would save your life, I could not go Back to that infamy. My soul's grown pure At touch of you, my Didier; sin is shamed. Your love gives back my lost virginity.

LAFFEMAS.

Well, love him!

MARION.

Ah, he pushes me from crime
To vice! Oh, monster, go! Let me keep pure!

LAFFEMAS.

There is but one thing left for me to do!

MARION.

What is it?

LAFFEMAS.

I can show you--let you see.
It is to-night.

MARION (_trembling all over_).

Oh, heaven! this night!

LAFFEMAS.

This night
The Cardinal, in litter, will attend.

[_Marion is buried in a deep and painful reverie. Suddenly she passes her two hands over her brow and turns, as if wild, toward Laffemas._

MARION.

How could you manage their escape?

LAFFEMAS (_low_).

You mean?
Two of my men could guard this place, by which
The Cardinal passes--
[_He listens at the small door._
I think some one comes!

MARION (_wringing her hands_).

You'll save him?

LAFFEMAS.

Yes.
[_Low._] To tell you in this place--
The walls have echoes--elsewhere.

MARION (_with despair_).

Come!

[_Laffemas goes toward the large door and signs to her to follow. She falls on her knees, turned toward the grating of the prison; then she arises with a convulsive effort and disappears through the great door after Laffemas. Saverny and Didier enter, surrounded by Guards._

SCENE III

_Didier, Saverny. Saverny, dressed in the latest fashion, enters gayly and petulantly. Didier is in black, walks slowly, is very pale. A jailer accompanied by Halberdiers conducts them. The Jailer places the two Halberdiers as sentinels beside the black curtain. Didier sits, silently, on the stone bench_

SAVERNY (_to The Jailer, who opens the door for him_).

Thank you.
The air is very good!

THE JAILER (_low, and drawing him aside_).

My lord, two words with you.

SAVERNY.

Four, if you like.

THE JAILER (_lowering his voice still more_).

Will you escape?

SAVERNY (_eagerly_).

Speak! How?

THE JAILER.

That's my affair.

SAVERNY.

Truly? [_The Jailer nods his head._ Lord Cardinal, You meant to keep me from attending balls, But it appears I am to dance again. The pleasant thing that life is! [_To The Jailer._] When, my friend?

THE JAILER.

To-night, as soon as it is dark.

SAVERNY.

My faith! I shall be charmed to leave these quarters. Whence Comes this assistance?

THE JAILER.

Marquis de Nangis.

SAVERNY.

My good old uncle! [_To The Jailer._] 'Tis for both, I hope!

THE JAILER.

I can save only one!

SAVERNY.

For twice as much?

THE JAILER.

I can save only one!

SAVERNY (_tossing his head_).

Just one?
[_Low to The Jailer._] Then listen;
Good jailer, that's the one to save!
[_Indicating Didier._

THE JAILER.

You jest!

SAVERNY.

I do not! He's the one!

THE JAILER.

What an idea!
Your uncle wants to save you, not save him.

SAVERNY.

It's settled? Then prepare two shrouds at once.

[_Turns his back on The Jailer, who goes out, astonished. A Registrar enters._

We can't be left alone an instant--strange!

REGISTRAR (_saluting the prisoners_).

The royal councilor of the Great Chamber Is close at hand. [_Salutes them again and exits._

SAVERNY.

'Tis well! [_Laughing._
Annoying luck!
Twenty years old--September--and to die
Before October!

DIDIER (_motionless at front of stage, holding the portrait in his hand, and as if absorbed in a deep study of it_).

Come, look at me well! Eyes in my eyes: thus. You are beautiful! What radiant grace! Hardly a woman, you! No: much more like an angel. God Himself When He formed that divinely honest look Put much fire in it but more chastity. That childish mouth, pushed open by sweet hopes, Throbs with its innocence.

[_Throwing the portrait violently to the ground._

Why did that peasant Take me unto her breast? Why not have dashed My head against the stones? What did I do Unto my mother to be cursed with birth? Why, in that misery, it may be crime, Which forced her to abandon her own blood, Had she not motherhood enough to choke Me in her arms?

SAVERNY (_returning from back of court_).

The swallows fly quite low;
'Twill rain to-night.

DIDIER (_without hearing him_).

A faithless, a mad thing, A woman is: inconstant, cruel, deep, And turbulent as is the ocean. Ah, Upon that sea I trusted all my fortune! In all the vast horizon saw one star! Well! I am shipwrecked! Nothing's left but death. Yet I was born good-hearted: might have found The spark divine within me by-and-by. Fair looked the future! Oh, remorseless woman, Did you not shrink in face of such a lie, Since to your mercy I trusted my soul?

SAVERNY.

Forever Marion! You've strange ideas About her!

DIDIER (_without heeding him, picks up the picture and fixes his eyes upon it_).

Down 'mongst the degraded things I must throw you, oh, woman who betrays! A demon, with eyes touched by angels' wings. [_Puts it back into his breast._ Come back; here is your place! [_Approaching Saverny._] A curious thing! That portrait is alive; I do not jest. While you were sleeping there so peacefully It gnawed my heart all night.

SAVERNY.

Alas! poor friend.
We'll talk of death.
[_Aside._] It comforts him, although
I find it rather sad.

DIDIER.

What did you say? I have not listened. Since I heard that name I have been stupefied. I cannot think: I can't remember, cannot hear nor see!

SAVERNY (_taking hold of his arm_).

Death, friend!

DIDIER (_joyfully_).

Oh, yes!

SAVERNY.

Let's talk about it.

DIDIER.

Yes!

SAVERNY.

What is it, after all?

DIDIER.

Did you sleep well
Last night?

SAVERNY.

No, badly, for my bed was hard.

DIDIER.

When you are dead, your bed will be much harder, But you will sleep extremely well--that's all. They've made hell splendidly; but by the side Of life, it's nothing.

SAVERNY.

Good! My fears are gone!
But to be hanged! That certainly is bad.

DIDIER.

You're getting death; don't be an egotist.

SAVERNY.

You can be satisfied; but I am not. I'm not afraid of death--that is no boast-- When death is death, but on the gallows!

DIDIER.

Well, Death has a thousand forms--gallows are one. That moment is not pleasant when the rope Puts out your life as one puts out a flame, Choking your throat to let your soul fly up; But, after all, what matter? If all's dark, If only all this earth is hidden well, What matter if a tomb lies on one's breast? What matter if the night-winds howl and blow About the strings of flesh crows tore from you When you were on the gibbet? What care you?

SAVERNY.

You're a philosopher.

DIDIER.

Yes, let them rave. Let vultures tear my flesh, let worms consume, As they consume all, even kings; my body Is what's concerned, not I. What do I care? When sepulchers shut down our mortal eye, The soul lifts up the mighty mass of stone And flies away--

[_A Councilor enters, preceded and followed by Halberdiers in black._

SCENE IV

_The same. Councilor of the Great Chamber, in full dress, The Jailer, Guards_

THE JAILER (_announcing_).

The Councilor of the King!

COUNCILOR (_saluting Saverny and Didier in turn_).

My mission's painful and the law severe--

SAVERNY.

I understand: there is no hope! Speak, sir!

COUNCILOR (_unfolds a parchment and reads_).

"We, Louis, King of France and of Navarre, Reject appeals made by these men condemned, But moved by pity, change the punishment And order them beheaded."

SAVERNY (_joyfully_).

God be praised!

COUNCILOR (_saluting them once more_).

You are to hold yourselves in readiness; It will take place to-day. [_He salutes and prepares to exit._

DIDIER (_who has remained in the same thoughtful attitude, to Saverny_).

As I was saying, After this death, although the corpse be mangled, Though every limb be stamped with hideous wounds, Though arms be twisted, broken every bone, Though through the mire the body has been dragged, From out that putrid, bleeding, awful flesh The soul shall rise, unstained, untouched, and pure.

COUNCILOR (_coming back, to Didier_).

'Tis well to occupy yourselves with such Great thoughts.

DIDIER (_gently_).

Please do not interrupt me, sir.

SAVERNY (_gayly to Didier_).

No gallows!

DIDIER.

Order of the fête is changed, I know. The Cardinal travels with his headsman, And he must be employed; the ax will rust.

SAVERNY.

You're cool about it, yet the stake is great. [_To The Councilor._] Thank you for such good news.

COUNCILOR.

I wish 'twere better!
Good sir, my zeal--

SAVERNY.

Excuse me. What's the hour?

COUNCILOR.

At nine o'clock to-night.

DIDIER.

I hope the sky
Will be as dark as is my soul.

SAVERNY.

The place?

COUNCILOR (_indicating the neighboring court_).

Here in the court. The Cardinal will come.

[_Councilor exits with his escort. The two prisoners remain alone. Day begins to fade. The halberds of the two sentinels, who silently promenade before the breach, are all that can be seen._

DIDIER (_solemnly, after a pause_).

At this portentous hour we must reflect Upon the fate awaiting us. Our years Are equal, though I'm older far than you. It is but just, therefore, that mine should be The voice to cheer and to exhort you, since I am the cause of all your misery. 'Twas I who challenged you. You were content And happy: 'twas enough for me to pass Across your life to ruin it. My fate Pressed down upon yours 'til it crushed it. Now, Together, we are soon to face the tomb. We'll take each other's hand-- [_Sound of hammering._

SAVERNY.

What is that noise?

DIDIER.

It is our scaffold which they're building, or Our coffins they are nailing.

[_Saverny sits on the stone bench._

When the hour
Has tolled, sometimes the heart of man gives way.
Life holds us in a thousand secret ways.
[_A bell strikes._
I think a voice is calling to us. Hark!
[_Another bell._

SAVERNY.

The hour is striking.
[_A third bell._

DIDIER.

Yes, the hour!
[_A fourth bell._

SAVERNY.

In chapel!
[_Four more bells._

DIDIER.

It is a voice that calls us, just the same.

SAVERNY.

Another hour!

[_He leans his elbows on the stone table and drops his head on his hands. The Guard is changed._

DIDIER.

My friend, do not give way! Don't falter on this threshold we must cross. The tomb they're fitting up for us is low, And won't permit the entrance of a head. Let's go to meet them with a fearless tread. The scaffold can afford to shake, not we. They claim our heads; and since no fault is ours, We'll bear them proudly to the fatal block.

[_Approaches Saverny, who is motionless._

Courage!

[_Touches his arm and finds he is asleep._

Asleep! While I've been preaching courage This man has slept! What is my bravery Compared to his? Sleep on, you who can sleep. My turn will come--provided all things die, That nothing of the heart survives within The tomb, to hate what it has loved too much.

[_It is night. While Didier has become absorbed in his thoughts, Marion and The Jailer enter through the opening in the wall; The Jailer precedes her. He carries a dark-lantern and a bundle, both of which he places on the ground, then advances cautiously toward Marion, who has remained standing on the threshold, pale, motionless, half-wild._

SCENE VI

[The scenes are mis-numbered in the book and skip from the number IV to the number VI in Act V. (note of etext transcriber)]

_The same._ Marion, The Jailer

THE JAILER (_to Marion)._

Be sure to come at the appointed hour.

[_Goes up stage; during the rest of this scene he continues to walk up and down at the back._

MARION (_advances with tottering steps as if absorbed in some desperate thought. Every now and then she draws her hand across her face as if to rub off something_).

His lips, like red-hot iron, have branded me!

[_Suddenly she discovers Didier, gives a cry, runs and throws herself breathless at his feet._

Didier--Didier!

DIDIER (_roused with a start_).

Here, Marion! My God!
[_Coldly._] 'Tis you?

MARION.

Who should it be? Oh, leave me here-- Here at your feet! It is the place I love! Your hands, your dear loved hands, give them--your hands! Oh, they are wounded! Those harsh chains did that. The wretched creatures! But I'm here--you know-- Oh, it is terrible! [_She weeps; her sobs are audible._

DIDIER.

Why do you weep?

MARION.

Why? Didier, I'm not weeping! No, I laugh! [_She laughs._ We'll soon escape from here! I laugh. I'm happy. You will live; the danger's passed.

[_She falls again at Didier's feet and sobs._

My God!
All this is killing me! I'm broken--crushed.

DIDIER.

Madame--

MARION (_rises, without hearing him, and gets the bundle and brings it to him_).

Now hurry! We have not much time! Take this disguise. I've bribed the sentinels. We'll leave Beaugency without being seen. Go down that street, at the wall's end, out there! The Cardinal will come to see them execute His orders; we can't lose an instant now. The cannon will be fired when he arrives, And we'll be lost if we should still be here.

DIDIER.

'Tis well!

MARION.

Quick! hurry! Didier, you are saved!
To be free! Didier, how I love you--God!

DIDIER.

You say a street where the wall ends?

MARION.

I do. I saw it. I've been there. It is quite safe. I saw them close up the last window, too. It may be we shall meet some women, but They'll think you're just a passer-by. Come, love; When you are far off--please put on these things-- We'll laugh to see you thus disguised. Come, dear!

DIDIER (_pushing the clothes aside with his foot_).

There is no hurry.

MARION.

Death waits at the door.
Fly! Didier! Since I've come!

DIDIER.

Why did you come?

MARION.

To save you! What a question to ask me! Why such a freezing tone?

DIDIER (_with a sad smile_).

Ah, well! We men
Are often senseless.

MARION.

We are losing time. The horses wait. What you have in your mind, You'll tell me afterward. We must fly now.

DIDIER.

Who is that man there watching us?

MARION.

The jailer. He's safe; I bribed him, as I did the guard. Do you suspect them? You have such an air.

DIDIER.

It's nothing. We're so easily deceived.

MARION.

Come! Each lost moment chills me to the heart. I seem to hear the tread of that great crowd. Hasten, my Didier--on my knees--oh, fly!

DIDIER (_indicating Saverny, asleep_).

Tell me which one of us you want to save.

MARION (_overcome for a moment_).

[_Aside._] Gaspard is generous: he would not tell. [_Aloud._] Does Didier speak to his beloved thus? My Didier, what have you against me?

DIDIER.

Naught.
Lift up your face and look me in the eyes.

[_Marion, trembling, fixes her eyes on him._

It is a perfect likeness! Yes.

MARION.

My love,
I worship you, but come!

DIDIER.

Don't turn away!
[_He looks at her fixedly._

MARION (_terrified at his look_).

[_Aside._] The kisses of that man, he sees them! God! [_Aloud._] You have a secret, something against me! It hurts you! Tell me all about it, dear. You know we often make things worse by thinking, And too late find it out; then we regret. I had my share in all your thoughts, love, once! Speak, are those days for evermore gone by? Do you not love me now? Have you forgot My little room at Blois? Forgotten how We loved each other, till the world was lost? Sometimes you grew uneasy; then I said, "If any one should see him!" Oh, 'twas fine! But one day has destroyed it all. You've said A thousand times, in words that burned my soul, I was your love, I knew your secrets, I Could make you anything I chose. What have I ever asked? I've always thought with you! This time, oh, yield to me! It is your life I'm pleading for. My Didier, hark to me. Alive or dead, I swear to follow you. All things with you, love, will be sweet to me-- To fly, or die upon the scaffold. What! You push me back? You shall not! Leave your hand, I want it. My poor brow, it does no harm To rest it on your knees. I am so tired; I ran so fast to come! What would they say, The people I knew once, to see me now? I was so gay, so merry; now I weep! What is it that you have against me? Speak! Oh, shame! You must let me lie at your feet. It's very cruel of you not to say One single word. When we have thoughts, we speak! 'Twould be more merciful to stab me, love! See, I have dried my tears, and I am smiling. You smile too. Oh, if you don't smile at me, I will not love you! I have always done Just what you wanted; now it is your turn. These chains are what have chilled your soul. Love, smile And speak to me, and say "Marie."

DIDIER.

"Marie"
Or "Marion"?

MARION (_falls annihilated at his feet_).

Didier, be merciful!

DIDIER (_with terrible tone_).

Here, no one finds an entrance easily. Prisons of state are guarded night and day, The doors are iron, walls twenty cubits high; To open these remorseless doors, madame, To whom here did you prostitute yourself?

MARION.

Who told you?

DIDIER.

No one; but I understand.

MARION.

Didier, I swear by every hope divine It was to save you, tear you from this place; To melt the executioner--to save you-- Don't you hear?

DIDIER (_folding his arms_).

I thank you! To descend As low as that! To have no shame, no soul! Oh, madame! can one be so infamous?

[_Crossing the court with a great cry of rage._

Who is this trader in disgrace and vice, Who puts a price like that upon my head? Where is the jailer, where the judge, the man?-- That I may crush him as I crush this thing.

[_He is about to break the portrait in his hands, but he stops, and beside himself, continues._

The judge? Yes, gentlemen, make laws and judge! What matters it to me if the false weight Which swings your vile scales to this side or that Be made of woman's honor or man's life? [_To Marion._] Go to your lover!

MARION.

Do not treat me thus! Another word of scorn and I fall dead Here at your feet. If ever love was true And strong and pure, mine was. If any man Was ever worshiped by a woman, you Have been by me.

DIDIER.

Hush! Do not speak! I might, For sorrow, have been born a woman too. I might have been as infamous as you. I might have sold myself, have given my breast To any passer-by, as place for rest. But if there came to me, in his frank way, An honest man, filled with the love of truth, If I had met a heart insane enough To keep its vain illusions all these years, Oh, sooner than not tell that honest man "I'm this," sooner than charm and dazzle him, Sooner than fail to warn him that my eyes So candid and my lips so pure were lies, Sooner than be perfidious and base like that, I'd want to dig my grave with my own hands.

MARION.

O God!

DIDIER.

How you would laugh if you could see The picture that my heart painted of you! How wise you were to shatter it, madame! There you were chaste and beautiful and pure! What injury has this poor man done you, Who loved you on his bended knees?

[_Presenting portrait to her._

Perhaps This is a fitting time to give you back This pledge of love ardent and true.

MARION (_turning away with a cry_).

Oh, shame!

DIDIER.

Did you not have it painted just for me?

[_He laughs, and dashes the locket to the ground._

MARION.

Will some one, out of pity, kill me now?

THE JAILER.

Time's passing.

MARION.

Yes, it flies; and we are lost. Didier, I've not the right to say a single word. I am a woman to whom naught is due. You have rebuked and cursed me: you did well! I merit still more hate and shame. You've been Too kind; my broken, bruised heart is grateful. But the remorseless hour draws near. Away! The headsman you forget, remembers you. I've planned it all. You can escape. Now, listen-- My God! do not refuse. You know how much It costs me. Hate me, strike me, curse me, leave Me to my shame, disown me, walk upon My bleeding heart--but fly!

DIDIER.

Fly where? From whom? There's naught but you to fly from in this world; And I escape you, for the grave is deep.

THE JAILER.

The hour is passing.

MARION.

O my Didier, fly!

DIDIER.

I will not!

MARION.

Just for pity!

DIDIER.

Pity! why?

MARION.

To see you taken, bound! To see you--_there_! Only to think it makes me die of horror! Come! I will be a servant unto you. Come! Take me, when I have redeemed myself, Just to have something underneath your feet. The one you called "a wife" in times of trial--

DIDIER.

A wife! [_Cannon sounds in the distance._
This makes of you a widow, then!

MARION.

Didier!

THE JAILER.

The hour is past.

[_Rolling of drums. Enter Councilor of the Great Chamber, accompanied by penitents bearing torches, and by Executioner. A crowd of soldiers and people follow._

MARION.

Ah, Christ!

SCENE VII

_The same. Councilor, Executioner, Populace, Soldiers_

COUNCILOR.

I'm ready,
Gentlemen!

MARION (_to Didier_).

I told you that he'd come!

DIDIER (_to Councilor_).

We're ready also.

COUNCILOR.

Which is named Gaspard,
Marquis de Saverny?

[_Didier points to Saverny, who is asleep._

[_To Executioner._] Awaken him!

EXECUTIONER (_shaking him_).

How well he sleeps, my lord!

SAVERNY (_rubbing his eyes_).

Ah, how could you
Break in on such a pleasant sleep!

DIDIER.

'Tis only
Interrupted, friend!

SAVERNY (_half awake: sees Marion and salutes her_).

Oh, I was dreaming
About you, my beauty!

COUNCILOR.

Have you made
Your peace with God?

SAVERNY.

I have, sir.

COUNCILOR.

It is well.
Please sign this paper!

SAVERNY (_takes the parchment, runs over it_).

'Tis the _procès-verbal_. Good! This is a most curious thing--account Of my own death, signed with my autograph!

[_Signs, and reads the paper again: to Councilor._

You have made three mistakes in spelling, sir.

[_Takes the pen and corrects them. To Executioner._

You have awakened me; put me to sleep!

COUNCILOR (_to Didier_).

Didier!

[_Didier approaches: Councilor gives pen to him._

Your name is there.

MARION (_hiding her eyes_).

The grewsome thing!

DIDIER.

I could sign nothing with intenser joy!

[_The Guards form themselves into a line to lead them away._

SAVERNY (_to some one in the crowd_).

Sir, step aside and let that young child see!

DIDIER (_to Saverny_).

My brother, 'tis for me you suffer death; Let us embrace each other! [_He embraces Saverny._

MARION (_running to him_).

And for me
No kisses, Didier!

DIDIER (_indicating Saverny_).

This is my friend, madame!

MARION (_clasping her hands_).

How hard you are upon me, a poor thing, Who always on my knees to king or judge Have begged mercy for you from every one! Pardon of them for you; pardon of you for me!

DIDIER (_rushes to Marion, trembling, and bursting into tears_).

No, I cannot! The torture's horrible! No, I have loved too much to leave her so! It is too hard to keep a cold, impassive face When underneath the heart is breaking down. Come to my arms, oh, woman, come!

[_Presses her convulsively to his heart._

I love you! I'm about to die. Before them all, It is my loftiest joy to tell you this: I love you!

MARION.

Didier!

[_Embraces her again with rapture._

To my heart, oh, come! You who behold this direful tragedy, I wonder if there's one of you who would Refuse love unto one who'd given herself Entirely and unceasingly to him? Oh, I was wrong! Say, would you have me face Eternity without a pardon from Her lips? No! Stand by me and listen, love: Among all womankind--and those who hear Will prove me right by their own hearts--the one I love, the one in whom I trust, the one I venerate is you--is always you! For you were kind, devoted, loving, good. My life is almost ended. When death's near A clearer light illuminates all things. If you deceived me, 'twas excess of love; And if you fell, have you not cruelly atoned? Perhaps your mother--life's so hard--forgot You in your cradle, as my mother did; When you were young and helpless, perhaps they sold Your innocence. Ah, lift up your white brow! And listen, all of you. At such an hour The earth is a mere shadow and the heart Speaks true. Well, at this moment, from the height Of the dread scaffold--and there's naught so high When guiltless souls ascend it--here, I say to you, Marie, angel of light, Whose luster earth has dimmed, my love, my wife, In God's name, before whom I soon shall stand, I pardon you.

MARION (_suffocated with tears_).

Ah, Christ!

DIDIER.

It is your turn.
Speak now, and pardon me!
[_He kneels before her._

MARION.

Didier!

DIDIER.

Your pardon, Love! I was the most at fault, the most Unkind. God has chastised you much through me. Weep for me when I'm gone, because to have Hurt you is such a burden to take hence Into eternity. Don't leave it on me; Pardon me!

MARION (_inaudibly_).

Have mercy on me--God!

DIDIER.

Just speak one word; put your sweet hands upon My forehead. If your heart is full and you Can't speak, please make a sign. I'm dying; you Must comfort me.

[_Marion places her hand on his forehead; he rises, embraces her tenderly, with a smile of celestial joy._

Farewell! Come, gentlemen!
Let us move on!

MARION (_throws herself wildly between him and the Soldiers_).

Oh, no! Stop! This is madness! If you think you can behead him easily, You have forgotten I am here. Spare us! Oh, men! oh, soldiers, judge, people! Spare us! How do you want me to ask you? Upon My knees? Well, here I am! Now if In you there's anything that quivers at A woman's voice, if God has thrown no curse On you--don't kill him! [_To the spectators._] Men and women--you! When you go back into your homes to-night, You'll find your mothers and your daughters; they Will say to you, "It was a wicked crime. You might have saved him, and you did not. Shame!" Didier, they ought to know that I must follow You! They will not kill you if they want To keep me living!

DIDIER.

Let me die, Marie. 'Tis better, dear one, for my wound is deep; It would have taken too much time to heal. Better for me to go; but if, some time-- You see I'm weeping too--another comes, A happier man, more fortunate than I, Think of your old friend sleeping in the tomb.

MARION.

You shall not die! Are these men all inhuman? You must live!

DIDIER.

Don't ask things impossible. No; with your bright eyes, turn, illuminate My grave for me. Embrace me. You will love Me better, dead. I'll hold a sacred place In your dear memory. But if I lived, Lived near you with my lacerated soul-- I, who have loved no one but you--you see It would be painful. I would make you weep. I'd have a thousand thoughts I could not speak. I'd seem to doubt you, watch you, worry you. You would be most unhappy. Let me die!

COUNCILOR (_to Marion_).

The Cardinal will pass by soon, madame! You can ask pardon for him then.

MARION.