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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6833f05 --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,3 @@ +* text=auto +*.txt text +*.md text diff --git a/37961-8.txt b/37961-8.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6839589 --- /dev/null +++ b/37961-8.txt @@ -0,0 +1,6099 @@ +Project Gutenberg's He Who Gets Slapped, by Leonid Nikolayevich Andreyev + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: He Who Gets Slapped + A Play in Four Acts + +Author: Leonid Nikolayevich Andreyev + +Translator: Gregory Zilboorg + +Release Date: November 9, 2011 [EBook #37961] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK HE WHO GETS SLAPPED *** + + + + +Produced by Chuck Greif and the Online Distributed +Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This book was +produced from scanned images of public domain material +from the Google Print project.) + + + + + + + + +HE WHO GETS SLAPPED + +[Illustration: _Setting by Lee Simonson_ + +_Photograph by Francis Bruguierre_ + +A SCENE FROM THE THEATRE GUILD PRODUCTION] + + + + +He Who Gets Slapped + +A PLAY IN FOUR ACTS + +BY LEONID ANDREYEV + +TRANSLATED FROM THE RUSSIAN +WITH AN INTRODUCTION BY + +GREGORY ZILBOORG + +[Illustration: colophon] + +NEW YORK + +BRENTANO'S + +Publishers + +COPYRIGHT, 1922, BY +BRENTANO'S + +COPYRIGHT, 1921, BY +THE DIAL PUBLISHING COMPANY + +_All rights reserved_ + +_Printed in the United States of America_ + +The first regular production of HE in English was by The Theatre Guild +on January 9, 1922, at the Garrick Theatre, New York. The original cast +was as follows: + + _Tilly_ } { Philip Leigh + _Polly_ } _Musical Clowns_ { Edgar Stehli + + _Briquet, Manager of the Circus_ Ernest Cossart + _Mancini, Consuelo's Father_ Frank Reicher + _Zinida, a Lion Tamer_ Helen Westley + + _Angelica_ } _Trapeze Performers_ { Martha Bryan Allen + _Estelle_ } { Helen Sheridan + + _Francois_ Edwin R. Wolfe + _HE_ Richard Bennett + _Jackson, a Clown_ Henry Travers + _Consuelo, the Equestrian Tango Queen_ Margalo Gillmore + _Alfred Bezano, a Bareback Rider_ John Rutherford + _Baron Regnard_ Louis Calvert + _A Gentleman_ John Blair + _Wardrobe Lady_ Kathryn Wilson + _Usher_ Charles Cheltenham + _Conductor_ Edwin R. Wolfe + _Pierre_ Philip Loeb + _A Sword Dancer_ Renee Wilde + _Ballet Master_ Oliver Grymes + + { Vera Tompkins + { Anne Tonnetti + _Ballet Girls_ { Marguerite Wernimont + { Frances Ryan + + _Actresses in Circus Pantomime_ { Adele St. Maur + { Sara Enright + + _Thomas, a Strong Man_ Dante Voltaire + _A Snake Charmer_ Joan Clement + _A Contortionist_ Richard Coolidge + _A Riding Master_ Kenneth Lawton + _A Juggler_ Francis G. Sadtler + + _Acrobats_ { Sears Taylor + { Luigi Belastro + +_Stage Manager_, Philip Loeb _Ass't Stage Manager_, Oliver Grymes + +_Produced under the direction of_ ROBERT MILTON + +_Settings and Costumes by_ LEE SIMONSON + + "Stage, screen, and amateur rights for the translation and the + original play in all English-speaking countries are owned and + controlled by The Theatre Guild, 65 West 35th St., New York City. + No public readings or performances may be given without their + written consent." + + + + +INTRODUCTION + + +Leonid Andreyev as a literary figure was born in the gloomy atmosphere +of depression of the 'nineties. He thus appeared upon the literary stage +at a period when the old and splendid generation of Turgenev and +Dostoevsky had already passed away and when Chekhov had begun to +demonstrate before the reader the gloom and colourlessness of Russia +life. + +This was a period when the social forces of Russia were half destroyed +by the reaction under Alexander III, and when the young generation was +trying to rest and to get away from the strain of social hopes and +despair. This period, briefly speaking, was a period of melancholy, of +commonplace, every-day preoccupations, and of dull _terre à terre_ +philosophy. + +It must be borne in mind that literature was the only outlet for the +moral and intellectual forces of Russia. Political reaction, censorship, +complete absence of civil liberties, and the cult of popular ignorance +upon which Czardom based its power, all these made the written artistic +word almost the sole expression of Russian social longings and +idealistic expectations. + +It is therefore only natural that Russian literature in its general +development is closely interwoven with the political and social +conditions of Russia at the given moment. The 'nineties were a period of +depression. After the assassination of Alexander II (1881) and the +subsequent tightening of the chain of reaction, combined with a general +_débâcle_ in progressive and radical circles, the Russian intellectual +fell into a state of pessimism. His faith in an early liberation was +shattered, his hope of recovery was broken. Chekhov is the most +characteristic representative of that period; he himself called his +heroes "the dull-grey people." + +Maxim Gorki and Leonid Andreyev appeared almost simultaneously at that +time. The former brought the message of a rebel spirit which forecast a +new moral upheaval, a new social protest; the latter appeared clad in +the gloom of his time, which he strangely combined with a spirit of +almost anarchistic revolt. From the point of view of historical +completeness Leonid Andreyev is more representative of the epoch, +demonstrating at once two contradictory elements of the Russia of the +'nineties: lack or even absence of faith interwoven with protest and +mutiny. + +Andreyev is symbolic and romantic. Her Majesty Fate and His Excellency +Accident, these are the two dark, unknown, at times brutal forces which +dwelt ever before the mind's eye. His symbols are full of horror and at +times unbending atrocity. Beginning with his short stories, In Fog, The +Life of Basil of Thebes, through his dramas, The Life of Man, and +Anathema, until his last writings, he saw human beings in the form of +ghosts and ghosts in the form of human beings dominating every step, +every breath of life. Still his gruesome symbolism, despite his genius +for rendering his images in a clear-cut, almost crystalline manner, did +not appeal to many of his contemporaries because the dark shroud in +which Andreyev enveloped life was impenetrable and at times it was +impossible to discern in that gloom the few values which Andreyev still +found in life. Leo Tolstoy said once: "Leonid Andreyev tries to frighten +me, but I am not afraid." + +Even in his splendid realistic dramas it is difficult for Andreyev to +rid himself of the habit of symbolizing and dimming the few rays of +light which try to filter through. + +There was nevertheless a little corner in Andreyev's artistic heart +where there appeared some indefinite hope which never acquired a +specific artistic form, but which was alluded to many times in his +writings. In his short story, Thought, he makes fragmentary allusions to +his half-hope, half-idea: "If the lot of the Man be to become a God, his +throne will be the Book," says the hero. + +But the red laugh of the Russo-Japanese war, the abortive revolution of +1905, the general ignorance and darkness of the masses, the strain of +the last war, the depreciation of human life as a value in itself, +brought Leonid Andreyev to the last step of the pessimistic ladder which +he was ever descending into the abyss of hopelessness. This state of +mind is best illustrated by his last dramatic work, HE, the One Who Gets +Slapped. + +Here we see a man of high education, of great intellectual achievement, +who leaves life, willingly in appearance, but forcibly in fact. The +relations of man to man, of group to group, according to Andreyev are +such that the Man is forced to efface himself. Even Thought, or the +Book, could not help the Man to become a God. He becomes a clown. He +performs stunts, he gets slaps; the public laughs, being unaware that +this laughter is a mockery at itself, at its culture, at its thought, at +its achievement. + +The characters of the play, as the reader will see, are depicted with a +bitter sarcasm and unfriendliness, for Andreyev seems to have lost his +last faith in the Man. The good, the innocent and clean heart is bound +to suffer and die. His Consuelo, Zinida, Bezano are only stray rays of +light out of place in the world and even in the world-circus which is +full of spiders, champagne, and human outcasts. Andreyev does not blame +these outcasts. On the contrary, he feels sympathy, if for anybody, for +just these clowns, jugglers, and bareback-riders; but life, this +strange combination of fate, accident, and cowardly slander, is +stronger, and they collapse under the burden of this combination. + +HE is perhaps the best work of Andreyev, at any rate his best dramatic +work. It is more adapted to stage conditions than his previous plays and +is not overcrowded with symbolic ghosts. Furthermore, HE is a remarkable +summary of Andreyev's philosophy. + +GREGORY ZILBOORG + + + + +HE WHO GETS SLAPPED + +CAST OF CHARACTERS + + + CONSUELO--_a bareback rider in a circus_. + _Billed as "The Bareback Tango Queen."_ + MANCINI--_Consuelo's father_. + HE--_a clown in Briquet's circus_. _Billed as "HE Who Gets Slapped."_ + BRIQUET--_Manager of the circus_. + ZINIDA--_a lion tamer, Briquet's wife_. + ALFRED BEZANO--_a bareback rider_. + A GENTLEMAN. + BARON REGNARD. + JACKSON--_a clown_. + TILLY } + POLLY }--_musical clowns_. + THOMAS, ANGELICA, _and other actors and actresses + of Briquet's circus_. + +_The action takes place in one of the large cities of France._ + + + + +HE WHO GETS SLAPPED + + + + +ACT I + + +_A very large, rather dirty room, with whitewashed walls. To the left, +in a niche, is a window, the only outside window in the room, opening on +a court-yard. The light from it is so dim that even by day the +electricity has to be turned on._ + +_At the very top of the centre-back wall is a row of small dusty +windows. They open on the circus hall. At night, when the performance is +going on, a bright light shines through. By day they are dark. In the +same wall is a large white door, reached by two stone steps, and nailed +fast._ + +_On the right, almost in the corner, is a high, wide, arched doorway +which leads to the stables and the ring. By day it opens into pale +darkness, at night into pale light._ + +_The room is used for many purposes. It is the office of Papa Briquet, +manager of the circus; here he keeps his little desk. It is the +cloak-room of some of the actors. It is also the room where the cast +gathers between calls, during rehearsals or performances. Again, it is a +check-room for used circus property, such as gilt armchairs, scenery +for pantomimes, and other wares of the circus household. The walls are +covered with circus announcements and glaring posters._ + +_The time is morning. In the circus hall a rehearsal is going on, and +preparations are being made for the evening performance. As the curtain +goes up, the cracking whip and the shouts of the riding-master are heard +from the ring. The stage is empty for a few seconds, then enter Tilly +and Polly, the musical clowns, practising a new march. Playing on tiny +pipes, they step from the dark doorway to the window. Their music is +agreeable to the ear, but small, mincing, artificially clown-like, like +their mincing steps; they wear jackets and resemble each other; same +smooth-shaven face, same height; Tilly, the younger, has a scarf around +his neck; both have their derbies on the backs of their heads. Tilly +glances through the window, then they turn about, still marching._ + +POLLY + +[_Interrupting the march_]: Stop, you're out again! Now, listen--[_He +stands close to Tilly and plays into his face. Tilly absent-mindedly +listens, scratching his nose._] There! Come on now! [_They resume their +music and marching. As they reach the door they meet the manager and_ +MANCINI; _the latter walks behind the manager, and is gnawing at the +knob of his goldmounted cane_. COUNT MANCINI _is tall and slight. The +seams of his clothes are worn and he keeps his coat buttoned tight. He +assumes extremely graceful manners, takes affected poses, and has a +special fondness for toying with his cane, with aristocratic +stylishness. When he laughs, which happens often, his thin sharp face +takes on a marked resemblance to a satyr. The manager_, "PAPA" BRIQUET, +_is a stout quiet man of average height_. _His bearing is hesitant. The +clowns make room for the gentlemen. The manager looks questioningly at +the older man._] + +POLLY + +[_With an affected accent_]: Our moosic for the pantomime! The March of +the Ants! + +BRIQUET + +Ha! Yes! + + [_The gentlemen walk in. The clowns resume their music_, POLLY + _marching on, then turning, the younger following._] + +POLLY + +Papa Briquet, Jack is working very badly to-day. + +BRIQUET + +What's the matter with him? + +POLLY + +He has a sore throat. You'd better take a look at him. + +BRIQUET + +All right. Come on, Jack. Open your mouth! Wider--wider. [_Turns clown's +face to the light near the window and examines him closely and +seriously._] Just smear it with iodine. + +POLLY + +I told him so. I said it was nothing! Oh! Come on. [_They go away +playing, marching, practising their funny mincing steps. The manager +sits down._ MANCINI _strikes a pose by the wall, smiling ironically._] + +MANCINI + +So. You give them medical treatment, too! Look out, Papa Briquet, you +have no licence. + +BRIQUET + +Just a little advice. They're all so afraid for their lives. + +MANCINI + +His throat is simply burnt with whiskey. These two fellows get drunk +every night. I am amazed, Papa Briquet, to see you pay so little +attention to their morals. [_He laughs._] + +BRIQUET + +You make me sick, Mancini. + +MANCINI + +Count Mancini is at your service! + +BRIQUET + +You make me sick, Count Mancini. You poke your nose into everything, you +disturb the artists in their work. Some day you'll get a thrashing, and +I warn you that I shan't interfere. + +MANCINI + +As a man of superior associations and education I cannot be expected to +treat your actors as my equals! What more can you ask, Briquet? You see +that I do you the honour of speaking with you quite familiarly, quite +simply. + +BRIQUET + +Ha! ha! ha! [_Slightly threatening_] Really!-- + +MANCINI + +Never mind my joke. What if they did dare attack me--ever seen this, +Briquet? [_He draws a stiletto out of his cane and advances it +silently._] Useful little thing. By the way, you have no idea of the +discovery I made yesterday in a suburb. Such a girl! [_Laughs._] Oh, +well! all right, all right--I know you don't like that sort of sport. +But look here, you must give me a hundred francs! + +BRIQUET + +Not a sou. + +MANCINI + +Then I'll take away Consuelo--that's all---- + +BRIQUET + +Your daily threat! + +MANCINI + +Yes, my threat! And you would do the same, if you were as shamefully +hard up as I am. Now look here, you know as well as I do that I have to +live up to my name somehow, keep up the family reputation. Just because +the tide of ill-fortune which struck my ancestors compelled me to make +my daughter, the Countess Veronica, a bareback rider--to keep us from +starving--do you understand--you heartless idiot! + +BRIQUET + +You chase the girls too much! Some day you'll land in jail, Mancini! + +MANCINI + +In jail? Oh, no! Why, I have to uphold our _name_, the splendour of my +family, [_laughs_] haven't I? The Mancinis are known all over Italy for +their love of girls--just girls! Is it my fault if I must pay such crazy +prices for what my ancestors got free of charge? You're nothing but an +ass, a _parvenu_ ass. How can you understand Family Traditions? I don't +drink--I stopped playing cards after that accident--no, you need not +smile. Now if I give up the girls, what will be left of Mancini? Only a +coat of arms, that's all---- In the name of family traditions, +give me a hundred francs! + +BRIQUET + +I told you no, I won't. + +MANCINI + +You know that I leave half of the salary for Consuelo--but--perhaps you +think I do not love my child--my only daughter, all that remains to me +as a memory of her sainted mother--what cruelty! [_Pretends to cry, +wipes his eyes with a small and dirty lace handkerchief, embroidered +with a coronet._] + +BRIQUET + +Why don't you say, rather, that she is foolish enough to give you half +her salary. You make me sick---- + +[_Enter Zinida, the lion tamer; burningly beautiful, her self-confident, +commanding gestures at first glance give an impression of languor. She +is_ BRIQUET'S _unmarried wife._] + +ZINIDA + +[_To_ MANCINI]: Good morning. + +MANCINI + +Madame Zinida! This barbarian, this brute may pierce me with his dagger, +but I cannot control the expression of my love! [_Kneels facetiously +before her_] Madame! Count Mancini has the honour of asking you to be +his wife.... + +ZINIDA + +[_To_ BRIQUET]: Money? + +BRIQUET + +Yes. + +ZINIDA + +Don't give him any. [_Sits down wearily on a torn sofa, shuts her eyes. +MANCINI gets up and wipes his knees._] + +MANCINI + +Duchess! Don't be cruel. I am no lion, no tiger, no savage beast which +you are accustomed to tame. I am merely a poor domestic animal, who +wants, miaow, miaow, a little green grass. + +ZINIDA + +[_Without opening her eyes_]: Jim tells me you have a teacher for +Consuelo. What for? + +MANCINI + +The solicitude of a father, duchess, the solicitude and the tireless +anxiety of a loving heart. The extreme misfortunes of our family, when I +was a child, have left some flaws in her education. Friends, the +daughter of Count Mancini, Countess Veronica, can barely read! Is that +admissible? And you, Briquet, heartless brute, you still ask why I need +money! + +ZINIDA + +Artful! + +BRIQUET + +What are you teaching her? + +MANCINI + +Everything. A student had been giving her lessons, but I threw him out +yesterday. He had the nerve to fall in love with Consuelo and stood +there miaowing at the door like a cat. Everything, Briquet, that you +don't know--literature, mythology, orthography---- + +[_Two young actresses appear, with small fur coats thrown over their +light dresses. They are tired and sit down in the corner._] + +MANCINI + +I do not wish my daughter---- + +ZINIDA + +Artful! + +BRIQUET + +You are stupid, Mancini. What do you do it for? [_In a didactic tone_] +You are fearfully stupid, Mancini. Why does she need to learn? Since she +is here she need never know anything about that life. Don't you +understand? What is geography? If I were the government I would forbid +artists to read books. Let them read the posters, that's enough. + + [_During_ BRIQUET'S _speech, the two clowns and another actor + enter. They sit down wearily._] + +BRIQUET + +Right now, your Consuelo is an excellent artist, but just as soon as you +teach her mythology, and she begins to read, she'll become a nuisance, +she'll be corrupted, and then she'll go and poison herself. I know those +books, I've read 'em myself. All they teach is corruption, and how to +kill oneself. + +FIRST ACTRESS + +I love the novels that come out in the newspaper. + +BRIQUET + +That shows what a foolish girl you are. You'll be done for in no time. +Believe me, my friends, we must forget entirely what is happening out +there. How can we understand all that goes on there? + +MANCINI + +You are an enemy of enlightenment, you are an obscurantist, Briquet. + +BRIQUET + +And you are stupid. You are from out there. What has it taught you? +[_The actors laugh._] If you'd been born in a circus as I was, you'd +know something. Enlightenment is plain nonsense--nothing else. Ask +Zinida. She knows everything they teach out there--geography, +mythology---- Does it make her any happier? You tell them, dear. + +ZINIDA + +Leave me alone, Louis. + +MANCINI + +[_Angrily_]: Oh! Go to the devil! When I listen to your asinine +philosophy, I'd like to skin you for more than a paltry hundred +francs--for two hundred--for a thousand. Great God! What an ass of a +manager! Yes, right before every one of them I want to say that you are +a stingy old skinflint--that you pay starvation wages. I'll make you +give Consuelo a raise of a hundred francs. Listen, all you honest +vagabonds, tell me--who is it draws the crowd that fills the circus +every night? You? a couple of musical donkeys? Tigers, lions? Nobody +cares for those hungry cats! + +ZINIDA + +Leave the tigers alone. + +MANCINI + +Beg your pardon, Zinida. I did not mean to hurt your feelings--honestly. +I really marvel at your furious audacity--at your grace--you are a +heroine--I kiss your tiny hands. But what do they understand about +heroism? [_An orchestra softly plays the Tango in the circus. He +continues with enthusiasm._] Hear! hear! Now tell me, honest vagabonds, +who but Consuelo and Bezano draws the crowds! That Tango on +horseback--it is--it is---- Oh, the devil! Even his fatuousness +the Pope could not withstand its lure. + +POLLY + +True! It's a great trick--wasn't the idea Bezano's? + +MANCINI + +Idea! Idea! The lad's in love, like a cat--that's the idea. What's the +good of an idea without a woman! You wouldn't dance very far with your +idea alone, eh, Papa Briquet? + +BRIQUET + +We have a contract. + +MANCINI + +Such base formalities. + +ZINIDA + +Give him ten francs and let him go. + +MANCINI + +Ten! Never! _Fifteen!_ Don't be stubborn, Papa. For the traditions of my +house--twenty. I swear--on my honour--I can't do with less. [BRIQUET +_hands him twenty francs. Nonchalantly_] _Merci._ Thanks. + +ZINIDA + +Why don't you take it from your baron? + +MANCINI + +[_Raising his eyebrows haughtily, quite indignant_]: From the Baron? +Woman! who do you think I am that I should be beholden to a stranger? + +ZINIDA + +You're plotting something artful. I know you very little, but I guess +you're an awful scoundrel. + +MANCINI + +[_Laughs_]: Such an insult from such beautiful lips. + +[_Enter an "artist," apparently an athlete._] + +ATHLETE + +Papa Briquet, there's a gentleman from beyond the grave asking for you. + +ACTRESS + +A ghost? + +ATHLETE + +No. He seems alive. Did you ever see a drunken ghost? + +BRIQUET + +If he's drunk, tell him I'm out, Thomas. Does he want to see me or the +Count? + +ATHLETE + +No, you. Maybe he's not drunk, but just a ghost. + +MANCINI + +[_Draws himself together, puffs up_]: A society man? + +ATHLETE + +Yes. I'll tell him to come in. + + [_One hears the whip cracking in the ring. The Tango sounds very + low and distant--then comes nearer--louder. Silence._] + +BRIQUET + +[_Touching_ ZINIDA'S _arm_]: Tired? + +ZINIDA + +[_Drawing back a little_]: No. + +POLLY + +Your red lion is nervous to-day, Zinida! + +ZINIDA + +You shouldn't tease him. + +POLLY + +I played a melody from Traviata for him. And he sang with me. Wouldn't +that be a good trick to stage, Papa Briquet? + + [THOMAS _brings in the gentleman, points out the manager, and goes + heavily away. The gentleman is not young, and he is ugly, but his + rather strange face is bold and lively. He wears an expensive + overcoat, with a fur collar, and holds his hat and gloves in his + hand._] + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Bowing and smiling_]: Have I the pleasure of addressing the manager? + +BRIQUET + +Yes. Won't you sit down, please? Tilly, bring a chair. + +GENTLEMAN + +Oh! Don't trouble. [_Looks around._] These are your artists? Very +glad---- + +MANCINI + +[_Straightening and bowing slightly_]: Count Mancini. + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Surprised_]: Count? + +BRIQUET + +[_Indignantly_]: Yes, Count. And whom have I the honour of---- + +GENTLEMAN + +I don't quite know myself--yet. As a rule you choose your own names, +don't you? I have not chosen yet. Later you might advise me about it. I +have an idea already, but I am afraid it sounds too much like +literature--you know. + +BRIQUET + +Literature? + +GENTLEMAN + +Yes! Too sophisticated. [_They all look surprised._] I presume these two +gentlemen are clowns? I am so glad. May I shake hands with them? +[_Stands up and shakes hands with clowns, who make silly faces._] + +BRIQUET + +Excuse me--but what can I do for you? + +GENTLEMAN + +[_With the same pleasant, confident smile_]: Oh. You do something for +me? No. I want to do something for you, Papa Briquet. + +BRIQUET + +_Papa_ Briquet? But you don't look like---- + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Reassuringly_]: It's all right. I shall become "like." These two +gentlemen just made remarkable faces. Would you like to see me imitate +them? Look! [_He makes the same silly faces as the clowns._] + +BRIQUET + +Yes! [_Involuntarily_] You are not drunk, sir? + +GENTLEMAN + +No. I don't drink as a rule. Do I look drunk? + +POLLY + +A little. + +GENTLEMAN + +No--I don't drink. It is a peculiarity of my talent. + +BRIQUET + +[_Familiarly_]: Where did you work before? Juggler? + +GENTLEMAN + +No. But I am glad you feel in me a comrade, Papa Briquet. Unfortunately +I am not a juggler, and have worked nowhere--I am--just so. + +MANCINI + +But you look like a society man. + +GENTLEMAN + +Oh, you flatter me, Count. I am just so. + +BRIQUET + +Well, what do you want? You see I am obliged to tell you that everything +is taken. + +GENTLEMAN + +That's immaterial. I want to be a clown, if you will allow me. [_Some of +the actors smile_, BRIQUET _begins to grow angry_.] + +BRIQUET + +But what can you do? You're asking too much. What can you do? + +GENTLEMAN + +Why! Nothing! Isn't that funny! I can't do a thing. + +BRIQUET + +No, it's not funny. Any scoundrel knows that much. + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Rather helpless, but still smiling and looking around_]: We can invent +something---- + +BRIQUET + +[_Ironically_]: From literature? + +[_The clown Jackson enters slowly without being noticed by the others. +He stands behind the gentlemen._] + +GENTLEMAN + +Yes, one can find something literary, too. A nice little speech for +instance on, let's say, a religious topic. Something like a debate among +the clowns. + +BRIQUET + +A debate! The devil! This is no academy. + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Sadly_]: I am very sorry. Something else then. Perhaps a joke about +the creation of the world and its rulers? + +BRIQUET + +What about the police? No, no--nothing like that! + +JACKSON + +[_Coming forward_]: The rulers of the world? You don't like them? I +don't either. Shake. + +BRIQUET + +[_Introducing_]: Our chief clown, the famous Jackson. + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Enthusiastically_]: Great heavens--you! Allow me to shake hands with +you heartily! You, with your genius, you have given me so much joy! + +JACKSON + +I'm glad indeed! + +BRIQUET + +[_Shrugs his shoulders; to Jackson_]: He wants to be a clown! Look him +over, Jim. + + [_Jackson makes a motion at which the gentleman hurriedly removes + his coat and throws it on a chair. He is ready for the examination. + Jackson turns him round, looking him over critically._] + +JACKSON + +Clown? Hm! Turn round then. Clown? Yes? Now smile. Wider--broader--do +you call that a smile? So--that's better. There is something, yes--but +for full developments---- [_Sadly_]: Probably you can't even turn a +somersault? + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Sighs_]: No. + +JACKSON + +How old are you? + +GENTLEMAN + +Thirty-nine. Too late? [_Jackson moves away with a whistle. There is a +silence._] + +ZINIDA + +[_Softly_]: Take him. + +BRIQUET + +[_Indignant_]: What the hell shall I do with him if he doesn't know a +thing? He's drunk! + +GENTLEMAN + +Honestly I am not. Thank you for your support, Madame. Are you not the +famous Zinida, the lion tamer, whose regal beauty and audacity---- + +ZINIDA + +Yes. But I do not like flattery. + +GENTLEMAN + +It is not flattery. + +MANCINI + +You are evidently not accustomed to good society, my dear. Flattery? +This gentleman expresses his admiration in sincere and beautiful +words--and you--you are not educated, Zinida. As for myself---- + +[_Enter CONSUELO and BEZANO in circus costume._] + +CONSUELO + +You here, Daddy? + +MANCINI + +Yes, my child, you are not tired? [_Kisses her on the forehead._] My +daughter, sir, Countess Veronica. Known on the stage as Consuelo, The +Bareback Tango Queen. Did you ever see her? + +GENTLEMAN + +I have enjoyed her work. It is marvellous! + +MANCINI + +Yes! Of course. Everyone admits it. And how do you like the name, +Consuelo? I took it from the novel of George Sand. It means +"Consolation." + +GENTLEMAN + +What a wonderful knowledge of books! + +MANCINI + +A small thing. Despite your strange intention, I can see, sir, that you +are a gentleman. My peer! Let me explain to you, that only the strange +and fatal misfortunes of our ancient family--"_sic transit gloria +mundi_," sir. + +CONSUELO + +It's a bore, Daddy---- Where's my handkerchief, Alfred? + +BEZANO + +Here it is. + +CONSUELO + +[_Showing the handkerchief to the gentleman_]: Genuine Venetian. Do you +like it? + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Again bowing_]: My eyes are dazzled, how beautiful! Papa Briquet, the +more I look around me the more I want to stay with you. [_Makes the face +of a simpleton._] On the one hand a count, on the other---- + +JACKSON + +[_Nods approval_]: That's not bad. Look here, think a bit--find +something. Everyone here thinks for himself. + + [_Silence. The gentleman stands with a finger on his forehead, + thinking._] + +GENTLEMAN + +Find something--find something ... Eureka! + +POLLY + +That means _found_. Come! + +GENTLEMAN + +Eureka---- I shall be among you, he who gets slapped. [_General +laughter. Even_ BRIQUET _smiles_.] + +GENTLEMAN + +[Looks at them smiling]: You see I made even you laugh--is that easy? +[_All grow serious. Polly sighs._] + +TILLY + +No, it's not easy. Did you laugh, Polly? + +POLLY + +Sure, a lot. Did you? + +TILLY + +I did. [_Imitating an instrument, he plays with his lips a melody at +once sad and gay._] + +JACKSON + +"He Who Gets Slapped," that's not bad. + +GENTLEMAN + +It's not, is it? I rather like it myself. It suits my talent. And +comrades, I have even found a name--you'll call me "HE." Is that all +right? + +JACKSON + +[_Thinking_]: "HE"--Not bad. + +CONSUELO + +[_In a singing, melodic voice_]: "HE" is so funny--"HE"--like a dog. +Daddy, are there such dogs? + + [_Jackson suddenly gives a circus slap to the gentleman. HE steps + back and grows pale._] + +GENTLEMAN + +What!--[_General laughter covers his exclamation._] + +JACKSON + +HE Who Gets Slapped. Or didn't you get it? + +POLLY + +[_Comically_]: He says he wants more---- [_The gentleman smiles, rubbing +his cheek._] + +GENTLEMAN + +So sudden.--Without waiting.--How funny--you didn't hurt me, and yet my +cheek burns. + + [_Again there is loud laughter. The clowns cackle like ducks, hens, + cocks; they bark._ ZINIDA _says something to_ BRIQUET, _casts a + glance toward_ BEZANO, _and goes out_. MANCINI _assumes a bored air + and looks at his watch_. _The two actresses go out._] + +JACKSON + +Take him, Papa Briquet--he will push us. + +MANCINI + +[_Again looking at his watch_]: But bear in mind, that Papa Briquet is +as close as Harpagon. If you expect to get good money here you are +mistaken. [_HE laughs._] A slap? What's a slap? Worth only small change, +a franc and a half a dozen. Better go back to society; you will make +more money there. Why for one slap, just a light tap, you might say, my +friend, Marquis Justi, was paid fifty thousand lire! + +BRIQUET + +Shut up, Mancini. Will you take care of him, Jackson. + +JACKSON + +I can. + +POLLY + +Do you like music? A Beethoven sonata played on a broom, for instance, +or Mozart on a bottle? + +HE + +Alas! No. But I will be exceedingly grateful if you will teach me. A +clown! My childhood's dream. When all my school friends were thrilled by +Plutarch's heroes, or the light of science--I dreamed of clowns. +Beethoven on a broom, Mozart on bottles! Just what I have sought all my +life! Friends, I must have a costume! + +JACKSON + +I see you don't know much! A costume [_putting his finger on his +forehead_] is a thing which calls for deep thought. Have you seen my Sun +here? [_Strikes his posterior._] I looked for it two years. + +HE + +[_Enthusiastically_]: I shall think! + +MANCINI + +It is time for me to go. Consuelo, my child, you must get dressed. [_To +HE._] We are lunching with Baron Regnard, a friend of mine, a banker. + +CONSUELO + +But I don't want to go, Daddy. Alfred says I must rehearse to-day. + +MANCINI + +[_Horrified, holding up his hands_]: Child, think of me, and what a +situation you put me in! I promised the Baron, the Baron expects us. +Why, it is impossible! Oh, I am in a cold sweat. + +CONSUELO + +Alfred says---- + +BEZANO + +[_Drily_]: She has to work. Are you rested? Then come on. + +MANCINI + +But--the devil take me if I know what to make of it. Hey, Bezano, +bareback rider! Are you crazy? I gave you permission for Art's sake, to +exercise my daughter's talent--and you---- + +CONSUELO + +Go along, Papa, and don't be so silly. We've got to work, haven't we? +Have lunch along with your Baron. And Daddy, you forgot to take a clean +handkerchief again, and I washed two for you yesterday. Where did you +put them? + +MANCINI + +[_Ashamed, blushing_]: Why, my linen is washed by the laundress, and +you, Consuelo, are still playing with toys. It is stupid! You're a +chatter-box. You don't think. These gentlemen might imagine Heaven knows +what. How stupid. I'm off. + +CONSUELO + +Do you want me to write him a little note? + +MANCINI + +[_Angrily_]: A little note? Your little notes would make a horse laugh! +Good-bye. + + [_He goes out toying angrily with his cane. The clowns follow him + respectfully, playing a funeral march. HE and_ JACKSON _laugh. The + actors disappear one by one._] + +CONSUELO + +[_Laughing_]: Do I really write so badly? And I love so to write. Did +you like my note, Alfred--or did you laugh, too? + +BEZANO + +[_Blushing_]: No, I did not. Come on, Consuelo. + + [_They go, and meet_ ZINIDA, _entering. Consuelo passes on._] + +ZINIDA + +Are you going back to work, BEZANO? + +BEZANO + +[_Politely_]: Yes. To-day is a very bad day. How are your lions, Zinida? +I think the weather affects them. + +CONSUELO + +[_From the ring_]: Alfred! + +ZINIDA + +Yes. Some one is calling you. You'd better go. [_Alfred goes out. To_ +BRIQUET] Are you finished? + +BRIQUET + +Right away. + +JACKSON + +Then good-bye till evening. Think about your costume, HE, and I shall +look for some idea, too. Be here at ten to-morrow. Don't be late, or +you'll get another slap. And I'll work with you. + +HE + +I shall not be late. [_He looks after_ JACKSON _who goes out._] Must be +a nice man. All the people about you are so nice, Papa Briquet. I +suppose that good-looking bareback rider is in love with Consuelo, isn't +he? [_Laughs._] + +ZINIDA + +It's none of your business. For a newcomer you go poking your nose too +far. How much does he want, Papa? + +BRIQUET + +Just a minute. See here HE. I don't want to make a contract with you. + +HE + +Just as you please. Do you know what? Don't let us talk about money. You +are an honest fellow, Briquet; you will see what my work is worth to +you, and then---- + +BRIQUET + +[_Pleased_]: Now that's very nice of you. Zinida, the man really doesn't +know anything. + +ZINIDA + +Well, do as he suggests. Now we must write it down. Where's the book? + +BRIQUET + +Here. [_To HE_.] I don't like to write [_gives book to_ ZINIDA], but we +have to put down the names of the actors, you know--it's police +regulations. Then if anyone kills himself, or---- + + [_Again comes the sound of the Tango, and calls from the ring._] + +ZINIDA + +What is your name? + +HE + +[_Smiling_]: HE. I chose it, you know. Or don't you like it? + +BRIQUET + +We like it all right--but we have to have your real name. Have you a +passport? + +HE + +[_Confused_]: A passport? No, I have none. Or, rather, yes. I have +something of the kind, but I had no idea the rules were strictly +enforced here. What do you need papers for? + + [ZINIDA _and_ BRIQUET _look at each other_. ZINIDA _pushes the book + aside_.] + +ZINIDA + +Then we can't take you. We cannot quarrel with the police, just on your +account. + +BRIQUET + +She is my wife. I hadn't told you. She's right. You might get hurt by a +horse, or hurt yourself--or do something. We don't know you, you see. I +personally don't care, but out there, it's different, you see. For me a +corpse is just a corpse--and I don't ask anything about him. It's up to +God or the Devil. But they--they're too curious. Well, I suppose it's +necessary for order. I don't know---- Got a card? + +HE + +[_Rubs his head, thinking_]: What shall I do? I have my card, but +[_smiles_] you understand that I don't want my name to be known. + +BRIQUET + +Some story, hey? + +HE + +Yes, something like that. Why can't you imagine that I have no name? +Can't I lose it as I might lose my hat? Or let someone else take it by +mistake? When a stray dog comes to you, you don't ask his name--you +simply give him another. Let me be that dog. [_Laughing_] HE--the Dog! + +ZINIDA + +Why don't you tell us your name, just the two of us. Nobody else need +know it. Unless you should break your neck---- + +HE + +[_Hesitates_]: Honestly? [ZINIDA _shrugs her shoulders_.] + +BRIQUET + +Where people are honest, their word is good. One sees you come from _out +there_. + +HE + +All right. But please, don't be surprised. [_Gives_ ZINIDA _his card. +She looks at it, then hands it to_ BRIQUET, _then both look at HE_.] + +BRIQUET + +If it is true, sir, that you are really what is written here---- + +HE + +For heaven's sake--for heaven's sake--this does not exist, but was lost +long ago; it is just a check for an old hat. I pray you to forget it, as +I have. I am HE Who Gets Slapped--nothing else. [_Silence._] + +BRIQUET + +I beg your pardon, sir, but I must ask you again, I must humbly ask +you--are you not drunk, sir? There is something in your +eye--something---- + +HE + +No, no. I am He, Who Gets Slapped. Since when do you speak to me like +this, Papa Briquet? You offend me. + +ZINIDA + +After all, it's his business, Briquet. [_She hides the card._] Truly you +are a strange man. [_Smiles._] And you have already noticed that Bezano +is in love with the horse-girl? And that I love my Briquet, did you +notice that, too? + +HE + +[_Also smiling_]: Oh, yes. You adore him. + +ZINIDA + +I adore him. Now go with him, Briquet, show him the ring and the +stables--I have something to write. + +HE + +Yes, yes, please. I am so happy. At last you have taken me, haven't you? +It is true--you're not joking. The circus, the tan-bark, the ring in +which I shall run getting my slaps. Yes, yes, Briquet, let's go. Until I +feel the sawdust under my feet, I shall not believe it. + +BRIQUET + +All right then. [_Kisses_ ZINIDA.] Come on. + +ZINIDA + +Just a minute--HE! Answer me a question. I have a man who takes care of +the cages, a plain fellow whom nobody knows. He just cleans the cages +you know; he walks in and out whenever he wants to, without even looking +at the lions, as if he were perfectly at home. Why is that so? Nobody +knows him, everybody knows me, everyone is afraid for me, while---- And +he is such a silly man--you will see him. [_Laughs._] But don't you +think of entering the cage yourself! My red one would give you such a +slap! + +BRIQUET + +[_Displeased_]: There you are again, Zinida--stop it. + +ZINIDA + +[_Laughs_]: All right--go. Oh yes, Louis, send me Bezano. I have to +settle an account with him. + + [HE _and the director go out_. ZINIDA _looks at the card once more, + then hides it. She gets up and walks quickly up and down the room. + She stops to listen to the Tango, which ends abruptly. Then she + stands motionless, looking straight at the dark opening of the door + through which_ BEZANO _comes_.] + +BEZANO + +[_Entering_]: You called me, Zinida? What do you want? Tell me quickly, +I have no time---- + + [ZINIDA _looks at him silently_. BEZANO _flushes with anger, and + knits his eyebrows. He turns to the door to go._] + +ZINIDA + +Bezano! + +BEZANO + +[_Stops, without looking up_]: What do you want? I have no time. + +ZINIDA + +Bezano! I keep hearing people say that you are in love with Consuelo. Is +it true? + +BEZANO + +[_Shrugging his shoulders_]: We work well together. + +ZINIDA + +[_Takes a step forward_]: No---- Tell me, Alfred, do you love her? + +BEZANO + +[_Flushes like a boy, but looks straight into_ ZINIDA'S _eyes. +Proudly_]: I do not love anybody. No, I love nobody. How can I? +Consuelo? She is here to-day, gone to-morrow, if her father should take +her away. And I? Who am I? An acrobat, the son of a Milanese +shoemaker---- She! I cannot even talk about it. Like my horses I have no +words. Who am I to love? + +ZINIDA + +Do you love me? A little? + +BEZANO + +No. I told you before. + +ZINIDA + +Still no? Not even a little? + +BEZANO + +[_After a silence_]: I am afraid of you. + +ZINIDA + +[_Wants to cry out, indignantly, but masters herself and lowers her +eyes, as if in an effort to shut out their light; turns pale_]: Am I ... +so terrifying a woman---- + +BEZANO + +You are beautiful, like a queen. You are almost as beautiful as +Consuelo. But I don't like your eyes. Your eyes command me to love +you--and I don't like to be commanded. I am afraid of you. + +ZINIDA + +Do I command, Bezano? No--only implore. + +BEZANO + +Then why not look at me straight? Now I have it. You know yourself that +your eyes cannot implore. [_Laughs._] Your lions have spoiled you. + +ZINIDA + +My red lion loves me---- + +BEZANO + +Never! If he loves you, why is he so sad? + +ZINIDA + +Yesterday he was licking my hands like a dog. + +BEZANO + +And this morning he was looking for you to devour you. He thrusts out +his muzzle and looks out, as if he sees only you. He is afraid of you, +and he hates you. Or do you want me to lick your hands too, like a dog? + +ZINIDA + +No, Alfred, but I--I want to kiss _your_ hand. [_With passion_]: Give it +to me! + +BEZANO + +[_Severely_]: I am ashamed to listen to you when you speak like that. + +ZINIDA + +[_Controlling herself_]: One should not torture another as you torture +me. Alfred, I love you. No, I do not command. Look into my eyes---- _I +love you._ [_Silence._] + +BEZANO + +[_Turns to go_]: Good-bye. + +ZINIDA + +Alfred---- + +[HE _appears in the doorway, and stops_.] + +BEZANO + +Please never tell me any more that you love me. I don't want it. +Otherwise I will quit. You pronounce the word love as if you were +cracking me with your whip. You know it is disgusting---- + + [_He turns brusquely and goes. Both notice HE_; BEZANO, _frowning, + passes out quickly_. ZINIDA _returns to her place at the desk, with + a proudly indifferent expression_.] + +HE + +[_Coming in_]: I beg your pardon, but I---- + +ZINIDA + +There you are again, poking your nose into everything, HE. Do you really +want a slap? + +HE + +[_Laughing_]: No. I simply forgot my overcoat. I didn't hear anything. + +ZINIDA + +I don't care whether you did or not. + +HE + +May I take my coat? + +ZINIDA + +Take it if it's yours. Sit down, HE. + +HE + +I am sitting down. + +ZINIDA + +Now tell me HE, could you love me? + +HE + +[_Laughing_]: I? I and Love! Look at me, Zinida. Did you ever see a +lover with such a face? + +ZINIDA + +One can succeed with such a face---- + +HE + +That's because I am happy--because I lost my hat--because I am drunk--or +perhaps I am not drunk. But I feel as dizzy as a young girl at her +first ball. It is so nice here--slap me, I want to play my part. Perhaps +it will awaken love in my heart, too. Love--[_as if listening to his own +heart with pretended terror_] do you know--I feel it! + +[_In the circus the Tango is played again_.] + +ZINIDA + +[_Listening too_]: For me? + +HE + +No. I don't know. For everyone. [_Listens to the music._] Yes, they are +dancing--how beautiful Consuelo is--and how beautiful is the youth. He +has the body of a Greek God; he looks as if he had been modeled by +Praxiteles. Love! Love! [_Silence, music._.] + +ZINIDA + +Tell me, HE---- + +HE + +At your service, Queen! + +ZINIDA + +HE, what shall I do, to make my lions love me? + +CURTAIN + + + + +ACT II + + +_The same room, during the evening performance. Occasional music, +laughter, shrieks, and applause are audible. Through the small windows, +back centre, the light is shining._ + +_Consuelo and Baron Regnard occupy the stage; Consuelo wears her stage +costume; she sits with her feet on the sofa, a small shawl covering her +shoulders. Before her stands the Baron, a tall stout man in evening +dress, a rose in his button-hole; grasping the ground with feet well +apart, he gazes at her with convex spider-like eyes._ + +BARON + +Is it true that your father, the Count, has introduced you to a certain +Marquis Justi, a very rich man? + +CONSUELO + +[_Surprised_]: No, he is only joking. I have often heard him speak of a +Marquis Justi but I have never seen him---- + +BARON + +And do you know that your father is just a charlatan? + +CONSUELO + +Oh! Don't say that--Father is such a dear. + +BARON + +Did you like the jewels? + +CONSUELO + +Yes, very much. I was very sorry when Father told me I must return them. +He said it would not be nice for me to keep them. I even cried a little +about it. + +BARON + +Your father is only a beggar and a charlatan. + +CONSUELO + +Oh, no, don't scold him--he loves you so much. + +BARON + +Let me kiss your hand---- + +CONSUELO + +Oh, no, it isn't proper! One may kiss the hand only when one says how do +you do or good-bye. But in the meantime you can't. + +BARON + +Everybody is in love with you, that is why you and your father make such +a fuss about yourselves. Who is that new clown they call HE? I don't +like him, he's too shrewd a beast.... Is he in love with you, too? I +noticed the way he looked at you.... + +CONSUELO + +[_Laughing_]: Nothing of the kind. He is so funny! He got fifty-two +slaps yesterday. We counted them. Think of it, fifty-two slaps! Father +said, "if they had only been gold pieces." + +BARON + +And Bezano, Consuelo.... Do you like him? + +CONSUELO + +Yes, very much. He is so good-looking. He says that Bezano and I are the +most beautiful couple in the world. HE calls him Adam, and me Eve. But +that's improper, isn't it? HE is _so_ improper. + +BARON + +And does HE speak to you very often? + +CONSUELO + +Yes, often.... But I don't understand him. It seems as if he were drunk. + +BARON + +"Consuelo"!... It means in Spanish ... Consolation. Your father is an +ass.... Consuelo, I love you. + +CONSUELO + +Talk it over with Father. + +BARON + +[_Angry_]: Your father is a swindler and a charlatan. He should be +turned over to the police. Don't you understand that I _cannot_ marry +you? + +CONSUELO + +But Father says you can.... + +BARON + +No, I cannot. And what if I shoot myself? Consuelo, silly girl, I love +you unbearably ... unbearably, do you understand? I am probably mad ... +and must be taken to a doctor, yanked about, beaten with sticks. Why do +I love you so much, Consuelo? + +CONSUELO + +Then, you'd better marry. + +BARON + +I have had a hundred women, beauties, but I didn't see them. You are the +first and I don't see any one else. Who strikes man with love, God or +the Devil? The Devil struck me. Let me kiss your hand. + +CONSUELO + +No. [_She thinks a while and sighs._] + +BARON + +Do you think sometimes? What are you thinking about now Consuelo? + +CONSUELO + +[_With another sigh_]: I don't know why, I just felt sorry for Bezano. +[_Sighs again._] He is so nice to me when he teaches me ... and he has +such a tiny little room. + +BARON + +[_Indignant_]: You were there? + +CONSUELO + +No. He told me about it. [_Smiling_] Do you hear the noise in there? +That's HE getting slapped. Poor thing ... although I know it doesn't +hurt, it's only make-believe. The intermission is coming soon. + + [_The_ BARON _throws away his cigar, takes two quick steps forward, + and falls on his knees before the girl_.] + +BARON + +Consuelo---- + +CONSUELO + +Please, don't. Get up. Please leave my hand alone. + +BARON + +Consuelo! + +CONSUELO + +[_Disgusted_]: Get up please, it's disgusting--you're so fat. + + [_The_ BARON _gets up. Voices are heard near the door and in the + ring. It is the intermission. The clowns come first, talking + cheerfully and excitedly. He leads them, in his clown's dress, + with painted eyebrows and white nose; the others are applauding + him. Voices of the actors calling: "Bravo! HE." Then come the + actors and actresses, riding-masters, and the rest, all in costume. + ZINIDA is not among them. PAPA BRIQUET comes a little later._] + +POLLY + +A hundred slaps! Bravo, HE! + +JACKSON + +Not bad, not bad at all. You'll make a career. + +TILLY + +He was the Professor to-day, and we were the students. Here goes +another! [_Gives him a clown's slap. Laughter. All bid good evening to +the BARON. He is politely rude to these vagabonds who bore him, and +remains silent. They seem quite used to it. Enter MANCINI. He is the +same, and with the same cane._] + +MANCINI + +[_Shaking hands_]: What a success, Baron--and think of it--how the crowd +does love slaps. [_Whispering_] Your knees are dusty, Baron, brush them +off. The floor is very dirty in here. [_Aloud_] Consuelo, dear child, +how do you feel? [_Goes over to his daughter. Sound of laughing, +chattering. The waiters from the buffet in the lobby bring in soda and +wine. Consuelo's voice it heard._] + +CONSUELO + +And where is Bezano? + +HE + +[_Bows before the_ BARON, _affecting intimacy_]: _You_ do not recognize +me, Baron? + +BARON + +Yes I do. You are the clown, HE. + +HE + +Yes I am HE Who Gets Slapped. May I presume to ask you, Baron, did you +get your jewels back? + +BARON + +What! + +HE + +I was asked to return some jewels to you, and I take the liberty of---- +[_The_ BARON _turns his back on him--HE laughs loudly_.] + +JACKSON + +Whiskey and soda! Believe me, ladies and gents, HE will surely make a +career. I am an old clown, and I know the crowd. Why to-day, he even +eclipsed _me_--and clouds have covered my Sun. [_Striking it._] They do +not like puzzles, they want slaps! They are longing for them and +dreaming about them in their homes. Your health, HE! Another whiskey and +soda! HE got so many slaps to-day, there would be enough to go round the +whole orchestra! + +TILLY + +I bet there wouldn't! [_To Jackson_] Shake! + +POLLY + +I bet there wouldn't--I'll go and count the old mugs. + +A VOICE + +The orchestra did not laugh---- + +JACKSON + +Because they were getting it, but the galleries did, because they were +looking at the orchestra getting slapped. Your health, HE! + +HE + +Your's Jim! Tell me, why didn't you let me finish my speech--I was just +getting a good start. + +JACKSON + +[_Seriously_]: My friend, because your speech was a sacrilege. +Politics--all right. Manners--as much as you want. But Providence--leave +it in peace. And believe me, friend, I shut your mouth in time. Didn't +I, Papa Briquet? + +BRIQUET + +[_Coming nearer_]: Yes. It was too much like literature. This is not an +academy. You forget yourself, HE. + +TILLY + +But to shut one's mouth--faugh.... + +BRIQUET + +[_In a didactic tone_]: Whenever one shuts one's mouth, it is always +high time to shut it, unless one is drinking. Hey, whiskey and soda! + +VOICES + +Whiskey and soda for the Manager! + +MANCINI + +But this is obscurantism. Philosophizing again, Briquet? + +BRIQUET + +I am not satisfied with you to-day, HE. Why do you tease them? They +don't like it. Your health! A good slap must be clean like a +crystal--fft-fft! right side, left side, and done with it. They will +like it; they will laugh, and love you. But in your slaps there is a +certain bite, you understand, a certain smell---- + +HE + +But they laughed, nevertheless! + +BRIQUET + +But without pleasure, without pleasure, HE. You pay, and immediately +draw a draft on their bank; it's not the right game--they won't like +you. + +JACKSON + +That's what _I_ tell him. He had already begun to make them angry. + +BEZANO + +[_Entering_]: Consuelo, where are you? I have been looking for you--come +on. [_Both go out. The_ BARON, _after hesitating a while, follows +them_. MANCINI _accompanies him respectfully to the door_.] + +HE + +[_Sighs_]: You don't understand, my dear friends; you are simply old, +and have forgotten the smell of the stage. + +JACKSON + +Aha! Who is old, my young man? + +HE + +Don't be angry, Jim. It's a play, don't you understand? I become happy +when I enter the ring and hear the music. I wear a mask and I feel +humorous. There is a mask on my face, and I play. I may say _anything_ +like a drunkard. Do you understand? Yesterday when I, with this stupid +face, was playing the great man, the philosopher [_he assumes a proud +monumental pose, and repeats the gesture of the play--general laughter_] +I was walking this way, and was telling how great, how wise, how +incomparable I was--how God lived in me, how high I stood above the +earth--how glory shone above my head [_his voice changes and he is +speaking faster_] then you, Jim, you hit me for the first time. And I +asked you, "What is it, they're applauding me?" Then, at the tenth +slap, I said: "It seems to me that they sent for me from the Academy?" +[_Acts, looking around him with an air of unconquerable pride and +splendour. Laughter. Jackson gives him a real slap._] + +HE + +[_Holding his face_]: Why? + +JACKSON + +Because you're a fool, and play for nothing. Waiter, the check. +(_Laughter. The bell calls them to the ring. The actors go out in haste, +some running. The waiters collect their money._) + +BRIQUET + +[_In a sing-song_]: To the ring--to the ring-- + +MANCINI + +I want to tell you something, HE. You are not going yet? + +HE + +No. I'll take a rest. + +BRIQUET + +To the ring--to the ring-- + + [_The clowns as they go sing in shrill, squeaky voices. Little by + little they all disappear, and loud music begins. HE seats himself + on the sofa with his legs crossed, and yawns._] + +MANCINI + +HE, you have something none of my ancestors ever had--money. Let's have +a nice bottle on you. Waiter, please--[_The waiter who was taking up +dishes, brings a bottle of wine and glasses and goes out._] + +HE + +You're blue, Mancini. [_Stretches._] Well, at my age, a hundred +slaps--it seems pretty hard. So you're blue. How are things getting on +with your girl? + +MANCINI + +Tss! Bad! Complications--parents--[_shudders_] Agh-- + +HE + +Prison! + +MANCINI + +[_Laughing_]: Prison! Mustn't I uphold the glory of my name now, eh? HE, +I'm joking--but there is Hell in my heart. You're the only one who +understands me. But tell me how to explain this passion? It will turn +my hair grey, it'll bring me to prison, to the grave. I am a tragic man. +HE--[_Wipes his eyes with a dirty handkerchief._] Why don't I like +things which are not forbidden? Why, at all moments, even at the very +moment of ecstasy, must I be reminded of some law--it is stupid. HE, I +am becoming an anarchist. Good God!--Count Mancini, an anarchist. That's +the only thing I've missed. + +HE + +Isn't there a way of settling it somehow? + +MANCINI + +Is there a way of getting money, somehow? + +HE + +And the Baron? + +MANCINI + +Oh, yes! He's just waiting for it, the bloodsucker! He'll get what he's +after. Some day, you'll see me give him Consuelo for ten thousand +francs, perhaps for five! + +HE + +Cheap. + +MANCINI + +Did I say it was anything else? Do I want to do it? But these bourgeois +are strangling me, they've got me by the throat. HE, one can easily see +that you're a gentleman, and of good society, you understand me--I +showed you the jewels which I sent back to him--damn honesty--I didn't +even dare change the stones, put false ones-- + +HE + +Why? + +MANCINI + +It would have queered the game. Do you think he didn't weigh the +diamonds when he got them back? + +HE + +He will not marry her. + +MANCINI + +Yes he will. You don't understand. [_Laughs._] The first half of his +life, this man had only appetites--now love's got him. If he does not +get Consuelo, he is lost, he is--like a withered narcissus. Plague take +him with his automobiles. Did you see his car? + +HE + +I did.... Give Consuelo to the Jockey-- + +MANCINI + +To Bezano? [_Laughs._] What nonsense you do talk! Oh, I know. It's your +joke about Adam and Eve. But please stop it. It's clever, but it +compromises the child. She told me about it. + +HE + +Or give her to me. + +MANCINI + +Have you a billion? [_Laughs._] Ah, HE, I'm not in the proper mood to +listen to your clownish jokes--They say there are terrible jails in this +country, and no discriminations are being made between people of my +kind, and plain scoundrels. Why do you look at me like that? You're +making fun of me? + +HE + +No. + +MANCINI + +I'll never get accustomed to those faces. You're so disgustingly made +up. + +HE + +He will not marry her. You can be as proud as you please, Mancini, but +he'll not marry her. What _is_ Consuelo? She is not educated. When she +is off her horse, any good housemaid from a decent house has nicer +manners, and speaks better. [_Nonchalantly_] Don't _you_ think she's +stupid? + +MANCINI + +No, she's not stupid. And you, HE, are a fool. What need has a woman of +intelligence? Why, HE, you astonish me. Consuelo is an unpolished jewel, +and only a real donkey does not notice her sparkle. Do you know what +happened? I tried to begin to polish her-- + +HE + +Yes, you took a teacher. And what happened? + +MANCINI + +[_Nodding his head_]: I was frightened--it went too fast--I had to +dismiss him. Another month or two, and _she_ would have kicked _me_ out. +[_Laughs._] The clever old diamond merchants of Amsterdam keep their +precious stones unpolished, and fool the thieves. My father taught me +that. + +HE + +The sleep of a diamond. It is only sleeping, then. You are wise, +Mancini. + +MANCINI + +Do you know what blood flows in the veins of an Italian woman? The blood +of Hannibal and Corsini--of a Borgia--and of a dirty Lombardi +peasant--and of a Moor. Oh! an Italian woman is not of a lower race, +with only peasants and gypsies behind her. All possibilities, all forms +are included in her, as in our marvelous sculpture. Do you understand +that, you fool? Strike here--out springs a washerwoman, or a cheap +street girl whom you want to throw out, because she is sloppy and has a +screechy voice. Strike there--but carefully and gently, for there stands +a queen, a goddess, the Venus of the Capitol, who sings like a +Stradivarius and makes you cry, idiot! An Italian woman-- + +HE + +You're quite a poet, Mancini! But what will the Baron make of her? + +MANCINI + +What? What? Make of _her_? A baroness, you fool! What are you laughing +at? I don't get you? But I am happy that this lovesick beast is neither +a duke nor a prince--or she would be a princess and I--what would become +of me? A year after the wedding they would not let me even into the +kitchen [_laughing_] not even into the kitchen! I, Count Mancini, and +she a--a simple-- + +HE + +[_Jumping up_]: What did you say? You are not her father, Mancini? + +MANCINI + +Tss--the devil--I am so nervous to-day! Heavens, who do you think I am? +"Her father?" Of course [_tries to laugh_] how silly you are--haven't +you noticed the family resemblance? Just look, the nose, the +eyes--[_Suddenly sighs deeply._] Ah, HE! How unhappy I am! Think of it. +Here I am, a gentleman, nearly beaten in my struggle to keep up the +honour of my name, of an old house, while there in the parquet--there +sits that beast, an elephant with the eyes of a spider ... and he looks +at Consuelo ... and.... + +HE + +Yes, yes, he has the motionless stare of a spider--you're right! + +MANCINI + +Just what I say--a spider! But I must, I shall compel him to marry her. +You'll see--[_Walking excitedly up and down, playing with his cane._] +You'll see! All my life I've been getting ready for this battle. [_He +continues to walk up and down. Silence. Outside, great stillness._] + +HE + +[_Listening_]: Why is it so quiet out there? What a strange silence. + +MANCINI + +[_Disgusted_]: I don't know. Out there it is quiet--but here [_touching +his forehead with his cane_] here is storm, whirlwind. [_Bends over the +clown._] HE, shall I tell you a strange thing--an unusual trick of +nature? [_Laughs, and looks very important._] For three centuries the +Counts Mancini have had no children! [_Laughs._] + +HE + +Then how were you born? + +MANCINI + +Sh! Silence! That is the secret of our sainted mothers! Ha-ha! We are +too ancient a stock--too exquisitely refined to trouble ourselves with +such things--matters in which a peasant is more competent than +ourselves. [_Enter an usher._] What do you want? The manager is on the +stage. + +THE USHER + +Yes, sir. Baron Regnard wished me to give you this letter. + +MANCINI + +The Baron? Is he there? + +THE USHER + +Baron Regnard has left. There is no answer. + +MANCINI + +[_Opening the envelope, his hand shaking_]: The devil--the devil! [_The +usher is going._] + +HE + +Just a minute. Why is there no music? This silence.... + +THE USHER + +It is the act with Madame Zinida and her lions. [_He goes._ MANCINI _is +reading the_ BARON'S _note for the second time._] + +HE + +What's the matter, Mancini? You shine like Jackson's sun. + +MANCINI + +What's the matter, did you ask? What's the matter? What's the matter? +[_Balancing his cane, he takes steps like a ballet-dancer._] + +HE + +Mancini! [MANCINI _rolls his eyes, makes faces, dances_.] Speak, you +beast! + +MANCINI + +[_Holds out his hand_]: Give me ten francs! Quick--ten francs--here, +come on. [_Puts it automatically into his vest pocket._] Listen, HE! If +in a month I don't have a car of my own, you may give me one of your +slaps! + +HE + +What! He's going to marry? He's decided? + +MANCINI + +What do you mean by "decided?" [_Laughs._] When a man has the rope about +his neck, you don't ask him about his health! Baron--[_Stops suddenly, +startled._ BRIQUET _is staggering in like a drunken man, his hand over +his eyes_.] + +HE + +[_Goes to him, touches his shoulder gently_]: What is the matter, Papa +Briquet? Tell me! + +BRIQUET + +[_Groaning_]: Oh, oh, I can't ... I can't ... Ah---- + +HE + +Something has happened? You are ill? Please speak. + +BRIQUET + +I can't look at it! [_Takes his hands from his eyes, opens them wide._] +Why does she do it? Ah, ah, why does she do it? She must be taken away; +she is insane. I couldn't look at it. [_Shivers._] They will tear her to +pieces. HE--her lions--they will tear her-- + +MANCINI + +Go on, Briquet. She is always like that. You act like a child. You ought +to be ashamed. + +BRIQUET + +No---- To-day she is mad! And what is the matter with the crowd? +They are all like dead people--they're not even breathing. I couldn't +stand it. Listen--what's that? [_All listen. There is the same +silence._] + +MANCINI + +[_Disturbed_]: I'll go and see. + +BRIQUET + +[_Yelling_]: No! Don't! You can't look--damned profession! Don't go. You +will scorch her--every pair of eyes that looks at her--at her lions--no, +no. It is impossible--it is a sacrilege. I ran away.... HE, they will +tear her---- + +HE + +[_Tries to be cheerful_]: Keep cool, Papa Briquet--I had no idea you +were such a coward. You ought to be ashamed. Have a drink. Mancini, give +him some wine. + +BRIQUET + +I don't want any. Heavens, if it were only over---- [_All +listen._] I have seen many things in my life, but this.... Oh, she is +crazy. [_All still listen. Suddenly the silence breaks, like a huge +stone wall crashing. There is a thunder of applause, mixed with shouts, +music, wild screams--half bestial, half human. The men give way, +relieved. Briquet sinks to a seat._] + +MANCINI + +[_Nervous_]: You see--you see--you old fool! + +BRIQUET + +[_Sobs and laughs_]: I am not going to allow it any more! + +HE + +Here she is! + + [_Zinida walks in, alone. She looks like a drunken bacchante, or + like a mad woman. Her hair falls over her shoulders dishevelled, + one shoulder is uncovered. She walks unseeing, though her eyes + glow. She is like the living statue of a mad Victory. Behind her + comes an actor, very pale, then two clowns, and a little later + Consuelo and Bezano. All look at Zinida fearfully, as if they were + afraid of a touch of her hand, or her great eyes._] + +BRIQUET + +[_Shouting_]: You are crazy--you're a mad woman! + +ZINIDA + +I? No. Did you see? Did you see? Well? [_She stands smiling, with the +expression of a mad Victory._] + +TILLY + +[_Plaintively_]: Cut it out, Zinida. Go to the devil! + +ZINIDA + +You saw, too! And!... what---- + +BRIQUET + +Come home--come home. [_To the others_] You can do what you like here. +Zinida, come home. + +POLLY + +You can't go, Papa. There's still your number. + +ZINIDA + +[_Her eyes meet those of Bezano_]: Ah! Bezano. [_Laughs long and +happily_.] Bezano! Alfred! Did you see? My lions _do_ love me! [_Bezano, +without answering, leaves the stage. Zinida seems to wither and grow +dim, as a light being extinguished. Her smile fades, her eyes and face +grow pale. Briquet anxiously bends over her._] + +BRIQUET + +[_In a slow voice_]: A chair! [_Zinida sits. Her head drops on her +shoulder, her arms fall, she begins to shiver and tremble. Some one +calls, "Cognac"--an actor runs to get it._] + +BRIQUET + +[_Helpless_]: What is the matter, Zinida darling? + +MANCINI + +[_Running about_]: She must quiet down. Get out, get out--vagabonds! +I'll fix everything, Papa Briquet. The wrap--where's the wrap? She's +cold. [_A clown hands it to him; they cover her._] + +TILLY + +[_Timidly_]: Wouldn't you like some moosic? + +MANCINI + +[_Giving her some cognac_]: Drink, Duchess, drink! Drink it all--that's +it. [ZINIDA _drinks it like water, evidently not noticing the taste. She +shivers. The clowns disappear one by one._ CONSUELO, _with a sudden +flexible movement, falls on her knees before_ ZINIDA _and kisses her +hands, warming them between her own_.] + +CONSUELO + +Dear, dear, you are cold! Poor little hands, dear good one, beloved +one---- + +ZINIDA + +[_Pushes her away, gently_]: Ho--home. It will soon be over. It's +nothing ... I am ver--very ... home.... You stay here, Briquet--you +must. I'm all right. + +CONSUELO + +You are cold? Here is my shawl. + +ZINIDA + +No--let me.... [CONSUELO _gets up, and moves aside._] + +BRIQUET + +And it's all because of your books, Zinida--your mythology. Now tell me, +why do you want those beasts to love you? Beasts! Do you understand, HE? +You too, you're from that world. She'll listen more to you. Explain it +to her. Whom can those beasts love? Those hairy monsters, with diabolic +eyes? + +HE + +[_Genially_]: I believe--only their equals. You are right, Papa +Briquet--there must be the same race. + +BRIQUET + +Of course, and this is all nonsense--literature. Explain it to her, HE. + +HE + +[_Takes on a meditative air_]: Yes, you are right, Briquet. + +BRIQUET + +You see, dear, silly woman--everybody agrees.... + +MANCINI + +Oh! Briquet, you make me sick; you are an absolute despot, an Asiatic. + +ZINIDA + +[_With the shadow of a smile, gives her hand to be kissed_]: Calm +yourself, Louis. It is over--I am going home. [_She stands up, shaking, +still chilled._] + +BRIQUET + +But how? alone, dear? + +MANCINI + +What! fool! Did you imagine that Count Mancini would leave a woman when +she needed help? I shall take her home--let your brutal heart be at +rest--I shall take her home. Thomas, run for an automobile. Don't push +me Briquet, you are as awkward as a unicorn ... that's the way, that's +the way---- [_They are holding her, guiding her slowly toward the door_]. +CONSUELO, _her chin resting in her hand, is following them with her +eyes. Unconsciously she assumes a somewhat affected pose._] + +MANCINI + +I'll come back for you, child---- [_Only_ HE _and_ CONSUELO _are left on +the stage. In the ring, music, shrieks, and laughter begin again._] + +HE + +Consuelo---- + +CONSUELO + +Is that you, HE, dear? + +HE + +Where did you learn that pose? I have seen it only in marble. You look +like Psyche. + +CONSUELO + +I don't know, HE. [_She sighs and sits on the sofa, keeping in her pose +the same artificiality and beauty._] It's all so sad here, to-day. HE, +are you sorry for ZINIDA? + +HE + +What did she do? + +CONSUELO + +I didn't see. I had closed my eyes, and didn't open them. Alfred says +she is a wicked woman, but that isn't true. She has such nice eyes, and +what tiny cold hands--as if she were dead. What does she do it for? +Alfred says she should be audacious, beautiful, but quiet, otherwise +what she does is only disgusting. It isn't true, is it, HE? + +HE + +She loves Alfred. + +CONSUELO + +Alfred? My Bezano? [_Shrugging her shoulders, and surprised_] How does +she love him? The same as everyone loves? + +HE + +Yes--as everyone loves--or still more. + +CONSUELO + +Bezano? Bezano? No--it's nonsense. [_Pause; silence._] What a beautiful +costume you have, HE. You invented it yourself? + +HE + +Jim helped me. + +CONSUELO + +Jim is so nice! All clowns are nice. + +HE + +I am wicked. + +CONSUELO + +[_Laughs_]: You? You are the nicest of all. Oh, goodness! Three acts +more! This is the second on now. Alfred and I are in the third. Are you +coming to see me? + +HE + +I always do. How beautiful you are, Consuelo. + +CONSUELO + +Like Eve? [_Smiles._] + +HE + +Yes, Consuelo. And if the Baron asks you to be his wife, will you +accept? + +CONSUELO + +Certainly, HE. That's all Father and I are waiting for. Father told me +yesterday that the Baron will not hesitate very long. Of course I do not +love him. But I will be his honest, faithful wife. Father wants to teach +me to play the piano. + +HE + +Are those your own words--"his honest, faithful wife"? + +CONSUELO + +Certainly they are mine. Whose could they be? He loves me so much, the +poor thing. Dear HE, what does "love" mean? Everybody speaks of +love--love--Zinida, too! Poor Zinida! What a boring evening this has +been! HE, did you paint the laughter on your face yourself? + +HE + +My own self, dear little Consuelo---- + +CONSUELO + +How do you do it, all of you? I tried once, but couldn't do a thing. Why +are there no women clowns? Why are you so silent, HE? You, too, are sad, +to-night. + +HE + +No, I am happy to-night. Give me your hand, Consuelo, I want to see what +it says. + +CONSUELO + +Do you know how? What a talented man you are! Read it, but don't _lie_, +like a gypsy. [_He goes down on one knee and takes her hand. Both bend +over it._] Am I lucky? + +HE + +Yes, lucky. But wait a minute--this line here--funny. Ah, Consuelo, what +does it say, here! [_Acting_] I tremble, my eyes do not dare to read the +strange, fatal signs. Consuelo-- + +CONSUELO + +The stars are talking. + +HE + +Yes, the stars are talking. Their voices are distant and terrible; their +rays are pale, and their shadows slip by, like the ghosts of dead +virgins--their spell is upon thee, Consuelo, beautiful Consuelo. Thou +standest at the door of Eternity. + +CONSUELO + +I don't understand. Does it mean that I will live long? + +HE + +This line--how far it goes. Strange! Thou wilt live eternally, Consuelo. + +CONSUELO + +You see, HE, you did tell me a lie, just like a gypsy! + +HE + +But it is written--here, silly--and here. Now think of what the stars +are saying. Here you have eternal life, love, and glory; and here, +listen to what Jupiter says. He says: "Goddess, thou must not belong to +any one born on earth," and if you marry the Baron--you'll perish, +you'll die, Consuelo. [_Consuelo laughs._] + +CONSUELO + +Will he eat me? + +HE + +No. But you will die before he has time to eat you. + +CONSUELO + +And what will become of Father? Is there nothing about him here? +[_Laughing, she softly sings the melody of the waltz, which is playing +in the distance._] + +HE + +Don't laugh, Consuelo, at the voice of the stars. They are far away, +their rays are light and pale, and we can barely see their sleeping +shadows, but their sorcery is stern and dark. You stand at the gates of +eternity. Your die is cast; you are _doomed_--and your Alfred, whom you +love in your heart, even though your mind is not aware of it, your +Alfred cannot save you. He, too, is a stranger on this earth. He is +submerged in a deep sleep. He, too, is a little god who has lost +himself, and Consuelo, never, never will he find his way to Heaven +again. Forget Bezano---- + +CONSUELO + +I don't understand a word. Do the gods really exist? My teacher told me +about them. But I thought it was all tales! [_Laughs._] And my Bezano +is a god? + +HE + +Forget Bezano! Consuelo, do you know who can save you? The only one who +can save you? I. + +CONSUELO + +[_Laughing_]: You, HE? + +HE + +Yes, but don't laugh! Look. Here is the letter H. It is I, HE. + +CONSUELO + +HE Who Gets Slapped? Is that written here, too? + +HE + +That, too. The stars know everything. But look here, what more is +written about him. Consuelo, welcome him. HE is an old god in disguise, +who came down to earth only to love you, foolish little Consuelo. + +CONSUELO + +[_Laughing and singing_]: Some god! + +HE + +Don't mock! The gods don't like such, empty laughter from beautiful +lips. The gods grow lonely and die, when they are not recognized. Oh, +Consuelo! Oh, great joy and love! Do recognize this god, and accept him. +Think a moment, one day a god suddenly went crazy! + +CONSUELO + +Gods go crazy, too? + +HE + +Yes, when they are half man, then they often go mad. Suddenly he saw his +own sublimity, and shuddered with horror, with infinite solitude, with +super-human anguish. It is terrible, when anguish touches the divine +soul! + +CONSUELO + +I don't like it. What language are you speaking? I don't understand---- + +HE + +I speak the language of thy awakening. Consuelo, recognize and accept +thy god, who was thrown down from the summit like a stone. Accept the +god who fell to the earth in order to live, to play, and to be +infinitely drunk with joy. Evoë Goddess! + +CONSUELO + +[_Tortured_]: HE---- I cannot understand. Let my hand alone. + +HE + +[_Stands up_]: Sleep. Then wake again, Consuelo! And when thou +wakest--remember that hour when, covered with snow-white sea-foam, thou +didst emerge from the sky-blue waters. Remember heaven, and the slow +eastern wind, and the whisper of the foam at thy marble feet. + +CONSUELO + +[_Her eyes are closed_]: I believe--wait--I remember. Remind me +further---- + + [HE _is bowed over_ CONSUELO, _with lifted arms; he speaks slowly, + but in a commanding voice, as if conjuring_.] + +HE + +You see the waves playing. Remember the song of the sirens, their +sorrowless song of joy. Their white bodies, shining blue through the +blue waters. Or can you hear the sun, singing? Like the strings of a +divine harp, spread the golden rays---- Do you not see the hand +of God, which gives harmony, light, and love to the world? Do not the +mountains, in the blue cloud of incense, sing their hymn of glory? +Remember, O Consuelo, remember the prayer of the mountains, the prayer +of the sea. [_Silence._] + +HE + +[_Commandingly_]: Remember--Consuelo! + +CONSUELO + +[_Opening her eyes_]: No! HE, I was feeling so happy, and suddenly I +forgot it all. Yet something of it all is still in my heart. Help me +again, HE, remind me. It hurts, I hear so many voices. They all sing +"Consuelo--Consuelo." What comes after? [_Silence; pause._] What comes +after? It hurts. Remind me, HE. [_Silence--in the ring, the music +suddenly bursts forth in a tempestuous circus gallop. Silence._] HE, +[_opens her eyes and smiles_] that's Alfred galloping. Do you recognize +his music? + +HE + +[_With rage_]: Leave the boy alone! [_Suddenly falls on his knees +before_ CONSUELO.] _I love you, Consuelo_, revelation of my heart, light +of my nights, I love you, Consuelo. [_Looks at her in ecstasy and +tears--and gets a slap; starting back._] What's this? + +CONSUELO + +A slap! You forget who you are. [_Stands up, with anger in her eyes._] +You are HE Who Gets Slapped! Did you forget it? Some god! With such a +face--slapped face! Was it with slaps they threw you down from heaven, +god? + +HE + +Wait! Don't stand up! I--did not finish the play! + +CONSUELO + +[_Sits_]: Then you were playing? + +HE + +Wait! One minute. + +CONSUELO + +You lied to me. Why did you play so that I believed you? + +HE + +I am HE Who Gets Slapped! + +CONSUELO + +You are not angry because I struck you? I did not want to really, but +you were so--disgusting. And now you are so funny again. You have great +talent, HE--or are you drunk? + +HE + +Strike me again. + +CONSUELO + +No. + +HE + +I need it for my play. Strike! + +CONSUELO + +[_Laughs, and touches his cheek with her fingertips_]: Here, then! + +HE + +Didn't you understand that you are a queen, and I a fool who is in love +with his queen? Don't you know, Consuelo, that every queen has a fool, +and he is always in love with her, and they always beat him for it. HE +Who Gets Slapped. + +CONSUELO + +No. I didn't know. + +HE + +Yes, every queen. Beauty has her fool. Wisdom, too. Oh, how many fools +she has! Her court is overcrowded with enamoured fools, and the sound of +slaps does not cease, even through the night. But I never received such +a sweet slap as the one given by my little queen. [_Someone appears at +the door._ HE _notices it, and continues to play, making many faces_.] +Clown HE can have no rival! Who is there who could stand such a deluge +of slaps, such a hail-storm of slaps, and not get soaked? [_Feigns to +cry aloud._] "Have pity on me. I am but a poor fool!" + + [_Enter two men: an actor, dressed as a bareback rider, and a + gentleman from the audience. He is spare, dressed in black, very + respectable. He carries his hat in his hand._] + +CONSUELO + +[_Laughing, embarrassed_]: HE, there is someone here. Stop! + +HE + +[_Gets up_]: Who is it? Who dares to intrude in the castle of my queen? + +[_HE stops, suddenly. Consuelo, laughing, jumps up and runs away, after +a quick glance at the gentleman._] + +CONSUELO + +You cheered me up, HE. Good-bye. [_At the door_] You shall get a note +to-morrow. + +THE BAREBACK RIDER + +[_Laughing_]: A jolly fellow, sir. You wanted to see him? There he is. +HE, the gentleman wants to see you. + +HE + +[_In a depressed voice_]: What can I do for you? + + [_The actor bows, and goes away, smiling. Both men take a step + toward each other._] + +GENTLEMAN + +Is this you? + +HE + +Yes! It is I. And you? [_Silence._] + +GENTLEMAN + +Must I believe my eyes? Is this _you_, Mr.---- + +HE + +[_In a rage_]: My name here is HE. I have no other name, do you hear? HE +Who Gets Slapped. And if you want to stay here, don't forget it. + +GENTLEMAN + +You are so familiar. As far as I can remember---- + +HE + +We are all familiar, here. [_Contemptuously_] Besides, that's all you +deserve, anywhere. + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Humbly_]: You have not forgiven me, HE? [_Silence._] + +HE + +Are you here with my wife? Is she, too, in the circus? + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Quickly_]: Oh, no! I am alone. She stayed there! + +HE + +You've left her already? + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Humbly_]: No--we have--a son. After your sudden and mysterious +disappearance--when you left that strange and insulting letter---- + +HE + +[_Laughs_]: Insulting? You are still able to feel insults? What are you +doing here? Were you looking for me, or is it an accident? + +GENTLEMAN + +I have been looking for you, for half a year--through many countries. +And suddenly, to-day--by accident, indeed--I had no acquaintances here, +and I went to the circus. We must talk things over ... HE, I implore +you. [_Silence._] + +HE + +Here is a shadow I cannot lose! To talk things over! Do you really think +we still have something to talk over? All right. Leave your address with +the porter, and I will let you know when you can see me. Now get out. +[_Proudly._] I am busy. + + [_The gentleman bows and leaves. HE does not return his bow, but + stands with outstretched hand, in the pose of a great man, who + shows a boring visitor the door._] + +CURTAIN + + + + +ACT III + + +_The same room. Morning, before the rehearsal. HE is striding +thoughtfully up and down the room. He wears a broad, parti-coloured +coat, and a prismatic tie. His derby is on the back of his head, and his +face is clean-shaven like that of an actor. His eyebrows are drawn, lips +pressed together energetically, his whole appearance severe and sombre. +After the entrance of the gentleman he changes. His face becomes +clown-like, mobile--a living mask._ + +_The gentleman comes in. He is dressed in black, and has an extremely +well-bred appearance. His thin face is yellowish, like an invalid's. +When he is upset, his colourless, dull eyes often twitch. HE does not +notice him._ + +GENTLEMAN + +Good morning, sir. + +HE + +[_Turning around and looking at him absent-mindedly_]: Ah! It's you. + +GENTLEMAN + +I am not late? You look as if you did not expect me. I hope I am not +disturbing you? You fixed this time yourself however, and I took the +liberty---- + +HE + +No manners, please. What do you want? Tell me quickly, I have no time. + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Looking around with distaste_]: I expected you would invite me to some +other place ... to your home. + +HE + +I have no other home. This is my home. + +GENTLEMAN + +But people may disturb us here. + +HE + +So much the worse for you. Talk faster! [_Silence._] + +GENTLEMAN + +Will you allow me to sit down? + +HE + +Sit down. Look out! That chair is broken. + + [_The gentleman, afraid, pushes away the chair and looks helplessly + around. Everything here seems to him dangerous and strange. He + chooses an apparently solid little gilded divan, and sits down; + puts his silk hat aside, slowly takes off his gloves, which stick + to his fingers. HE observes him indifferently._] + +GENTLEMAN + +In this suit, and with this face, you make a still stranger impression. +Yesterday it seemed to me that it was all a dream; to-day ... _you_ ... + +HE + +You have forgotten my name again? My name is HE. + +GENTLEMAN + +You are determined to continue talking to me like this? + +HE + +Decidedly! But you are squandering your time like a millionaire. Hurry +up! + +GENTLEMAN + +I really don't know.... Everything here strikes me so.... These posters, +horses, animals, which I passed when I was looking for you.... And +finally, _you_, a clown in a circus! [_With a slight, deprecating +smile._] Could I expect it? It is true, when everybody there decided +that you were dead, I was the only man who did not agree with them. I +felt that you were still alive. But to find you among such +surroundings--I can't understand it. + +HE + +You said you have a son, now. Doesn't he look like me? + +GENTLEMAN + +I don't understand? + +HE + +Don't you know that widows or divorced women often have children by the +new husband, which resemble the old one? This misfortune did not befall +you? [_Laughs._] And your book, too, is a big success, I hear. + +GENTLEMAN + +You want to insult me again? + +HE + +[_Laughing_]: What a restless, touchy faker you are! Please sit still; +be quiet. It is the custom here to speak this way. Why were you trying +to find me? + +GENTLEMAN + +My conscience.... + +HE + +You have no conscience. Or were you afraid that you hadn't robbed me of +_everything_ I possessed, and you came for the rest? But what more could +you take from me now? My fool's cap with its bells? You wouldn't take +it. It's too big for your bald head! Crawl back, you book-worm! + +GENTLEMAN + +You cannot forgive the fact that your wife.... + +HE + +To the devil with my wife! [_The gentleman is startled and raises his +eyebrows. HE laughs._] + +GENTLEMAN + +I don't know.... But such language! I confess I find difficulty in +expressing my thoughts in such an atmosphere, but if you are so ... +indifferent to your wife, who, I shall allow myself to emphasize the +fact, loved you and thought you were a saint---- [_HE laughs._] +Then _what_ brought you to such a ... step? Or is it that you cannot +forgive me my success? A success, it is true, not entirely deserved. And +now you want to take vengeance, with your humbleness, on those who +misunderstood you. But you always were so indifferent to glory. Or your +indifference was only hypocrisy. And when I, a more lucky rival ... + +HE + +[_With a burst of laughter_]: Rival! You--a rival! + +GENTLEMAN + +[Growing Pale]: But my book! + +HE + +You are talking to me about _your_ book? To me? [_The gentleman is very +pale. HE looks at him with curiosity and mockery._] + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Raising his eyes_]: I am a very unhappy man. + +HE + +Why? + +GENTLEMAN + +I am a very unhappy man. You must forgive me. I am deeply, irreparably, +and infinitely unhappy. + +HE + +But why? Explain it to me. [_Starts walking up and down._] You say +yourself that your book is a tremendous success, you are famous, you +have glory; there is not a yellow newspaper in which _you_ and _your_ +thoughts are not mentioned. Who knows _me_? Who cares about my heavy +abstractions, from which it was difficult for them to derive a single +thought? You--you are the great vulgarizer! You have made my thoughts +comprehensible even to horses! With the art of a great vulgarizer, a +tailor of ideas, you dressed my Apollo in a barber's jacket, you handed +my Venus a yellow ticket, and to my bright hero you gave the ears of an +ass. And then your career is made, as Jackson says. And wherever I go, +the whole street looks at me with thousands of faces, in which--what +mockery--I recognize the traits of my own children. Oh! How ugly your +son must be, if he resembles me! Why then are you unhappy, you poor +devil? [_The gentleman bows his head, plucking at his gloves._] The +police haven't caught you, as yet. What am I talking about? Is it +possible to catch you? You always keep within the limits of the law. You +have been torturing yourself up to now because you are not married to my +wife. A notary public is always present at your thefts. What is the use +of this self-torture, my friend? Get married. I died. You are not +satisfied with having taken only my wife? Let my glory remain in your +possession. It is yours. Accept my ideas. Assume all the rights, my most +lawful heir! I died! And when I was dying [_making a stupidly pious +face_] I forgave thee! [_Bursts out laughing. The gentleman raises his +head, and bending forward, looks straight into HE's eyes._] + +GENTLEMAN + +And my pride? + +HE + +Have you any pride? [_The gentleman straightens up, and nods his head +silently._] Yes! But please stand off a little. I don't like to look at +you. Think of it. There was a time when I loved you a little, even +thought you a little gifted! You--my empty shadow. + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Nodding his head_]: I am your shadow. [_HE keeps on walking, and looks +over his shoulder at the gentleman, with a smile._] + +HE + +Oh, you are marvellous! What a comedy! What a touching comedy! Listen. +Tell me frankly if you can; do you hate me very much? + +GENTLEMAN + +Yes! With all the hate there is in the world! Sit down here. + +HE + +You order me? + +GENTLEMAN + +Sit down here. Thank you. [_Bows._] I am respected and I am famous, yes? +I have a wife and a son, yes. [_Laughs slowly._] My wife still loves +you: our favourite discussion is about your genius. She supposes you are +a genius. We, I and she, love you even when we are in bed. Tss! It is I +who must make faces. My son--yes, he'll resemble you. And when, in order +to have a little rest, I go to my desk, to my ink-pot, my books--there, +too, I find you. Always you! Everywhere you! And I am never alone--never +myself and alone. And when at night--you, sir, should understand +this--when at night I go to my lonely thoughts, to my sleepless +contemplations, even then I find your image in my head, in my +unfortunate brain, your damned and hateful image! [_Silence. The +gentleman's eyes twitch._] + +HE + +[_Speaking slowly_]: What a comedy. How marvellously everything is +turned about in this world: the robbed proves to be a robber, and the +robber is complaining of theft, and cursing! [_Laughs._] Listen, I was +mistaken. You are not my shadow. You are the crowd. If you live by my +creations, you hate me; if you breathe my breath, you are choking with +anger. And choking with anger, hating me, you still walk slowly on the +trail of my ideas. But you are advancing backward, advancing backward, +comrade! Oh, what a marvellous comedy! [_Walking and smiling._] Tell me, +would you be relieved if I really had died? + +GENTLEMAN + +Yes! I think so. Death augments distance and dulls the memory. Death +reconciles. But you do not look like a man who---- + +HE + +Yes, yes! Death, _certainly_! + +GENTLEMAN + +Sit down here. + +HE + +Your obedient servant. Yes? + +GENTLEMAN + +Certainly, I do not dare to ask you--[_makes a grimace_] to ask you to +die, but tell me: you'll never come back there? No, don't laugh. If you +want me to, I'll kiss your hand. Don't grimace! I would have done so if +you had died. + +HE + +[_Slowly_]: Get out, vermin! + + [_Enter Tilly and Polly as in the first act, playing. For a long + time they do not see the two men._] + +HE + +Jack! + +TILLY + +Ah! Good morning, HE. We are rehearsing. You know it is very hard. Jack +has just about as much music in his head as my pig. + +HE + +[_Introducing, nonchalantly_]: My friend.... For the benefit +performance? [_The clowns bow to the gentleman, making idiotic faces._] + +POLLY + +Yes. What are you preparing? You are cunning, HE! Consuelo told me what +you are preparing for the benefit performance. She leaves us soon, you +know? + +HE + +Is that so? + +TILLY + +Zinida told us. Do you think she would get a benefit performance +otherwise? She is a nice girl. + +POLLY + +[_Taking his small flute-pipe_]: Here! Don't walk as if you were an +elephant. Don't forget you are an ant! Come on! [_They go off, +playing._] + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Smiling_]: These are your new comrades? How strange they are! + +HE + +Everything here is strange. + +GENTLEMAN + +This suit of yours. Black used to be very becoming to you. This one +hurts the eyes. + +HE + +[_Looking himself over_]: Why? It looks very nice. The rehearsal has +begun. You must go away. You are disturbing us. + +GENTLEMAN + +You did not answer my question. + + [_Slow strains of the Tango from a small orchestra in the ring._] + +HE + +[_Listening absent-mindedly to the music_]: What question? + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Who does not hear the music_]: I pray you to tell me: will you ever +come back? + +HE + +[_Listening to the music_]: Never, never, never! + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Getting up_]: Thank you. I am going. + +HE + +Never, never, never! Yes, run along. And don't come back. There you were +still bearable and useful for something, but here you are superfluous. + +GENTLEMAN + +But if something should happen to you ... you are a healthy man, but in +this environment, these people ... how will I know? They don't know your +name here? + +HE + +My name here is unknown, but _you will know_. Anything else? + +GENTLEMAN + +I can be at peace? On your word of honour? Of course I mean, +comparatively, at peace? + +HE + +Yes, you may be comparatively at peace. Never! [_They walk to the door, +the gentleman stops._] + +GENTLEMAN + +May I come to the circus? You will allow me? + +HE + +Certainly. You are the audience! [_Laughs._] But I shan't give you my +card for a pass. But why do you want to come? Or do you like the circus +so much, and since when? + +GENTLEMAN + +I want to look at you some more, and to understand, perhaps. Such a +transformation! Knowing you as I do, I cannot admit that you are here +without any _idea_. But what idea? [_Looks short-sightedly at HE. HE +grimaces and thumbs his nose._] + +GENTLEMAN + +What is that? + +HE + +_My idea!_ Good-bye, Prince! My regards to your respected wife, your +Highness' wonderful son! [_Enter_ MANCINI.] + +MANCINI + +You positively live in the circus, HE. Whenever I come, you are here. +You are a fanatic in your work, sir. + +HE + +[_Introducing_]: Prince Poniatovsky, Count Mancini. + +MANCINI + +[_Drawing himself up_]: Very, very glad. And you too, Prince, you know +my queer fellow? What a nice face he has, hasn't he? [_He touches HE'S +shoulder patronizingly, with the tip of his cane._] + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Awkwardly_]: Yes, I have the pleasure ... certainly. Good-bye, Count. + +MANCINI + +Good-day, Prince. + +HE + +[_Accompanying him_]: Look out, your Highness, for the dark passages: +the steps are so rotten. Unfortunately I cannot usher you out to the +street. + +GENTLEMAN + +[_In a low voice_]: You will not give me your hand when we say good-bye? +We are parting for ever. + +HE + +Unnecessary, Prince. I shall still hope to meet you in the Kingdom of +Heaven. I trust you will be there, too? + +GENTLEMAN + +[_With disgust_]: How you did succeed! You have so much of the clown in +you! + +HE + +I am HE Who is Getting Slapped. Good-bye, Prince. [_They take another +step._] + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Looking HE in the eyes; in a very low voice_]: Tell me, you are not +mad? + +HE + +[_Just at low, his eyes wide open_]: I am afraid, I am afraid you are +right, Prince. [_Still low_] Ass! Never in your life did you use such a +precise expression. I am mad! + + [_Playing the clown again, he shows him to the stair, with a big, + affected gesture, a sweep of the hand and arm from his head to the + floor, the fingers moving, to represent the steps._] + +HE + +[_Laughing_]: He is down! _Au revoir_, Prince. [_The gentleman goes out. +HE comes skipping back, and takes a pose._] Mancini! Let us dance the +Tango! Mancini, I adore you! + +MANCINI + +[_Sitting back comfortably and playing with his cane_]: Don't forget +yourself, HE. But you're hiding something, my boy. I always said you +used to belong to society. It is so easy to talk to you. And who is this +Prince? A genuine one? + +HE + +Genuine. A first-rater. Like you! + +MANCINI + +A sympathetic face. Although at first I thought he was an undertaker who +came for an order. Ah, HE! When shall I finally depart from these dirty +walls, from Papa Briquet, stupid posters, and brutal jockeys! + +HE + +Very soon, Mancini. + +MANCINI + +Yes, soon. I am simply exhausted in these surroundings, HE! I begin to +feel myself a horse. You are from society, still you don't yet know what +high society means. To be at last decently dressed, to attend +receptions, to display the splendour of wit; from time to time to have a +game of baccarat [_laughing_] without tricks or cheating---- + +HE + +And when evening comes, go to a suburb, where you are considered an +honest father, who loves his children and---- + +MANCINI + +And get hold of something, eh? [_Laughs._] I shall wear a silk mask and +two butlers shall follow me, thus protecting me from the dirty crowd. +Ah, HE! The blood of my ancestors boils in me. Look at this stiletto. +What do you think? Do you think that it was ever stained with blood? + +HE + +You frighten me, Count! + +MANCINI + +[_Laughing, and putting the stiletto back into its sheath_]: Fool! + +HE + +And what about the girl? + +MANCINI + +Tss! I give those bourgeois absolute satisfaction, and they glorify my +name. [_Laughs._] The splendour of my name is beginning to shine with a +force unknown. By the way, do you know what automobile firms are the +best? Money is no object. [_Laughs._] Ah! Papa Briquet! + + [_Enter Briquet in his overcoat and silk hat. They shake hands._] + +BRIQUET + +So, Mancini, you have obtained a benefit performance for your daughter, +Consuelo! I only want to tell you, that if it were not for Zinida.... + +MANCINI + +Listen, Briquet. Decidedly you are a donkey. What are you complaining +of? The Baron has bought all the parquet seats for Consuelo's benefit +performance. Isn't that enough for you, you miser? + +BRIQUET + +I love your daughter, Mancini, and I am sorry to let her go. What more +does she need here? She has an honest job, wonderful comrades, and the +atmosphere--? + +MANCINI + +Not _she_, but _I_ need something. You understand? [_Laughs._] I asked +you to increase her salary, Harpagon! and now, Mr. Manager, wouldn't you +like to change me a thousand franc note? + +BRIQUET + +[_With a sigh_]: Give it to me. + +MANCINI + +[_Nonchalantly_]: To-morrow. I left it at home. [_All three laugh._] +Laugh, laugh! To-day we are going with the Baron to his villa in the +country; people say a very nice villa. + +HE + +What for? + +MANCINI + +You know, HE, the crazes of these billionaires. He wants to show +Consuelo some winter roses, and me his wine cellars. He will come for us +here. What is the matter, my little Consuelo? + + [_Enter_ CONSUELO, _almost crying_.] + +CONSUELO + +I can't father! Tell him! What right has he to yell at me? He almost hit +me with his whip! + +MANCINI + +[_Straightening up_]: Briquet! I beg of you, as the Manager, what is +this--a stable? To hit my daughter with a whip! I'll show this cub ... a +mere jockey.... No, the devil knows what it is, devil knows, I swear.... + +CONSUELO + +Father.... + +BRIQUET + +I will tell him. + +CONSUELO + +Please don't. Alfred didn't hit me. It's a silly thing, what I told you. +What an idea! He is so sorry himself.... + +BRIQUET + +I shall tell him anyhow that---- + +CONSUELO + +Don't you dare. You mustn't tell him anything. He didn't do a thing. + +MANCINI + +[_Still excited_]: He must beg her pardon, the brat. + +CONSUELO + +He's already asked me to forgive him. How silly you all are! I simply +cannot work to-day and I got nervous. What nonsense! The silly boy asked +me to forgive him, but I didn't want to. HE, dear, good morning! I +didn't notice you. How becoming your tie is! Where are you going, +Briquet? To Alfred? + +BRIQUET + +No, I am going home, dear child. Zinida asked me to give you her love. +She will not be here to-day, either. [_He goes out._] + +CONSUELO + +Zinida is so nice, so good. Father, why is it that everybody seems so +nice to me? Probably because I am going away soon. HE, did you hear the +march that Tilly and Polly will play? [_Laughs._] Such a cheerful one. + +HE + +Yes. I heard it. Your benefit performance will be remarkable. + +CONSUELO + +I think so, too. Father I am hungry. Have them bring me a sandwich. + +HE + +I'll run for it, my Queen. + +CONSUELO + +Please do, HE. [_Loudly_] But not cheese. I don't like it. + + [MANCINI _and_ CONSUELO _are alone_. MANCINI, _lying back + comfortably in an armchair, scrutinizes his daughter with a + searching eye_.] + +MANCINI + +I find something particular in you to-day, my child. I don't know +whether it is something better or worse. You cried? + +CONSUELO + +Yes, a little. Oh, I am so hungry. + +MANCINI + +But you had your breakfast? + +CONSUELO + +No, I didn't. That's why I am so hungry. You again forgot to leave me +some money this morning, and without money.... + +MANCINI + +Oh, the devil ... what a memory I have. [_Laughs._] But we shall have a +very nice meal to-day. Don't eat very many sandwiches.... Yes, +positively I like you. You must cry more often, my child; it washes off +your superfluous simplicity. You become more of a woman. + +CONSUELO + +Am I so simple, Father? + +MANCINI + +Very.... Too much. I like it in others, but not in you. Besides, the +Baron.... + +CONSUELO + +Nonsense. I am not simple. But you know, Bezano scolded me so much, that +even you would have cried. The devil knows.... + +MANCINI + +Tsss.... Never say "the devil knows." It isn't decent. + +CONSUELO + +I say it only when I am with you. + +MANCINI + +You must not say it when you are with me, either. I know it without you. +[_Laughs._] + +CONSUELO + +Ha! Listen, Father! It's a new number of Alfred's. He makes such a jump! +Jim says he's bound to break his neck. Poor fish.... + +MANCINI + +[_Indifferently_]: Or his leg, or his back; they all have to break +something. [_Laughs._] They are breakable toys. + +CONSUELO + +[_Listening to the music_]: I'll be lonesome without them, Father! The +Baron promised to make a ring for me to gallop over as much as I want. +He's not lying? + +MANCINI + +A ring? [_Laughs._] No, it's not a lie. By the way, child, when speaking +of Barons, you must say, "he does not tell the truth," and not, "he +lies." + +CONSUELO + +It's just the same. It's nice to be wealthy, Father; you can do what you +want, then. + +MANCINI + +[_With enthusiasm_]: Everything you want. Everything, my child. Ah! Our +fate is being decided to-day. Pray our clement God, Consuelo. The Baron +is hanging on a thread. + +CONSUELO + +[_Indifferently_]: Yes? + +MANCINI + +[_Making the gesture with his fingers_]: On a very thin, silk thread. I +am almost sure that he will make his proposal to-day. [_Laughs._] Winter +roses, and the web of a spider amongst the roses, in order that my dear +little fly.... He is such a spider. + +CONSUELO + +[_Indifferently_]: Yes, a terrible spider. Father, oughtn't I to let him +kiss my hand yet? + +MANCINI + +By no means. You don't know yet, darling, what these men are. + +CONSUELO + +Alfred never kisses. + +MANCINI + +Alfred! Your Alfred is a cub, and he mustn't dare. But with men of that +sort, you must be extremely careful, my child. To-day he would kiss your +little finger, to-morrow your hand, and after to-morrow you would be on +his lap. + +CONSUELO + +Foui! Father, what are you talking about? You should be ashamed! + +MANCINI + +But I know.... + +CONSUELO + +Don't you dare! I don't want to hear such dirty things. I shall give the +Baron such a slap! A better one than HE--let him only try. + +MANCINI + +[_With a deprecating gesture_]: All men are like that, child. + +CONSUELO + +It isn't true. Alfred is not. Ah! But where is HE? He said he'd run, and +he hasn't come back. + +MANCINI + +The buffet here is closed, and he has to get the sandwiches somewhere +else. Consuelo, as your father, I want to warn you about HE. Don't trust +him. He knows something. [_Twirls his finger close to his forehead._] +His game is not fair. + +CONSUELO + +You say it about everybody. I know HE; he is such a nice man, and he +loves me so much. + +MANCINI + +Believe me, there is something in it. + +CONSUELO + +Father, you make me sick with your advice. Ah! HE, thank you. + +[_HE, breathing somewhat heavily, enters and gives her the sandwiches._] + +HE + +Eat, Consuelo. + +CONSUELO + +A hot one.... But you were running, HE? I am so grateful. [_Eats._] HE, +do you love me? + +HE + +I do, my Queen. I am your court fool. + +CONSUELO + +[_Eating_]: And when I leave, will you find another queen? + +HE + +[_Making a ceremonious bow_]: I shall follow after you, my incomparable +one. I shall carry the train of your dress and wipe away my tears with +it. [_Pretends to cry._] + +MANCINI + +Idiot! [_Laughs._] How sorry I am, HE, that those wonderful times have +passed, when, in the court of the Counts Mancini, there were scores of +motley fools who were given gold and kicks.... Now, Mancini is compelled +to go to this dirty circus in order to see a good fool; and still, whose +fool is he? Mine? No. He belongs to everybody who pays a franc. We shall +very soon be unable to breathe because of Democracy. Democracy, too, +needs fools! Think of it, HE; what an unexampled impertinence. + +HE + +We are the servants of those who pay. But how can we help it, Count? + +MANCINI + +But is that not sad? Imagine: we are in my castle. I, near the fireplace +with my glass of wine, you, at my feet chatting your nonsense, jingling +your little bells--diverting me. Sometimes you pinch me too with your +jokes: it is allowed by the traditions and necessary for the circulation +of the blood. After a while--I am sick of you, I want another one.... +Then I give you a kick and.... Ah, HE, how wonderful it would be! + +HE + +It would be marvellous, Mancini! + +MANCINI + +Yes. Certainly! You would be getting gold coins, those wonderfully +little yellow things.... Well, when I become rich, I shall take you. +That's settled. + +CONSUELO + +Take him, Father.... + +HE + +And when the count, tired of my chattering, will give me a kick with his +Highness's foot, then I shall lie down at the little feet of my queen, +and shall.... + +CONSUELO + +[_Laughing_]: Wait for another kick? I'm finished. Father, give me your +handkerchief, I want to wipe my hands. You have another one in your +pocket. Oh, my goodness, I must work some more! + +MANCINI + +[_Uneasy_]: But don't forget, my child! + +CONSUELO + +No, to-day I won't forget! Go on! + +MANCINI + +[_Looking at his watch_]: Yes, it is time.... He asked me to come over +when you were ready. You must change your dress before I come back. +[_Laughing._] _Signori, miei complimenti._ + + [_He goes out, playing with his cane._ CONSUELO _sits on the corner + of the divan, and covers herself with her shawl_.] + +CONSUELO + +Hello, HE! Come and lie down at my feet, and tell me something +cheerful.... You know, when you paint the laughter on your face, you are +very good looking, but now, too, you are very, very nice. Come on, HE, +why don't you lie down? + +HE + +Consuelo! Are you going to marry the Baron? + +CONSUELO + +[_Indifferently_]: It seems so. The Baron is hanging by a thread! HE, +there is one little sandwich left. Eat it. + +HE + +Thank you, my queen. [_Eats._] And do you remember my prediction? + +CONSUELO + +What prediction? How quickly you swallow! Does it taste good? + +HE + +Very good. That if you marry the Baron, you.... + +CONSUELO + +Oh, that's what you're talking about.... But you were making fun. + +HE + +Nobody can tell, my Queen. Sometimes one makes fun, and suddenly it +turns out to be true; the stars never talk in vain. If sometimes it is +difficult for a human being to open his mouth and to say a word, how +difficult it must be for a star. Think of it. + +CONSUELO + +[_Laughing_]: I should say. Such a mouth! [_Makes a tiny mouth._] + +HE + +No, my dear little girl, were I in your place, I would think it over. +And suppose suddenly you should die? Don't marry the Baron, Consuelo! + +CONSUELO + +[_Thinking_]: And what is--death? + +HE + +I do not know, my Queen. Nobody knows. Like love! Nobody knows. But your +little hands will become cold, and your dear little eyes will be closed. +You will be away from here. And the music will play without you, and +without you the crazy Bezano will be galloping, and Tilly and Polly will +be playing on their pipes without you: tilly-polly, tilly-polly ... +tilly-tilly, polly-polly.... + +CONSUELO + +Please don't, HE darling---- I am so sad, anyway ... tilly-tilly, +polly-polly ... [_Silence. HE looks at_ CONSUELO.] + +HE + +You were crying, my little Consuelo? + +CONSUELO + +Yes, a little. Alfred made me nervous. But tell me, is it my fault that +I can't do anything to-day? I tried to, but I couldn't. + +HE + +Why? + +CONSUELO + +Ah, I don't know. There is something here. [_Presses her hand against +her heart._] I don't know. HE, I must be sick. What is sickness? Does it +hurt very much? + +HE + +It is not sickness. It is the charm of the far off stars, Consuelo. It +is the voice of your fate, my little Queen. + +CONSUELO + +Don't talk nonsense, please. What should the stars care about me? I am +so small. Nonsense, HE! Tell me rather another tale which you know: +about the blue sea and those gods, you know ... who are so beautiful. +Did they all die? + +HE + +They are all alive, but they hide themselves, my goddess. + +CONSUELO + +In the woods or mountains? Can one come across them? Ah, imagine HE ... +I come across a god, and he suddenly takes a look at me! I'd run away. +[_Laughs._] This morning when I went without breakfast, I became so sad, +so disgusted, and I thought: if a god should come, and give me something +to eat! And as I thought it, I suddenly heard, honestly it's true, I +heard: "Consuelo, somebody's calling you." [_Angrily._] Don't you dare +laugh! + +HE + +Am I laughing? + +CONSUELO + +Honestly, it's true. Ah, HE, but he didn't come. He only called me and +disappeared, and how can you find him? It hurt me so much, and hurts +even now. Why did you remind me of my childhood? I'd forgotten it +entirely. There was the sea ... and something ... many, many [_closes +her eyes, smiling._] + +HE + +Remember, Consuelo. + +CONSUELO + +No. [_Opening her eyes_] I forget everything about it. [_Looks around +the room._] HE, do you see what a poster they made for my benefit +performance? It's Father's idea. The Baron liked it. [_HE laughs. +Silence._] + +HE + +[_Slowly_] Consuelo, my Queen! Don't go to the Baron to-day. + +CONSUELO + +Why? [_After a silence._] How fresh you are, HE. + +HE + +[_Lowering his head, slowly_]: I don't want it. + +CONSUELO + +[_Getting up_]: What? You don't want it? + +HE + +[_Bowing his head still lower_]: I do not want you to marry the Baron +[_Imploring._] I ... I shall not allow it ... I beg you! + +CONSUELO + +Whom, then, would you ask me to marry? You, perhaps, you fool? [_With a +rancorous laugh_] Are you crazy, my darling? "I shall not allow." HE! +HE will not allow me! But it is unbearable! What business is it of +yours? [_Walking up and down the room, looks over her shoulder at HE, +with anger._] Some fool clown, whom they can kick out of here any +minute. You make me sick with your stupid tales. Or you like slaps so +much. Fool, you couldn't invent anything better than a slap! + +HE + +[_Without lifting his head_]: Forgive me, my Queen. + +CONSUELO + +He is glad when they laugh at him. Some god! No, I shan't forgive. I +know you. [_Makes same gesture as_ MANCINI.] You have something there! +Laughs ... so nicely ... plays, plays, and then suddenly--hop! _Obey +him!_ No, darling, I am not that kind! Carry my train, that is your +business--fool! + +HE + +I shall carry your train, my Queen. Forgive me. Give me back the image +of my beautiful, piteous goddess. + +CONSUELO + +[_Quieting down_]: You're playing again? + +HE + +I am. + +CONSUELO + +[_Laughing_]: You see! [_Sits down._] Foolish HE. + +HE + +I see everything, my Queen. I see how beautiful you are, and how low +under your feet your poor court fool is lying. Somewhere in the abyss +his little bells are ringing. He kneels before you and prays; forgive +and pity him, my divine one. He was too impudent; he played so +cheerfully that he went too far and lost his tiny little mind, the last +bit of understanding he had saved up. Forgive me! + +CONSUELO + +All right. I forgive you. [_Laughs._] And now will you allow me to marry +the Baron? + +HE + +[_Also laughing_]: And nevertheless I will not allow it. But what does a +queen care about the permission of her enamoured fool? + +CONSUELO + +Get up. You are forgiven. And do you know why? You think because of your +words? You are a cunning beast, HE! No, because of the _sandwiches_. +That's why. You were so lovely, you panted so when you brought them. +Poor darling HE. From to-morrow you may be at my feet again. And as soon +as I whistle, "tuwhooo"---- + +HE + +I shall instantly lie down at thy feet, Consuelo. It is settled! But all +my little bells fell off to-day and---- + + [_Bezano appears, confused._] + +CONSUELO + +Alfred! You came for me? + +BEZANO + +Yes. Will you work some more, Consuelo? + +CONSUELO + +Certainly. As much as you want. But I thought, Alfred, you were mad at +me? I shan't dawdle any more. + +BEZANO + +No. You didn't dawdle. Don't be offended, because I yelled so much. You +know when one has to teach, and---- + +CONSUELO + +My goodness, do you think I don't understand? You are too nice, +unbearably nice, to like teaching such a fool as me. Do you think I +don't understand? Come on! + +BEZANO + +Come on! Hello, HE! I haven't seen you yet to-day. How are you? + +HE + +How are you, Bezano? Wait, wait a minute--stay here a minute, both of +you--that way. Yes! + + [CONSUELO _and_ BEZANO _stand side by side, the jockey scowling_, + CONSUELO _laughing and flushing_.] + +CONSUELO + +Like Adam and Eve? How foolish you are! Terribly. [_She runs away._] I +shall only change my slippers, Alfred. + +HE + +Consuelo! And how about Father and the Baron? They will come soon, to +take you with them. + +CONSUELO + +Let them come. They can wait. Not very important people. [_Runs away._ +BEZANO _hesitatingly follows her_.] + +HE + +Stay here for a while, Bezano. Sit down. + +BEZANO + +What more do you want? I have no time for your nonsense. + +HE + +You can remain standing if you want. Bezano--you love her? [_Silence._] + +BEZANO + +I shall allow nobody to interfere with my affairs. You allow yourself +too many liberties, HE. I don't know you. You came from the street, and +why should I trust you? + +HE + +But you know the Baron? Listen. It is painful for me to pronounce these +words: she loves you. Save her from the spider! Or are you blind, and +don't see the web, which is woven in every dark corner. Get out of the +vicious circle in which you are turning around, like a blind man. Take +her away, steal her, do what you want ... kill her even, and take her to +the heavens or to the devil! But don't give her to this man! He is a +defiler of love. And if you are timid, if you are afraid to lift your +hand against her--kill the Baron! Kill! + +BEZANO + +[_With a smile_]: And who will kill the others, to come? + +HE + +She loves you. + +BEZANO + +Did she tell you that herself? + +HE + +What a petty, what a stupid, what a human pride! But _you_ are a little +god! A god, youth! Why don't you want to believe me? Or does the +street, from which I have come, bother you? But look, look yourself. +Look in my eyes, do such eyes lie? Yes, my face is ugly, I make faces +and grimaces, I am surrounded by laughter, but don't you see the god +behind all this, a god, like you? Look, look at me! [BEZANO _bursts out +laughing_.] What are you laughing at, youth? + +BEZANO + +You look now as you did that evening in the ring. You remember? When you +were a great man, and they sent for you from the Academy, and +suddenly--Hup! HE Who Gets Slapped! + +HE + +[_Laughing the same way_]: Yes, yes, you are right, Bezano. There is a +resemblance. [_With a strained expression, taking a pose_] "It seems to +me they sent for me from the Academy!" + +BEZANO + +[_Displeased_]: But I don't like this play. You can present your face +for slaps if you want to, but don't dare to expose mine. [_Turns to +go._] + +HE + +Bezano! + +BEZANO + +[_Turning round_]: And never let me hear any more about Consuelo, and +don't dare to tell me again that I am a god! It is disgusting. + + [BEZANO _goes out angrily, striking his boot with his whip. HE is + alone. Wrathfully, with a tortured expression, he makes a step + towards the jockey, then stops, with soundless laughter, his head + thrown backwards. The_ BARON _and_ MANCINI _find him in this + position, when they enter_.] + +MANCINI + +[_Laughing_]: What a cheerful chap you are, HE! You laugh when you are +alone. [_HE laughs aloud._] Stop it fool! How can you stand it? + +HE + +[_Bowing low, with a large gesture_]: How do you do, Baron? My humblest +respects to you, Count. I beg your pardon, Count, but you found the +clown at work. These are, so to speak, Baron, his every-day pleasures. + +MANCINI + +[_Lifting his eyebrows_]: Tsss. But you are a clever man, HE. I shall +ask Papa Briquet to give you a benefit performance. Shall I, HE? + +HE + +Please do me the favour, Count. + +MANCINI + +Don't overdo. Be more simple, HE. [_Laughs._] But how many slaps will +you get at your benefit performance, when even on weekdays they ring you +like a gong! A funny profession, isn't it, Baron? + +BARON + +Very strange. But where is the Countess? + +MANCINI + +Yes, yes. I shall go for her at once. Dear child, she is so absorbed in +her benefit performance and her work. They call this jumping _work_, +Baron. + +BARON + +I can wait a little. [_Sits down, with his silk hat on his head._] + +MANCINI + +But why? I shall hurry her up. I shall be back at once. And you, HE, be +a nice host, and entertain our dear guest. You will not be bored in his +company, Baron. + + [_He goes out. HE strides about the stage, smiling and glancing + from time to time at the_ BARON. _The latter sits with his legs + spread apart and his chin on the top of his cane. The silk hat + remains on his head. He is silent._] + +HE + +In what way would you like me to entertain you, Baron? + +BARON + +In no way! I don't like clowns. + +HE + +Nor I Barons. + + [_Silence. HE puts on his derby hat, takes a chair with a large + gesture, and puts it down heavily, in front of the_ BARON. _HE sits + astride it, imitating the pose of the_ BARON, _and looks him in the + eyes. Silence._] + +HE + +Can you be silent very long? + +BARON + +Very long. + +HE + +[_Taps on the floor with his foot_]: And can you wait very long? + +BARON + +Very long. + +HE + +Until you get it? + +BARON + +Until I get it. And you? + +HE + +I too. + + [_Both look at each other, silently, their heads close together. + From the ring one hears the strains of the Tango._] + +CURTAIN + + + + +ACT IV + + +_Music in the ring. More disorder in the room than usual. All kinds of +actors' costumes hanging on pegs and lying in the corners. On the table +a bouquet of fiery-red roses, put there by some careless hand. At the +entrance, near the arch, three bareback riders are smoking and +chattering; they are all minor actors. All part their hair the same way; +two wear small moustaches; the third one is clean-shaven with a face +like a bull-dog._ + +THE CLEAN-SHAVEN ONE + +Go on, Henry! Ten thousand francs! It's too much even for the Baron. + +THE SECOND + +How much are roses now? + +THE SHAVEN + +I don't know. In winter they are certainly more expensive, but still +Henry talks nonsense. Ten thousand! + +THE SECOND + +The Baron has his own hothouse. They don't cost him anything. + +HENRY + +[_Throwing away hit cigar, which has burned the tips of his fingers_]: +No, Grab, you're silly. There's a whole car-load full! One can smell the +roses a mile away. They're to cover the entire arena. + +THE SHAVEN + +Only the ring. + +HENRY + +It's all the same. In order to cover the ring, you must have thousands +and thousands of roses. You'll see what it looks like, when they've +covered everything like a carpet. He ordered them to make it like a +carpet! Do you see, Grab? + +THE SECOND + +What a Baron's craze! Isn't it time yet? + +HENRY + +No, we have time enough. I rather like it: a fiery-red tango on a +fiery-red cover of winter roses! + +THE SHAVEN + +Consuelo will be galloping on roses. And Bezano? + +THE SECOND + +And Bezano on thorns. [_Smiles._] + +THE SHAVEN + +That youngster has no self-respect. I'd have refused. + +HENRY + +But it is his job. He's got to do it. [_Laughs._] Talk to him about +self-respect. He's as angry and proud as a little Satan. + +THE SECOND + +No, you may say what you like, it's an excellent benefit performance. +It's a joy to look at the crowd. They're so excited. + +HENRY + +Tss! [_All throw away their cigars and cigarettes, like school boys who +are caught, and make way for_ ZINIDA, _who enters with_ HE.] + +ZINIDA + +What are you doing here, gentlemen? Your place is at the entrance. + +HENRY + +[_With a respectful smile_]: We are here just for a minute, Madame +Zinida. We are going. What a successful evening! And what a glory for +Papa Briquet! + +ZINIDA + +Yes. Go, and please don't leave your places. [_They go._ ZINIDA _pulls a +drawer out of the desk, and puts in some papers. She is in her lion +tamer's costume._] HE, what were you doing near my lions? You frightened +me. + +HE + +Why, Duchess, I merely wanted to hear what the beasts were saying about +the benefit performance. They are pacing in their cages, and growling. + +ZINIDA + +The music makes them nervous. Sit down, HE. An excellent evening, and I +am so glad that Consuelo is leaving us. Have you heard about the Baron's +roses. + +HE + +Everybody is talking about them. The Hymeneal roses! + +ZINIDA + +Here are some, too. [_Pushes away the bouquet._] You find them +everywhere. Yes, I am glad. She is superfluous here, and disturbs our +work. It is a misfortune for a cast to have in it such a beautiful and +such an ... accessible girl. + +HE + +But it is an honest marriage, Duchess, is it not? + +ZINIDA + +I don't care what it is. + +HE + +Spiders, too need an improvement in their breed! Can't you imagine, +Zinida, what charming little spiders this couple will create! They will +have the face of their mother, Consuelo, and the stomach of their +father, the Baron, and thus could be an ornament for any circus-ring. + +ZINIDA + +You are malicious to-day, HE. You are morose. + +HE + +I laugh. + +ZINIDA + +You do, but without joy. Why are you without make-up? + +HE + +I am in the third act. I have time. And how does Bezano feel about this +evening. Is he glad? + +ZINIDA + +I didn't talk to Bezano. You know what I think, my friend? You, too, are +superfluous here. [_Silence._] + +HE + +How do you want me to take that, Zinida? + +ZINIDA + +Just as I said. In fact, Consuelo sold herself for nothing. What is the +Baron worth, with his poor millions? People say that you are clever, too +clever perhaps; tell me then, for how much could one buy me? + +HE + +[_Looking as if he were pricing her_]: Only for a crown. + +ZINIDA + +A baron's crown? + +HE + +No, a royal one. + +ZINIDA + +You are far from being stupid. And you guessed that Consuelo is not +Mancini's daughter? + +HE + +[_Startled_]: What! And she knows it? + +ZINIDA + +Hardly. Why should she know it? Yes, she is a girl from Corsica whose +parents are unknown. He preferred to use her for business rather +than.... But according to the law, she is his daughter, Countess +Veronica Mancini. + +HE + +It is nice, to have everything done according to law, isn't it, Zinida? +But it is curious there is more blue blood in her than in this Mancini. +One would say that it was she who found him on the street, and made him +a count and her father. Count Mancini! [_Laughs._] + +ZINIDA + +Yes, you are gloomy, HE. I changed my mind, you'd better stay. + +HE + +Will I not be superfluous? + +ZINIDA + +When she is gone, you will not. Oh! You don't know yet, how nice it is +to be with us. What a rest for the body and mind. I understand you. I am +clever, too. Like you, I brought with me from out there my inclination +for chains, and for a long time I chained myself to whatever I could, in +order to feel firm. + +HE + +Bezano? + +ZINIDA + +Bezano and others; there were many, there will be many more. My red +lion, with whom I am desperately in love, is still more terrible than +Bezano. But it is all nonsense; old habits, which we are sorry to let +go, like old servants who steal things. Leave Consuelo alone. She has +her own way. + +HE + +Automobiles and diamonds? + +ZINIDA + +When did you see a beauty clad in simple cotton? If this one does not +buy her, another will. They buy off everything that is beautiful. Yes, I +know. For the first ten years she will be a sad beauty, who will attract +the eyes of the poor man on the side-walk: afterward she will begin to +paint a little around her eyes and smile, and then will take---- + +HE + +Her _chauffeur_ or butler as a lover? You're not guessing badly, Zinida! + +ZINIDA + +Am I not right? I don't want to intrude on your confidence, but to-day I +am sorry for you, HE. What can you do against Fate? Don't be offended, +my friend, by the words of a woman. I like you; you are not beautiful, +nor young, nor rich, and your place is---- + +HE + +On the side-walk, from which one looks at the beauties. [_Laughs._] And +if I don't want to? + +ZINIDA + +What does it matter, your "want" or "don't want"? I am sorry for you, my +poor friend, but if you are a strong man, and I think you are, then +there is only one way for you. To forget. + +HE + +You think that that's being strong? And you are saying this, you, Queen +Zinida, who want to awaken the feeling of love, even in the heart of a +lion? For one second of an illusory possession, you are ready to pay +with your life, and still you advise me to forget! Give me your strong +hand, my beautiful lady; see how much strength there is in this +pressure, and don't pity me. + +[_Enter_ BRIQUET _and_ MANCINI. _The latter it reserved, and +self-consciously imposing. He has a new suit, but the same cane, and the +same noiseless smile of a satyr._] + +ZINIDA + +[_Whispering_]: Will you stay? + +HE + +Yes. I shan't go away. + +MANCINI + +How are you, my dear? But you are dazzling, my dear! I swear you are +marvellous! Your lion would be an ass, if he did not kiss your hand, as +I do.... [_Kisses her hand._] + +ZINIDA + +May I congratulate you, Count? + +MANCINI + +Yes, merci. [_To_ HE]: How are you, my dear? + +HE + +Good evening, Count! + +BRIQUET + +Zinida, the Count wants to pay immediately for the breach of contract +with Consuelo ... the Countess's contract. Don't you remember, Mother, +how much it is? + +ZINIDA + +I'll look it up, Papa. + +MANCINI + +Yes, please. Consuelo will not return here any more. We leave to-morrow. + +[ZINIDA _and_ BRIQUET _search among the papers_. HE _takes_ MANCINI +_roughly by the elbow, and draws him aside._] + +HE + +[_In a low voice_]: How are your girls, Mancini? + +MANCINI + +What girls? What is this, stupidity or blackmail? Look out, sir, be +careful, the policeman is not far. + +HE + +You are much too severe, Mancini. I assumed, that since we are +_tête-á-tête_.... + +MANCINI + +But tell me, what kind of _tête-á-tête_ is possible, between a clown and +me? [_Laughs._] You are stupid, HE. You should say what you want, and +not ask questions! + +BRIQUET + +Three thousand francs, Count. + +MANCINI + +Is that all? For Consuelo? All right. I'll tell the Baron. + +ZINIDA + +You took---- + +BRIQUET + +Don't, Mother, don't. + +ZINIDA + +Count, you drew in advance, I have it written down, eighty francs and +twenty centimes. Will you pay this money, too? + +MANCINI + +Certainly, certainly. You will get three thousand and one hundred. +[_Laughing_] Twenty centimes! I never thought I could be so accurate. +[_Seriously_] Yes, my friends. My daughter Consuelo--the Countess--and +the Baron, expressed their desire to bid farewell to the whole cast. + +HE + +The Baron, too? + +MANCINI + +Yes, Auguste, too. They want to do it during the intermission. +Therefore, I ask you to gather here ... the more decent ones ... but +please don't make it too crowded! HE, will you, sir, be kind enough to +run into the buffet and tell them to bring right away a basket of +champagne, bottles and glasses--you understand? + +HE + +Yes, Count. + +MANCINI + +Wait a minute, what's the hurry--what is this, a new costume? You are +all burning like the devils in hell! + +HE + +You do me too much honour, Count, I am not a devil. I am merely a poor +sinner who the devils are frying a little. [_He goes out, bowing like a +clown._] + +MANCINI + +A gifted chap, but too cunning. + +BRIQUET + +It's the Tango colour, in honour of your daughter, Count. He needs it +for a new stunt, which he doesn't want to tell in advance. Don't you +want to sit down, Count? + +MANCINI + +Auguste is waiting for me, but ... it's all right. [_Takes a seat._] +Nevertheless I am sorry to leave you, my friend. High society, +certainly, prerogatives of the title, castles of exalted noblemen, but +where could I find such freedom, and ... such simplicity.... And +besides, these announcements, these burning posters, which take your +breath in the morning, they had something which summoned, which +encouraged.... _There_, my friends, I shall become old. + +BRIQUET + +But pleasures of a higher kind, Count. Why are you silent, Zinida? + +ZINIDA + +I'm listening. + +MANCINI + +By the way, my dear, how do you like my suit? You have wonderful taste. +[_Spreads out his lace tie and lace cuffs._] + +ZINIDA + +I like it. You look like a nobleman of the courts of long ago. + +MANCINI + +Yes? But don't you think it is too conspicuous? Who wears lace and satin +now? This dirty democracy will soon make us dress ourselves in sack +cloth. [_With a sigh_] Auguste told me that this jabot was out of place. + +ZINIDA + +The Baron is too severe. + +MANCINI + +Yes, but it seems to me he is right. I am a little infected with your +fancy. [HE _returns. Two waiters follow him, carrying a basket of +champagne and glasses. They prepare everything on the table._] + +MANCINI + +Ah! _merci_, HE. But, please, none of this bourgeoise exploding of +corks; be slower and more modest. Send the bill to Baron Regnard. Then, +we will be here, Briquet. I must go. + +ZINIDA + +[_Looks at her watch_]: Yes, the act is going to end soon. + +MANCINI + +Heavens! [_Disappears in a hurry._] + +BRIQUET + +The devil take him! + +ZINIDA + +[_Pointing to the waiter_]: Not so loud, Louis! + +BRIQUET + +No! The devil take him! And why couldn't you help me, Mother? You left +me alone to talk to him. High Society! High pleasures! Swindler! [HE +_and_ ZINIDA _laugh. The waiters smile._] + +BRIQUET + +[_To the waiters_]: What are you laughing about? You can go. We will +help ourselves. Whiskey and soda, Jean! [_In a low and angry voice_] +Champagne! [_Enter_ JACKSON, _in his clown's costume._] + +JACKSON + +A whiskey and soda for me, too! At least I hear some laughter here. +Those idiots have simply forgotten how to laugh. My sun was rising and +setting and crawling all over the ring---- and not a smile! Look at my +bottom, shines like a mirror! [_Turns around quickly._] Beg your pardon, +Zinida. And you don't look badly to-night, HE. Look out for your cheeks. +I hate beauties. + +BRIQUET + +A benefit performance crowd! + +JACKSON + +[_Looking in a hand mirror, correcting his make-up_]: In the orchestra +there are some Barons and Egyptian mummies. I got a belly-ache from +fright. I am an honest clown. I can't stand it when they look at me as +if I had stolen a handkerchief. HE, please give them a good many slaps +to-night. + +HE + +Be quiet, Jim. I shall avenge you. [_HE goes out._] + +ZINIDA + +And how is Bezano? + +JACKSON + +[_Grumbling_]: Bezano! A crazy success. But he is crazy, he will break +his neck to-morrow. Why does he run such a risk? Or perhaps he has +wings, like a god? Devil take it. It's disgusting to look at him. It's +not work any more. + +BRIQUET + +You are right, Jim! It is not work any more. To your health, old +comrade, Jackson. + +JACKSON + +To yours, Louis. + +BRIQUET + +It is not work any more, since these Barons came here! Do you hear? They +are laughing. But I am indignant, I am indignant, Jim! What do they want +here, these Barons? Let them steal hens in other hen roosts, and leave +us in peace. Ah! Had I been Secretary of the Interior, I should have +made an iron fence between us and those people. + +JACKSON + +I am very sorry myself for our dear little Consuelo. I don't know why, +but it seems to me that we all look to-day more like swindlers than +honest artists. Don't you think so, Zinida? + +ZINIDA + +Everybody does what he wants. It's Consuelo's business and her father's. + +BRIQUET + +No, Mother, that's not true! Not everybody does what he wants, but it +turns out this way ... devil knows why. + +_[Enter_ ANGELICA _and_ THOMAS, _an athlete._] + +ANGELICA + +Is this where we're going to have champagne? + +BRIQUET + +And you're glad already? + +THOMAS + +There it is! Oh, oh, what a lot! + +ANGELICA + +The Count told me to come here. I met him. + +BRIQUET + +[_Angrily_]: All right, if he said so, but there is no reason to enjoy +it. Look out, Angelica, you will have a bad end. I see you through and +through. How does she work, Thomas? + +THOMAS + +Very well. + +ANGELICA + +[_In a low voice_]: How angry Papa Briquet is to-night. + +[Enter HE, TILLY, POLLY, _and other actors, all in their costumes._] + +TILLY + +Do you really want champagne? + +POLLY + +I don't want it at all. Do you, Tilly? + +TILLY + +And I don't want it. HE, did you see how the Count walks? [_Walks, +imitating_ MANCINI. _Laughter._] + +POLLY + +Let me be the Baron. Take my arm. Look out, ass, you stepped on my +beloved family tree! + +ANGELICA + +It'll soon be finished. Consuelo is galloping now. It is her waltz. What +a success she is having! + +[_All listen to the waltz._ TILLY _and_ POLLY _are singing it softly._] + +ANGELICA + +She is so beautiful! Are those her flowers? + +[_They listen. Suddenly, a crash as if a broken wall were tumbling down: +applause, shouting, screaming; much motion on the stage. The actors are +pouring champagne. New ones come in, talking and laughing. When they +notice the director and the champagne, they become quiet and modest._] + +VOICES + +They're coming! What a success! I should say, since all the orchestra +seats.... And what will it be when they see the Tango? Don't be envious, +Alphonse. + +BRIQUET + +Silence! Not so much noise, please! Zinida, look here, don't be so +quiet! High society! + +[_Enter_ CONSUELO, _on the arm of the_ BARON _who is stiff and erect. +She is happy._ MANCINI, _serious and happy. Behind them, riders, actors, +actresses. The_ BARON _has in his button-hole a fiery-red rose. All +applaud and cry: "Bravo, bravo!"_] + +CONSUELO + +Friends ... my dears ... Father, I can't ... [_Throws herself into_ +MANCINI'S _arms, and hides her face on his shoulders._ MANCINI _looks +with a smile over her head at the_ BARON. BARON _smiles slightly, but +remains earnest and motionless. A new burst of applause._] + +BRIQUET + +Enough, children! Enough! + +MANCINI + +Calm yourself, calm yourself, my child. How they all love you! [_Taking +a step forward_] Ladies and gentlemen, Baron Regnard did me the honour +yesterday, to ask for the hand of my daughter, the Countess Veronica, +whom you knew under the name of Consuelo. Please take your glasses. + +CONSUELO + +No, I am still Consuelo, to-night, and I shall always be Consuelo! +Zinida, dear! [_Falls on the neck of_ ZINIDA. _Fresh applause._] + +BRIQUET + +Stop it! Silence! Take your glasses. What are you standing here for? If +you came, then take the glasses. + +TILLY + +[_Trembling_]: They are frightened. You take yours first, Papa, and we +will follow. + +[_They take the glasses._ CONSUELO _is near the_ BARON, _holding the +sleeve of his dress coat with her left hand. In her right hand, she has +a glass of champagne, which spills over._] + +BARON + +You are spilling your wine, Consuelo. + +CONSUELO + +Ah! It is nothing! I am frightened, too. Are you, Father? + +MANCINI + +Silly child. [_An awkward silence._] + +BRIQUET + +[_With a step forward_]: Countess! As the director of the circus, who +was happy enough ... to witness ... many times ... your successes.... + +CONSUELO + +I do not _like_ this, Papa Briquet! I am Consuelo. What do you want to +do with me? I shall cry. I don't want this "Countess." Give me a kiss, +Briquet! + +BRIQUET + +Ah, Consuelo! Books have killed you. + +[_Kisses her with tears. Laughter, applause. The clowns cluck like hens, +bark, and express their emotions in many other ways. The motley crowd of +clowns, which is ready for the pantomime, becomes more and more lively. +The_ BARON _is motionless, there is a wide space around him; the people +touch glasses with him in a hurry, and go off to one side. With_ +CONSUELO _they clink willingly and cheerfully. She kisses the women._] + +JACKSON + +Silence! Consuelo, from to-day on, I extinguish my sun. Let the dark +night come after you leave us. You were a nice comrade and worker, we +all loved you and will love the traces of your little feet on the sand. +Nothing remains to us! + +CONSUELO + +You are so good, so good, Jim. So good that there is no one better. And +your sun is better than all the other suns. I laughed so much at it. +Alfred, dear, why don't you come? I was looking for you. + +BEZANO + +My congratulations, Countess. + +CONSUELO + +Alfred, I am Consuelo! + +BEZANO + +When you are on horseback; but here--I congratulate you, Countess. [_He +passes, only slightly touching_ CONSUELO'S _glass_. CONSUELO _still +holds it_. MANCINI _looks at the_ BARON _with a smile_. _The latter is +motionless._] + +BRIQUET + +Nonsense, Bezano. You are making Consuelo unhappy. She is a good +comrade. + +CONSUELO + +No, it's all right. + +ANGELICA + +You'll dance the Tango with her to-night, so how is she a countess? + +TILLY + +May I clink glasses with you, Consuelo? You know Polly has died of grief +already, and I am going to die. I have such a weak stomach. + + [_Laughter_; BARON _shows slight displeasure_. _General motion._] + +MANCINI + +Enough, enough! The intermission is over. + +CONSUELO + +Already? It's so nice here. + +BRIQUET + +I shall prolong it. They can wait. Tell them, Thomas. + +MANCINI + +Auguste, the musicians of the orchestra, too, ask permission to +congratulate you and Consuelo. Do you ...? + +BARON + +Certainly, certainly. + + [_Enter crowd of musicians. The conductor, an old Italian, lifts + his glass solemnly and without looking at the_ BARON.] + +THE CONDUCTOR + +Consuelo! They call you Countess here, but for me you were and are +_Consuelo_. + +CONSUELO + +Certainly! + +THE CONDUCTOR + +Consuelo! My violins and bassoons, my trumpets and drums, all are +drinking your health. Be happy, dear child, as you were happy here. And +we shall conserve for ever in our hearts the fair memory of our +light-winged fairy, who guided our bows so long. I have finished! Give +my love to our beautiful Italy, Consuelo. + + [_Applause, compliments. The musicians one after another clink + glasses and go out into the corridor._ CONSUELO _is almost + crying_.] + +MANCINI + +Don't be so sensitive, my child, it is indecent. Had I known that you +would respond this way to this comedy--Auguste, look how touched this +little heart is! + +BARON + +Calm yourself, Consuelo. + +CONSUELO + +It is all right. Ah, Father, listen! + + [_The musicians are playing the Tango in the corridor. + Exclamations._] + +MANCINI + +You see. It is for you. + +CONSUELO + +They are so nice. My Tango! I want to dance. Who is going to dance with +me? [_Looks around, seeking_ BEZANO, _who turns away sadly_.] Who, +then? + +VOICES + +Baron! Let the Baron dance! Baron! + +BARON + +All right. [_Takes_ CONSUELO'S _arm, and stands in the centre of a +circle which is formed_.] I do not know how to dance the Tango, but I +shall hold tight. Dance, Consuelo. [_He stands with legs spread, heavily +and awkwardly, like an iron-moulded man, holding_ CONSUELO'S _arm firmly +and seriously_.] + +MANCINI + +[_Applauding_]: Bravo! Bravo! [CONSUELO _makes a few restless movements, +and pulls her arm away_.] + +CONSUELO + +No, I can't this way. How stupid! Let me go! [_She goes to_ ZINIDA _and +embraces her, as if hiding herself_. _The music still plays. The_ BARON +_goes off quietly to the side_. _There is an unfriendly silence among +the cast. They shrug their shoulders._] + +MANCINI + +[_Alone_]: Bravo! Bravo! It is charming, it is exquisite! + +JACKSON + +Not entirely, Count. + + [TILLY _and_ POLLY _imitate the_ BARON _and_ CONSUELO _without + moving from their places_.] + +TILLY + +[_Shrieking_]: Let me go! + +POLLY + +No, I'll not. Dance! + + [_The music stops abruptly. General, too loud laughter; the clowns + bark and roar. Papa_ BRIQUET _gesticulates, in order to + re-establish silence_. _The_ BARON _is apparently as indifferent as + before_.] + +MANCINI + +Really these vagabonds are becoming too impertinent. [_Shrugging his +shoulders_] It smells of the stable. You cannot help it, Auguste! + +BARON + +Don't be upset, Count. + +HE + +[_Holding his glass, approaches the_ BARON]: Baron. Will you permit me +to make a toast? + +BARON + +Make it. + +HE + +To your dance! [_Slight laughter in the crowd._] + +BARON + +I don't dance! + +HE + +Then another one, Baron. Let us drink to those who know how to wait +longer, until they get it. + +BARON + +I do not accept any toasts which I do not understand. Say it more +simply. + +[_Voice of a woman: "Bravo, HE!_" _Slight laughter._ + + MANCINI _says something hastily to_ BRIQUET; _the latter spreads + his arms in gesture of helplessness_. JACKSON _takes HE by the + arm_.] + +JACKSON + +Beat it, HE! The Baron doesn't like jokes. + +HE + +But I want to drink with the Baron. What can be simpler? Simpler? Baron, +let us drink to the very small distance which will always remain 'twixt +the cup and the lip! [_Spills his wine, and laughs._] + + [_The_ BARON _turns his back on him, indifferently_. _The music + plays in the ring. The bell rings._] + +BRIQUET + +[_Relieved_]: There! To the ring, ladies and gentlemen, to the ring, to +the ring! + + [_The actresses run out. The crowd becomes smaller; laughter and + voices._] + +MANCINI + +[_Much excited, whispers to the_ BARON]: "Auguste, Auguste----" + +BRIQUET + +[_To_ ZINIDA]: Thank heaven they're beginning. Ah, Mother, I asked you +... but you want a scandal by all means, and you always---- + +ZINIDA + +Let me alone, Louis. + +[_HE approaches Consuelo, who is alone._] + +CONSUELO + +HE, deary, how are you? I thought you didn't want even to come near me. +[_In a low voice_] Did you notice Bezano? + +HE + +I was waiting for my turn, Queen. It was so difficult to get through the +crowd to approach you. + +CONSUELO + +Through the crowd? [_With a sad smile_] I am quite alone. What do you +want, Father? + +MANCINI + +Child! Auguste.... + +CONSUELO + +[_Pulling away her hand_]: Let me alone! I'll soon be---- Come +here, HE. What did you say to him? They all laughed. I couldn't +understand. What? + +HE + +I joked, Consuelo. + +CONSUELO + +Please don't, HE, don't make him angry; he is so terrible. Did you see +how he pressed my arm? I wanted to scream. [_With tears in her eyes_] He +hurt me! + +HE + +It's not too late yet. Refuse him. + +CONSUELO + +It is too late, HE. Don't talk about it. + +HE + +Do you want it? I will take you away from here. + +CONSUELO + +Where to? [_Laughs._] Ah, my dear little silly boy, where could you take +me to. All right, be quiet. How pale you are! You too, love me? Don't +HE, please don't! Why do they all love me? + +HE + +You are so beautiful! + +CONSUELO + +No, no. It's not true. They must not love me. I was still a little +cheerful, but when they began to speak ... so nicely ... and about +Italy ... and to bid farewell, as if I were dying, I thought I should +begin to cry. Don't talk, don't talk, but drink to ... my happiness. +[_With a sad smile_] To my happiness, HE. What are you doing? + +HE + +I am throwing away the glass from which you drank with the others. I +shall give you another one. Wait a minute. [_Goes to pour champagne._ +CONSUELO _walks about thoughtfully_. _Almost all are gone. Only the +principal figures are left._] + +MANCINI + +[_Coming to her_]: But it is really becoming indecent, Veronica. Auguste +is so nice, he is waiting for you, and you talk here with this clown. +Some stupid secrets. They're looking at you--it is becoming noticeable. +It is high time, Veronica, to get rid of these habits. + +CONSUELO + +[_Loudly_]: Let me alone, Father! I want to do so, and will do so. They +are all my friends. Do you hear? Let me alone! + +BARON + +Don't, Count. Please, Consuelo, talk to whomever you please and as much +as you want. Would you like a cigar, Count? Dear Briquet, please order +them to prolong the intermission a little more. + +BRIQUET + +With pleasure, Baron. The orchestra crowd can be a little angry. [_Goes, +and returns shortly._ _HE gives a glass to_ CONSUELO.] + +HE + +Here is your glass. To your happiness, to your freedom, Consuelo! + +CONSUELO + +And where is yours? We must touch our glasses. + +HE + +You leave half. + +CONSUELO + +Must I drink so much? HE, deary, I shall become drunk. I still have to +ride. + +HE + +No, you will not be drunk. Dear little girl, did you forget that I am +your magician? Be quiet and drink. I charmed the wine. My witchery is +in it. Drink, goddess. + +CONSUELO + +[_Lingeringly_]: What kind eyes you have. But why are you so pale? + +HE + +Because I love you. Look at my kind eyes and drink; give yourself up to +my charms, goddess! You shall fall asleep, and wake again, as before. Do +you remember? And you shall see your country, your sky.... + +CONSUELO + +[_Bringing the glass to her lips_]: I shall see all this; is that true? + +HE + +[_Growing paler_]: Yes! Awake, goddess, and remember the time when, +covered with snow-white sea-foam, thou didst emerge from the sky blue +waters. Remember heaven, and the low eastern wind, and the whisper of +the foam at thy marble feet.... + +CONSUELO + +[_Drinking_]: There! Look! Just a half! Take it. But what is the matter +with you? Are you laughing or crying? + +HE + +I am laughing and crying. + +MANCINI + +[_Pushing HE away, slightly_]: Enough, Countess, my patience is +exhausted. If Auguste is good enough to allow it, then I, your +Father--Your arm, Countess! Will you step aside, sir? + +CONSUELO + +I am tired. + +MANCINI + +You are not too tired to chatter and drink wine with a clown, and when +your duty calls you--Briquet! Tell them to ring the bell. It is time. + +CONSUELO + +I am tired, Father. + +ZINIDA + +Count, it is cruel. Don't you see how pale she has become? + +BARON + +What is the matter with you, dear little Consuelo? + +CONSUELO + +Nothing. + +ZINIDA + +She simply needs a rest, Baron. She hasn't sat down yet ... and so much +excitement.... Sit down here, dear child. Cover yourself and rest a +little. Men are so cruel! + +CONSUELO + +I still have to work. [_Closing her eyes._] And the roses, are they +ready? + +ZINIDA + +Ready, dear, ready. You will have such an extraordinary carpet. You will +gallop as if on air. Rest. + +POLLY + +Do you want some moosic? We will play you a song; do you want it? + +CONSUELO + +[_Smiling, eyes closed_]: Yes, I do. + + [_The clowns play a soft and naïve song: tilly-polly, tilly-polly. + General silence._ _HE sits in the corner with his face turned + away._ JACKSON _watches him out of the corner of his eye, and + drinks wine, lazily_. _The_ BARON, _in his usual pose, wide and + heavily spread legs, looks at the pale face of_ CONSUELO, _with his + bulging motionless eyes_.] + +CONSUELO + +[_With a sudden cry_]: Ah! Pain! + +ZINIDA + +What is it, Consuelo? + +MANCINI + +My child! Are you sick! Calm yourself. + +BARON + +[_Growing pale_]: Wait a moment.... She was too much excited.... +Consuelo! + +CONSUELO + +[_Gets up, looking before her with wide-open eyes, as if she were +listening to something within herself_]: Ah! I feel pain. Here at the +heart. Father, what is it? I am afraid. What is it? My feet too ... I +can't stand.... [_Falls on divan, her eyes wide open._] + +MANCINI + +[_Running about_]: Bring a doctor! Heavens, it is terrible! Auguste, +Baron.... It never happened to her. It is nerves, nerves.... Calm +yourself, calm, child---- + +BRIQUET + +Bring a doctor! [_Somebody runs for a doctor._] + +JACKSON + +[_In a voice full of fear_]: HE, what is the matter with you? + +HE + +It is death, Consuelo, my little Queen. I killed you. You are dying. + + [_He cries, loudly and bitterly._ CONSUELO _with a scream, closes + her eyes, and becomes silent and quiet_. _All are in terrible + agitation. The_ BARON _is motionless, and sees only_ CONSUELO.] + +MANCINI + +[_Furious_]: You are lying, rascal! Damned clown! What did you give her? +You poisoned her! Murderer! Bring a doctor! + +HE + +A doctor will not help. You are dying, my little Queen. Consuelo! +Consuelo! + +[BEZANO _rushes in, cries_: "BRIQUET!" _becomes silent and looks with +horror at_ CONSUELO. _Somebody else comes in._ BRIQUET _is making +gestures for someone to close the door_.] + +CONSUELO + +[_In a dull and distant voice_]: You are joking, HE? Don't frighten me. +I am so frightened. Is that death? I don't want it. Ah, HE, my darling +HE, tell me that you are joking, I am afraid, my dear, golden HE! + + [_HE pushes away the_ BARON, _with a commanding gesture, and stands + in his place near_ CONSUELO. _The_ BARON _stands as before, seeing + only_ CONSUELO.] + +HE + +Yes, I am joking. Don't you hear how I laugh, Consuelo? They all laugh +at you here, my silly child. Don't laugh, Jim. She is tired, and wants +to sleep. How can you laugh, Jim! Sleep my dear, sleep my heart, sleep +my love. + +CONSUELO + +Yes, I have no more pain. Why did you joke that way, and frighten me? +Now I laugh at myself. You told me, didn't you, that I ... should ... +live ... eternally? + +HE + +Yes, Consuelo! You shall live eternally. Sleep. Be calm. [_Lifts up his +arms, as if straining with all his forces to lift her soul higher._] How +easy it is now! How much light, how many lights are burning about +you.... The light is blinding you. + +CONSUELO + +Yes, light.... Is that the ring? + +HE + +No, it is the sea and the sun ... what a sun! Don't you feel that you +are the foam, white sea-foam, and you are flying to the sun? You feel +light, you have no body, you are flying higher, my love! + +CONSUELO + +I am flying. I am the sea-foam, and this is the sun, it shines ... so +strong.... I feel well. + +[_She dies. Silence. HE stays a moment with lifted arms, then takes a +long look, lets his arms fall, and shakingly goes off to one side. He +stands still for a moment, then sits down, drops hit head on his hands, +and struggles lonesomely with the torpidity of coming death._] + +BRIQUET + +[_Slowly_]: She has fallen asleep, Mother? + +ZINIDA + +[_Dropping the dead hand_]: I am afraid not.... Step aside, Louis. +Baron, it is better for you to step aside. Baron! Do you hear me? +[_Weeps._] She is dead, Louis. + + [_The clowns and_ BRIQUET _are crying_. MANCINI _is overwhelmed_. + _The_ BARON _and HE are motionless, each in his place_.] + +JACKSON + +[_Drawing out a large prismatic clown's handkerchief to wipe away his +tears_]: Faded, like a flower. Sleep, little Consuelo! The only thing +that remains of you is the trace of your little feet on the sand. +[_Cries._] Ah, what did you do, what did you do, HE!... It would have +been better if you had never come to us. [_There it music in the +ring._] + +BRIQUET + +[_Gesticulating_]: The music! Stop the music! They are crazy there. What +a misfortune! + + [_Someone runs off._ ZINIDA _approaches the crying_ BEZANO _and + strokes his bowed, pomaded head_. _When he notices her, he catches + her hand and presses it to his eyes._ _The_ BARON _takes the rose + from his button-hole, tears off the petals, and drops it, grinding + it with his foot_. _A few pale faces peer through the door, the + same masquerade crowd._] + +ZINIDA + +[_Over the head of_ BEZANO]: Louis, we must call the police. + +MANCINI + +[_Awakening from his stupor, screams_]: The police! Call the police! +It's a murder! I am Count Mancini, I am Count Mancini! They will cut off +your head, murderer, damned clown, thief! I myself will kill you, +rascal! Ah, you! [_HE lifts his heavy head with difficulty._] + +HE + +They will cut off my head? And what more.... Your Excellency? + +BARON + +Sir! Listen, sir! I am going for the police. Stop it, sir. [_He suddenly +takes a step forward, and looking HE in the eyes, speaks in a hoarse +voice, with a cough, holding one hand at his throat._] I am the witness. +I saw. I am a witness. I saw how he put poison ... I---- + + [_He leaves the room, suddenly, with the same straight, heavy + steps. All move away from him, frightened. HE drops his head again. + From time to time a tremor shakes his body._] + +JACKSON + +[_Clasping his hands_]: Then it is all true? Poisoned! What a vile man +you are, HE. Is this the way to play? Now wait for the last slap of the +executioner! [_Makes the gesture around his neck, of the guillotine. +Tilly and Polly repeat the gesture._] + +ZINIDA + +Leave his soul alone, Jim. He was a man, and he loved. Happy Consuelo! + + [_A shot is heard in the corridor._ THOMAS, _frightened, runs in + and points to his head_.] + +THOMAS + +Baron ... Baron ... his head.... He shot himself?... + +BRIQUET + +[_Throwing his arms up_]: God! What is it? The Baron? What a calamity +for our circus. + +MANCINI + +The Baron? The Baron? No. What are you standing here for? Ah! + +BRIQUET + +Calm down, Count. Who would have believed it? Such a respectable ... +gentleman! + +HE + +[_Lifting his head with difficulty; he sees only dimly with his dulled +eyes_]: What more? What happened? + +THOMAS + +The Baron shot himself. Honestly. Straight here! He's lying out yonder. + +HE + +[_Thinking it over_]: Baron? [_Laughs._] Then the Baron burst? + +JACKSON + +Stop it! It's shameless. A man died and you.... What's the matter with +you, HE? + +HE + +[_Stands up, lifted to his feet by the last gleam of consciousness and +life, speaks strongly and indignantly_]: You loved her so much, Baron? +So much? My Consuelo? And you want to be ahead of me even _there_? No! I +am coming. We shall prove then whose she is to be for ever.... + + [_He catches at his throat, falls on his back. People run to him. + General agitation._] + +CURTAIN + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of He Who Gets Slapped, by +Leonid Nikolayevich Andreyev + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK HE WHO GETS SLAPPED *** + +***** This file should be named 37961-8.txt or 37961-8.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/3/7/9/6/37961/ + +Produced by Chuck Greif and the Online Distributed +Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This book was +produced from scanned images of public domain material +from the Google Print project.) + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: He Who Gets Slapped + A Play in Four Acts + +Author: Leonid Nikolayevich Andreyev + +Translator: Gregory Zilboorg + +Release Date: November 9, 2011 [EBook #37961] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK HE WHO GETS SLAPPED *** + + + + +Produced by Chuck Greif and the Online Distributed +Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This book was +produced from scanned images of public domain material +from the Google Print project.) + + + + + + +</pre> + +<hr class="full" /> + +<p class="cb">HE WHO GETS SLAPPED</p> + +<p class="figcenter"> +<a href="images/cover_lg.jpg"> +<img src="images/cover.jpg" width="367" height="550" alt="image of the book's cover" /></a> +</p> + +<p class="figcenter" style="width: 550px;"> +<a href="images/front_lg.jpg"> +<img src="images/front_sml.jpg" width="550" height="321" alt="A SCENE FROM THE THEATRE GUILD PRODUCTION"/></a> +<br /> +<span class="captionn"> +<i>Setting by Lee Simonson</i> <span style="margin-left: 40%;"><i>Photograph by Francis Bruguierre</i></span></span><br /> +<br /> +<span class="caption"> +A SCENE FROM THE THEATRE GUILD PRODUCTION</span> +</p> + +<h1>He Who Gets Slapped</h1> + +<p class="cb">A PLAY IN FOUR ACTS<br /> +<br /> +BY LEONID ANDREYEV<br /> +<br /> +<small>TRANSLATED FROM THE RUSSIAN<br /> +WITH AN INTRODUCTION BY</small><br /> +<br /> +GREGORY ZILBOORG</p> + +<p class="figcenter"> +<img src="images/colophon.jpg" width="100" height="144" alt="colophon"/> +</p> + +<p class="cb">NEW YORK<br /> +BRENTANO'S<br /> +Publishers<br /> +<br /> +<br /> +<br /> +<span class="smcap">Copyright, 1922, by</span><br /> +BRENTANO'S<br /> +———<br /> +<span class="smcap">Copyright, 1921, by</span><br /> +THE DIAL PUBLISHING COMPANY<br /> +———<br /> +<i>All rights reserved</i><br /> +<br /> +<i>Printed in the United States of America</i><br /> +</p> + +<p> +<br /> +<br /> +</p> + +<p><a name="CONTENTS" id="CONTENTS"></a></p> + +<table border="4" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" summary="CONTENTS"> +<tr><td><a href="#INTRODUCTION">INTRODUCTION, </a> +<a href="#ACT_I">ACT I, </a> +<a href="#ACT_II">ACT II, </a> +<a href="#ACT_III">ACT III, </a> +<a href="#ACT_IV">ACT IV</a></td></tr> +</table> + +<p> +<br /> +<br /> +</p> + +<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" summary=""> + +<tr><td colspan="6">The first regular production of HE in English was by The Theatre Guild +on January 9, 1922,<br /> at the Garrick Theatre, New York. The original cast +was as follows:</td></tr> + +<tr><td><i>Tilly</i></td> <td +style="font-size:200%;" rowspan="2">}</td> <td> </td> <td rowspan="2"><i>Musical Clowns</i> </td> + +<td +style="font-size:200%;" rowspan="2">{</td> <td align="right">Philip Leigh</td></tr> +<tr><td><i>Polly</i></td><td> </td><td align="right">Edgar Stehli</td></tr> +<tr><td><i>Briquet, Manager of the Circus</i></td> <td colspan="4" rowspan="3"> </td> <td align="right">Ernest Cossart</td></tr> +<tr><td><i>Mancini, Consuelo's Father</i></td> <td align="right">Frank Reicher</td></tr> +<tr><td><i>Zinida, a Lion Tamer</i> </td> <td align="right">Helen Westley</td></tr> +<tr><td><i>Angelica</i></td> <td +style="font-size:200%;" rowspan="2">}</td> <td> </td> <td rowspan="2"><i>Trapeze Performers</i> </td> +<td style="font-size:200%;" rowspan="2">{</td> <td align="right">Martha Bryan Allen</td></tr> +<tr><td><i>Estelle</i></td><td> </td><td align="right">Helen Sheridan</td></tr> +<tr><td><i>Francois</i> </td> <td colspan="4" rowspan="13"> </td> <td align="right">Edwin R. Wolfe</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><i>HE</i></td> <td align="right">Richard Bennett</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><i>Jackson, a Clown</i></td><td align="right">Henry Travers</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><i>Consuelo, the Equestrian Tango Queen</i></td><td align="right">Margalo Gillmore</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><i>Alfred Bezano, a Bareback Rider</i></td><td align="right">John Rutherford</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><i>Baron Regnard</i></td><td align="right">Louis Calvert</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><i>A Gentleman</i></td><td align="right">John Blair</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><i>Wardrobe Lady</i></td><td align="right">Kathryn Wilson</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><i>Usher</i></td><td align="right">Charles Cheltenham</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><i>Conductor</i></td><td align="right">Edwin R. Wolfe</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><i>Pierre</i></td><td align="right">Philip Loeb</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><i>A Sword Dancer</i></td><td align="right">Renee Wilde</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><i>Ballet Master</i></td><td align="right">Oliver Grymes</td></tr> +<tr><td><i>Ballet Girls</i></td> +<td colspan="3"> </td> +<td style="font-size:370%;vertical-align:30%;">{</td> +<td align="right">Vera Tompkins<br /> +Anne Tonnetti<br /> +Marguerite Wernimont<br /> +Frances Ryan</td></tr> + +<tr><td><i>Actresses in Circus Pantomime</i> +</td> +<td colspan="3"> </td> +<td +style="font-size:200%;vertical-align:30%;">{</td><td align="right"> +Adele St. Maur<br /> +Sara Enright</td></tr> + +<tr><td align="left"><i>Thomas, a Strong Man</i></td> +<td rowspan="5" colspan="4"> </td> + +<td align="right">Dante Voltaire</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><i>A Snake Charmer</i></td><td align="right">Joan Clement</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><i>A Contortionist</i></td><td align="right">Richard Coolidge</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><i>A Riding Master</i></td><td align="right">Kenneth Lawton</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><i>A Juggler</i></td><td align="right">Francis G. Sadtler</td></tr> +<tr><td><i>Acrobats</i></td> +<td colspan="3"> </td> +<td +style="font-size:200%;vertical-align:30%;">{</td> +<td align="right">Sears Taylor<br /> +Luigi Belastro</td></tr> + +<tr><td align="center" colspan="6"><i>Stage Manager</i>, Philip Loeb <i>Ass't Stage Manager</i>, Oliver Grymes</td></tr> +<tr><td align="center" colspan="6"><i>Produced under the direction of</i> ROBERT MILTON</td></tr> +<tr><td align="center" colspan="6"><i>Settings and Costumes by</i> LEE SIMONSON</td></tr> +</table> + +<p> +<br /> +<br /> +</p> + +<div class="blockquott"><p>"Stage, screen, and amateur rights for the translation and the +original play in all English-speaking countries are owned and +controlled by The Theatre Guild, 65 West 35th St., New York City. +No public readings or performances may be given without their +written consent."</p></div> + +<h2><a name="INTRODUCTION" id="INTRODUCTION"></a>INTRODUCTION</h2> + +<p>L<small>EONID</small> A<small>NDREYEV</small> as a literary figure was born in the gloomy atmosphere +of depression of the 'nineties. He thus appeared upon the literary stage +at a period when the old and splendid generation of Turgenev and +Dostoevsky had already passed away and when Chekhov had begun to +demonstrate before the reader the gloom and colourlessness of Russia +life.</p> + +<p>This was a period when the social forces of Russia were half destroyed +by the reaction under Alexander III, and when the young generation was +trying to rest and to get away from the strain of social hopes and +despair. This period, briefly speaking, was a period of melancholy, of +commonplace, every-day preoccupations, and of dull <i>terre à terre</i> +philosophy.</p> + +<p>It must be borne in mind that literature was the only outlet for the +moral and intellectual forces of Russia. Political reaction, censorship, +complete absence of civil liberties, and the cult of popular ignorance +upon which Czardom based its power, all these made the written artistic +word almost the sole expression of Russian social longings and +idealistic expectations.</p> + +<p>It is therefore only natural that Russian literature in its general +development is closely interwoven with the political and social +conditions of Russia at the given moment. The 'nineties were a period of +depression. After the assassination of Alexander II (1881) and the +subsequent tightening of the chain of reaction, combined with a general +<i>débâcle</i> in progressive and radical circles, the Russian intellectual +fell into a state of pessimism. His faith in an early liberation was +shattered, his hope of recovery was broken. Chekhov is the most +characteristic representative of that period; he himself called his +heroes "the dull-grey people."</p> + +<p>Maxim Gorki and Leonid Andreyev appeared almost simultaneously at that +time. The former brought the message of a rebel spirit which forecast a +new moral upheaval, a new social protest; the latter appeared clad in +the gloom of his time, which he strangely combined with a spirit of +almost anarchistic revolt. From the point of view of historical +completeness Leonid Andreyev is more representative of the epoch, +demonstrating at once two contradictory elements of the Russia of the +'nineties: lack or even absence of faith interwoven with protest and +mutiny.</p> + +<p>Andreyev is symbolic and romantic. Her Majesty Fate and His Excellency +Accident, these are the two dark, unknown, at times brutal forces which +dwelt ever before the mind's eye. His symbols are full of horror and at +times unbending atrocity. Beginning with his short stories, In Fog, The +Life of Basil of Thebes, through his dramas, The Life of Man, and +Anathema, until his last writings, he saw human beings in the form of +ghosts and ghosts in the form of human beings dominating every step, +every breath of life. Still his gruesome symbolism, despite his genius +for rendering his images in a clear-cut, almost crystalline manner, did +not appeal to many of his contemporaries because the dark shroud in +which Andreyev enveloped life was impenetrable and at times it was +impossible to discern in that gloom the few values which Andreyev still +found in life. Leo Tolstoy said once: "Leonid Andreyev tries to frighten +me, but I am not afraid."</p> + +<p>Even in his splendid realistic dramas it is difficult for Andreyev to +rid himself of the habit of symbolizing and dimming the few rays of +light which try to filter through.</p> + +<p>There was nevertheless a little corner in Andreyev's artistic heart +where there appeared some indefinite hope which never acquired a +specific artistic form, but which was alluded to many times in his +writings. In his short story, Thought, he makes fragmentary allusions to +his half-hope, half-idea: "If the lot of the Man be to become a God, his +throne will be the Book," says the hero.</p> + +<p>But the red laugh of the Russo-Japanese war, the abortive revolution of +1905, the general ignorance and darkness of the masses, the strain of +the last war, the depreciation of human life as a value in itself, +brought Leonid Andreyev to the last step of the pessimistic ladder which +he was ever descending into the abyss of hopelessness. This state of +mind is best illustrated by his last dramatic work, <span class="smcap">He</span>, the One Who Gets +Slapped.</p> + +<p>Here we see a man of high education, of great intellectual achievement, +who leaves life, willingly in appearance, but forcibly in fact. The +relations of man to man, of group to group, according to Andreyev are +such that the Man is forced to efface himself. Even Thought, or the +Book, could not help the Man to become a God. He becomes a clown. He +performs stunts, he gets slaps; the public laughs, being unaware that +this laughter is a mockery at itself, at its culture, at its thought, at +its achievement.</p> + +<p>The characters of the play, as the reader will see, are depicted with a +bitter sarcasm and unfriendliness, for Andreyev seems to have lost his +last faith in the Man. The good, the innocent and clean heart is bound +to suffer and die. His Consuelo, Zinida, Bezano are only stray rays of +light out of place in the world and even in the world-circus which is +full of spiders, champagne, and human outcasts. Andreyev does not blame +these outcasts. On the contrary, he feels sympathy, if for anybody, for +just these clowns, jugglers, and bareback-riders; but life, this +strange combination of fate, accident, and cowardly slander, is +stronger, and they collapse under the burden of this combination.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span> is perhaps the best work of Andreyev, at any rate his best dramatic +work. It is more adapted to stage conditions than his previous plays and +is not overcrowded with symbolic ghosts. Furthermore, <span class="smcap">He</span> is a remarkable +summary of Andreyev's philosophy.</p> + +<p class="r">G<small>REGORY</small> Z<small>ILBOORG</small></p> + +<p> +<br /> +<br /> +</p> + +<p class="cb">HE WHO GETS SLAPPED<a name="page_002" id="page_002"></a></p> + +<p> +<br /> +<br /> +</p> + +<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" summary=""> +<tr><td align="center">CAST OF CHARACTERS</td></tr> +<tr><td> </td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span>—<i>a bareback rider in a circus</i>. <i>Billed as "The Bareback Tango Queen."</i></td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span>—<i>Consuelo's father</i>.</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap">He</span>—<i>a clown in Briquet's circus</i>. <i>Billed as "HE Who Gets Slapped."</i></td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span>—<i>Manager of the circus</i>.</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span>—<i>a lion tamer, Briquet's wife</i>.</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Alfred Bezano</span>—<i>a bareback rider</i>.</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap">A Gentleman.</span></td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Baron Regnard.</span></td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span>—<i>a clown</i>.</td></tr> +<tr valign="middle"><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Tilly</span><span style="vertical-align: -1.75em;"><span style="font-size:200%">}</span>—<i>musical clowns</i>.</span><br /> +<span class="smcap">Polly</span></td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><span class="smcap">Thomas</span>, <span class="smcap">Angelica</span>, <i>and other actors and actresses of Briquet's circus</i>.</td></tr> +<tr><td> </td></tr> +<tr><td><i>The action takes place in one of the large cities of France.</i><a name="page_003" id="page_003"></a></td></tr> + +</table> + +<p> +<br /> +<br /> +</p> + +<p class="cb">HE WHO GETS SLAPPED</p> + +<h2><a name="ACT_I" id="ACT_I"></a>ACT I</h2> + +<p><i>A very large, rather dirty room, with whitewashed walls. To the left, +in a niche, is a window, the only outside window in the room, opening on +a court-yard. The light from it is so dim that even by day the +electricity has to be turned on.</i></p> + +<p><i>At the very top of the centre-back wall is a row of small dusty +windows. They open on the circus hall. At night, when the performance is +going on, a bright light shines through. By day they are dark. In the +same wall is a large white door, reached by two stone steps, and nailed +fast.</i></p> + +<p><i>On the right, almost in the corner, is a high, wide, arched doorway +which leads to the stables and the ring. By day it opens into pale +darkness, at night into pale light.</i></p> + +<p><i>The room is used for many purposes. It is the office of Papa Briquet, +manager of the circus; here he keeps his little desk. It is the +cloak-room of some of the actors. It is also the room where the cast +gathers between calls, during rehearsals or performances. Again, it is a +check-room for used circus property, such as gilt<a name="page_004" id="page_004"></a> armchairs, scenery +for pantomimes, and other wares of the circus household. The walls are +covered with circus announcements and glaring posters.</i></p> + +<p><i>The time is morning. In the circus hall a rehearsal is going on, and +preparations are being made for the evening performance. As the curtain +goes up, the cracking whip and the shouts of the riding-master are heard +from the ring. The stage is empty for a few seconds, then enter Tilly +and Polly, the musical clowns, practising a new march. Playing on tiny +pipes, they step from the dark doorway to the window. Their music is +agreeable to the ear, but small, mincing, artificially clown-like, like +their mincing steps; they wear jackets and resemble each other; same +smooth-shaven face, same height; Tilly, the younger, has a scarf around +his neck; both have their derbies on the backs of their heads. Tilly +glances through the window, then they turn about, still marching.</i></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Polly</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Interrupting the march</i>]: Stop, you're out again! Now, listen—[<i>He +stands close to Tilly and plays into his face. Tilly absent-mindedly +listens, scratching his nose.</i>] There! Come on now! [<i>They resume their +music and marching. As they reach the door they meet the manager and</i> +<span class="smcap">Mancini</span>; <i>the latter walks behind the manager, and is gnawing at the +knob of his goldmounted<a name="page_005" id="page_005"></a> cane</i>. <span class="smcap">Count Mancini</span> <i>is tall and slight. The +seams of his clothes are worn and he keeps his coat buttoned tight. He +assumes extremely graceful manners, takes affected poses, and has a +special fondness for toying with his cane, with aristocratic +stylishness. When he laughs, which happens often, his thin sharp face +takes on a marked resemblance to a satyr. The manager</i>, <span class="smcap">"Papa" Briquet</span>, +<i>is a stout quiet man of average height</i>. <i>His bearing is hesitant. The +clowns make room for the gentlemen. The manager looks questioningly at +the older man.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Polly</span></p> + +<p>[<i>With an affected accent</i>]: Our moosic for the pantomime! The March of +the Ants!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Ha! Yes!</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>The gentlemen walk in. The clowns resume their music</i>, <span class="smcap">Polly</span> +<i>marching on, then turning, the younger following.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Polly</span></p> + +<p>Papa Briquet, Jack is working very badly to-day.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>What's the matter with him?<a name="page_006" id="page_006"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Polly</span></p> + +<p>He has a sore throat. You'd better take a look at him.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>All right. Come on, Jack. Open your mouth! Wider—wider. [<i>Turns clown's +face to the light near the window and examines him closely and +seriously.</i>] Just smear it with iodine.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Polly</span></p> + +<p>I told him so. I said it was nothing! Oh! Come on. [<i>They go away +playing, marching, practising their funny mincing steps. The manager +sits down.</i> <span class="smcap">Mancini</span> <i>strikes a pose by the wall, smiling ironically.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>So. You give them medical treatment, too! Look out, Papa Briquet, you +have no licence.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Just a little advice. They're all so afraid for their lives.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>His throat is simply burnt with whiskey. These<a name="page_007" id="page_007"></a> two fellows get drunk +every night. I am amazed, Papa Briquet, to see you pay so little +attention to their morals. [<i>He laughs.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>You make me sick, Mancini.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Count Mancini is at your service!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>You make me sick, Count Mancini. You poke your nose into everything, you +disturb the artists in their work. Some day you'll get a thrashing, and +I warn you that I shan't interfere.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>As a man of superior associations and education I cannot be expected to +treat your actors as my equals! What more can you ask, Briquet? You see +that I do you the honour of speaking with you quite familiarly, quite +simply.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Ha! ha! ha! [<i>Slightly threatening</i>] Really!—<a name="page_008" id="page_008"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Never mind my joke. What if they did dare attack me—ever seen this, +Briquet? [<i>He draws a stiletto out of his cane and advances it +silently.</i>] Useful little thing. By the way, you have no idea of the +discovery I made yesterday in a suburb. Such a girl! [<i>Laughs.</i>] Oh, +well! all right, all right—I know you don't like that sort of sport. +But look here, you must give me a hundred francs!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Not a sou.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Then I'll take away Consuelo—that's all——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Your daily threat!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Yes, my threat! And you would do the same, if you were as shamefully +hard up as I am. Now look here, you know as well as I do that I have to +live up to my name somehow, keep up the family reputation. Just because +the tide of ill-fortune which struck my ancestors compelled me to make +my daughter, the<a name="page_009" id="page_009"></a> Countess Veronica, a bareback rider—to keep us from +starving—do you understand—you heartless idiot!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>You chase the girls too much! Some day you'll land in jail, Mancini!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>In jail? Oh, no! Why, I have to uphold our <i>name</i>, the splendour of my +family, [<i>laughs</i>] haven't I? The Mancinis are known all over Italy for +their love of girls—just girls! Is it my fault if I must pay such crazy +prices for what my ancestors got free of charge? You're nothing but an +ass, a <i>parvenu</i> ass. How can you understand Family Traditions? I don't +drink—I stopped playing cards after that accident—no, you need not +smile. Now if I give up the girls, what will be left of Mancini? Only a +coat of arms, that's all—— In the name of family traditions, +give me a hundred francs!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>I told you no, I won't.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>You know that I leave half of the salary for Consuelo<a name="page_010" id="page_010"></a>—but—perhaps you +think I do not love my child—my only daughter, all that remains to me +as a memory of her sainted mother—what cruelty! [<i>Pretends to cry, +wipes his eyes with a small and dirty lace handkerchief, embroidered +with a coronet.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Why don't you say, rather, that she is foolish enough to give you half +her salary. You make me sick——</p> + +<p>[<i>Enter Zinida, the lion tamer; burningly beautiful, her self-confident, +commanding gestures at first glance give an impression of languor. She +is</i> <span class="smcap">Briquet's</span> <i>unmarried wife.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>[<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Mancini</span>]: Good morning.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Madame Zinida! This barbarian, this brute may pierce me with his dagger, +but I cannot control the expression of my love! [<i>Kneels facetiously +before her</i>] Madame! Count Mancini has the honour of asking you to be +his wife....</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>[<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Briquet</span>]: Money?<a name="page_011" id="page_011"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Yes.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Don't give him any. [<i>Sits down wearily on a torn sofa, shuts her eyes. +<span class="smcap">Mancini</span> gets up and wipes his knees.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Duchess! Don't be cruel. I am no lion, no tiger, no savage beast which +you are accustomed to tame. I am merely a poor domestic animal, who +wants, miaow, miaow, a little green grass.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Without opening her eyes</i>]: Jim tells me you have a teacher for +Consuelo. What for?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>The solicitude of a father, duchess, the solicitude and the tireless +anxiety of a loving heart. The extreme misfortunes of our family, when I +was a child, have left some flaws in her education. Friends, the +daughter of Count Mancini, Countess Veronica, can barely read! Is that +admissible? And you, Briquet, heartless brute, you still ask why I need +money!<a name="page_012" id="page_012"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Artful!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>What are you teaching her?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Everything. A student had been giving her lessons, but I threw him out +yesterday. He had the nerve to fall in love with Consuelo and stood +there miaowing at the door like a cat. Everything, Briquet, that you +don't know—literature, mythology, orthography——</p> + +<p>[<i>Two young actresses appear, with small fur coats thrown over their +light dresses. They are tired and sit down in the corner.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>I do not wish my daughter——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Artful!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>You are stupid, Mancini. What do you do it for? [<i>In a didactic tone</i>] +You are fearfully stupid, Mancini. Why does she need to learn? Since she +is here<a name="page_013" id="page_013"></a> she need never know anything about that life. Don't you +understand? What is geography? If I were the government I would forbid +artists to read books. Let them read the posters, that's enough.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>During</i> <span class="smcap">Briquet's</span> <i>speech, the two clowns and another actor +enter. They sit down wearily.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Right now, your Consuelo is an excellent artist, but just as soon as you +teach her mythology, and she begins to read, she'll become a nuisance, +she'll be corrupted, and then she'll go and poison herself. I know those +books, I've read 'em myself. All they teach is corruption, and how to +kill oneself.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">First Actress</span></p> + +<p>I love the novels that come out in the newspaper.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>That shows what a foolish girl you are. You'll be done for in no time. +Believe me, my friends, we must forget entirely what is happening out +there. How can we understand all that goes on there?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>You are an enemy of enlightenment, you are an obscurantist, Briquet.<a name="page_014" id="page_014"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>And you are stupid. You are from out there. What has it taught you? +[<i>The actors laugh.</i>] If you'd been born in a circus as I was, you'd +know something. Enlightenment is plain nonsense—nothing else. Ask +Zinida. She knows everything they teach out there—geography, +mythology—— Does it make her any happier? You tell them, dear.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Leave me alone, Louis.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Angrily</i>]: Oh! Go to the devil! When I listen to your asinine +philosophy, I'd like to skin you for more than a paltry hundred +francs—for two hundred—for a thousand. Great God! What an ass of a +manager! Yes, right before every one of them I want to say that you are +a stingy old skinflint—that you pay starvation wages. I'll make you +give Consuelo a raise of a hundred francs. Listen, all you honest +vagabonds, tell me—who is it draws the crowd that fills the circus +every night? You? a couple of musical donkeys? Tigers, lions? Nobody +cares for those hungry cats!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Leave the tigers alone.<a name="page_015" id="page_015"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Beg your pardon, Zinida. I did not mean to hurt your feelings—honestly. +I really marvel at your furious audacity—at your grace—you are a +heroine—I kiss your tiny hands. But what do they understand about +heroism? [<i>An orchestra softly plays the Tango in the circus. He +continues with enthusiasm.</i>] Hear! hear! Now tell me, honest vagabonds, +who but Consuelo and Bezano draws the crowds! That Tango on +horseback—it is—it is—— Oh, the devil! Even his fatuousness +the Pope could not withstand its lure.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Polly</span></p> + +<p>True! It's a great trick—wasn't the idea Bezano's?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Idea! Idea! The lad's in love, like a cat—that's the idea. What's the +good of an idea without a woman! You wouldn't dance very far with your +idea alone, eh, Papa Briquet?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>We have a contract.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Such base formalities.<a name="page_016" id="page_016"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Give him ten francs and let him go.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Ten! Never! <i>Fifteen!</i> Don't be stubborn, Papa. For the traditions of my +house—twenty. I swear—on my honour—I can't do with less. [<span class="smcap">Briquet</span> +<i>hands him twenty francs. Nonchalantly</i>] <i>Merci.</i> Thanks.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Why don't you take it from your baron?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Raising his eyebrows haughtily, quite indignant</i>]: From the Baron? +Woman! who do you think I am that I should be beholden to a stranger?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>You're plotting something artful. I know you very little, but I guess +you're an awful scoundrel.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Laughs</i>]: Such an insult from such beautiful lips.</p> + +<p>[<i>Enter an "artist," apparently an athlete.</i>]<a name="page_017" id="page_017"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Athlete</span></p> + +<p>Papa Briquet, there's a gentleman from beyond the grave asking for you.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Actress</span></p> + +<p>A ghost?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Athlete</span></p> + +<p>No. He seems alive. Did you ever see a drunken ghost?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>If he's drunk, tell him I'm out, Thomas. Does he want to see me or the +Count?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Athlete</span></p> + +<p>No, you. Maybe he's not drunk, but just a ghost.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Draws himself together, puffs up</i>]: A society man?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Athlete</span></p> + +<p>Yes. I'll tell him to come in.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>One hears the whip cracking in the ring. The Tango<a name="page_018" id="page_018"></a> sounds very +low and distant—then comes nearer—louder. Silence.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Touching</i> <span class="smcap">Zinida's</span> <i>arm</i>]: Tired?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Drawing back a little</i>]: No.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Polly</span></p> + +<p>Your red lion is nervous to-day, Zinida!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>You shouldn't tease him.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Polly</span></p> + +<p>I played a melody from Traviata for him. And he sang with me. Wouldn't +that be a good trick to stage, Papa Briquet?</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<span class="smcap">Thomas</span> <i>brings in the gentleman, points out the manager, and goes +heavily away. The gentleman is not young, and he is ugly, but his +rather strange face is bold and lively. He wears an expensive +overcoat, with a fur collar, and holds his hat and gloves in his +hand.</i>]</p></div> + +<p><a name="page_019" id="page_019"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Bowing and smiling</i>]: Have I the pleasure of addressing the manager?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Yes. Won't you sit down, please? Tilly, bring a chair.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>Oh! Don't trouble. [<i>Looks around.</i>] These are your artists? Very +glad——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Straightening and bowing slightly</i>]: Count Mancini.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Surprised</i>]: Count?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Indignantly</i>]: Yes, Count. And whom have I the honour of——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>I don't quite know myself—yet. As a rule you<a name="page_020" id="page_020"></a> choose your own names, +don't you? I have not chosen yet. Later you might advise me about it. I +have an idea already, but I am afraid it sounds too much like +literature—you know.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Literature?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>Yes! Too sophisticated. [<i>They all look surprised.</i>] I presume these two +gentlemen are clowns? I am so glad. May I shake hands with them? +[<i>Stands up and shakes hands with clowns, who make silly faces.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Excuse me—but what can I do for you?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>[<i>With the same pleasant, confident smile</i>]: Oh. You do something for +me? No. I want to do something for you, Papa Briquet.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p><i>Papa</i> Briquet? But you don't look like——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Reassuringly</i>]: It's all right. I shall become "like." These two +gentlemen just made remarkable<a name="page_021" id="page_021"></a> faces. Would you like to see me imitate +them? Look! [<i>He makes the same silly faces as the clowns.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Yes! [<i>Involuntarily</i>] You are not drunk, sir?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>No. I don't drink as a rule. Do I look drunk?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Polly</span></p> + +<p>A little.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>No—I don't drink. It is a peculiarity of my talent.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Familiarly</i>]: Where did you work before? Juggler?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>No. But I am glad you feel in me a comrade, Papa Briquet. Unfortunately +I am not a juggler, and have worked nowhere—I am—just so.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>But you look like a society man.<a name="page_022" id="page_022"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>Oh, you flatter me, Count. I am just so.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Well, what do you want? You see I am obliged to tell you that everything +is taken.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>That's immaterial. I want to be a clown, if you will allow me. [<i>Some of +the actors smile</i>, <span class="smcap">Briquet</span> <i>begins to grow angry</i>.]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>But what can you do? You're asking too much. What can you do?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>Why! Nothing! Isn't that funny! I can't do a thing.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>No, it's not funny. Any scoundrel knows that much.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Rather helpless, but still smiling and looking around</i>]: We can invent +something——<a name="page_023" id="page_023"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Ironically</i>]: From literature?</p> + +<p>[<i>The clown Jackson enters slowly without being noticed by the others. +He stands behind the gentlemen.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>Yes, one can find something literary, too. A nice little speech for +instance on, let's say, a religious topic. Something like a debate among +the clowns.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>A debate! The devil! This is no academy.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Sadly</i>]: I am very sorry. Something else then. Perhaps a joke about +the creation of the world and its rulers?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>What about the police? No, no—nothing like that!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Coming forward</i>]: The rulers of the world? You don't like them? I +don't either. Shake.<a name="page_024" id="page_024"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Introducing</i>]: Our chief clown, the famous Jackson.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Enthusiastically</i>]: Great heavens—you! Allow me to shake hands with +you heartily! You, with your genius, you have given me so much joy!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>I'm glad indeed!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Shrugs his shoulders; to Jackson</i>]: He wants to be a clown! Look him +over, Jim.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>Jackson makes a motion at which the gentleman hurriedly removes +his coat and throws it on a chair. He is ready for the examination. +Jackson turns him round, looking him over critically.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>Clown? Hm! Turn round then. Clown? Yes? Now smile. Wider—broader—do +you call that a smile? So—that's better. There is something, yes—but +for full developments—— [<i>Sadly</i>]: Probably you can't even turn a +somersault?<a name="page_025" id="page_025"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Sighs</i>]: No.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>How old are you?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>Thirty-nine. Too late? [<i>Jackson moves away with a whistle. There is a +silence.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Softly</i>]: Take him.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Indignant</i>]: What the hell shall I do with him if he doesn't know a +thing? He's drunk!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>Honestly I am not. Thank you for your support, Madame. Are you not the +famous Zinida, the lion tamer, whose regal beauty and audacity——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Yes. But I do not like flattery.<a name="page_026" id="page_026"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>It is not flattery.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>You are evidently not accustomed to good society, my dear. Flattery? +This gentleman expresses his admiration in sincere and beautiful +words—and you—you are not educated, Zinida. As for myself——</p> + +<p>[<i>Enter <span class="smcap">Consuelo</span> and <span class="smcap">Bezano</span> in circus costume.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>You here, Daddy?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Yes, my child, you are not tired? [<i>Kisses her on the forehead.</i>] My +daughter, sir, Countess Veronica. Known on the stage as Consuelo, The +Bareback Tango Queen. Did you ever see her?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>I have enjoyed her work. It is marvellous!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Yes! Of course. Everyone admits it. And how do you like the name, +Consuelo? I took it from the novel of George Sand. It means +"Consolation."<a name="page_027" id="page_027"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>What a wonderful knowledge of books!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>A small thing. Despite your strange intention, I can see, sir, that you +are a gentleman. My peer! Let me explain to you, that only the strange +and fatal misfortunes of our ancient family—"<i>sic transit gloria +mundi</i>," sir.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>It's a bore, Daddy—— Where's my handkerchief, Alfred?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>Here it is.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Showing the handkerchief to the gentleman</i>]: Genuine Venetian. Do you +like it?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Again bowing</i>]: My eyes are dazzled, how beautiful! Papa Briquet, the +more I look around me the more I want to stay with you. [<i>Makes the face +of a simpleton.</i>] On the one hand a count, on the other——<a name="page_028" id="page_028"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Nods approval</i>]: That's not bad. Look here, think a bit—find +something. Everyone here thinks for himself.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>Silence. The gentleman stands with a finger on his forehead, +thinking.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>Find something—find something ... Eureka!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Polly</span></p> + +<p>That means <i>found</i>. Come!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>Eureka—— I shall be among you, he who gets slapped. [<i>General +laughter. Even</i> <span class="smcap">Briquet</span> <i>smiles</i>.]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>[Looks at them smiling]: You see I made even you laugh—is that easy? +[<i>All grow serious. Polly sighs.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Tilly</span></p> + +<p>No, it's not easy. Did you laugh, Polly?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Polly</span></p> + +<p>Sure, a lot. Did you?<a name="page_029" id="page_029"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Tilly</span></p> + +<p>I did. [<i>Imitating an instrument, he plays with his lips a melody at +once sad and gay.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>"He Who Gets Slapped," that's not bad.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>It's not, is it? I rather like it myself. It suits my talent. And +comrades, I have even found a name—you'll call me "<span class="smcap">He</span>." Is that all +right?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Thinking</i>]: "<span class="smcap">He</span>"—Not bad.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>In a singing, melodic voice</i>]: "<span class="smcap">He</span>" is so funny—"<span class="smcap">He</span>"—like a dog. +Daddy, are there such dogs?</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>Jackson suddenly gives a circus slap to the gentleman. HE steps +back and grows pale.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>What!—[<i>General laughter covers his exclamation.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span> Who Gets Slapped. Or didn't you get it?<a name="page_030" id="page_030"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Polly</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Comically</i>]: He says he wants more—— [<i>The gentleman smiles, rubbing +his cheek.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>So sudden.—Without waiting.—How funny—you didn't hurt me, and yet my +cheek burns.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>Again there is loud laughter. The clowns cackle like ducks, hens, +cocks; they bark.</i> <span class="smcap">Zinida</span> <i>says something to</i> <span class="smcap">Briquet</span>, <i>casts a +glance toward</i> <span class="smcap">Bezano</span>, <i>and goes out</i>. <span class="smcap">Mancini</span> <i>assumes a bored air +and looks at his watch</i>. <i>The two actresses go out.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>Take him, Papa Briquet—he will push us.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Again looking at his watch</i>]: But bear in mind, that Papa Briquet is +as close as Harpagon. If you expect to get good money here you are +mistaken. [<i>HE laughs.</i>] A slap? What's a slap? Worth only small change, +a franc and a half a dozen. Better go back to society; you will make +more money there. Why for one slap, just a light tap, you might say, my +friend, Marquis Justi, was paid fifty thousand lire!<a name="page_031" id="page_031"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Shut up, Mancini. Will you take care of him, Jackson.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>I can.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Polly</span></p> + +<p>Do you like music? A Beethoven sonata played on a broom, for instance, +or Mozart on a bottle?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Alas! No. But I will be exceedingly grateful if you will teach me. A +clown! My childhood's dream. When all my school friends were thrilled by +Plutarch's heroes, or the light of science—I dreamed of clowns. +Beethoven on a broom, Mozart on bottles! Just what I have sought all my +life! Friends, I must have a costume!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>I see you don't know much! A costume [<i>putting his finger on his +forehead</i>] is a thing which calls for deep thought. Have you seen my Sun +here? [<i>Strikes his posterior.</i>] I looked for it two years.<a name="page_032" id="page_032"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Enthusiastically</i>]: I shall think!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>It is time for me to go. Consuelo, my child, you must get dressed. [<i>To +HE.</i>] We are lunching with Baron Regnard, a friend of mine, a banker.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>But I don't want to go, Daddy. Alfred says I must rehearse to-day.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Horrified, holding up his hands</i>]: Child, think of me, and what a +situation you put me in! I promised the Baron, the Baron expects us. +Why, it is impossible! Oh, I am in a cold sweat.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Alfred says——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Drily</i>]: She has to work. Are you rested? Then come on.<a name="page_033" id="page_033"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>But—the devil take me if I know what to make of it. Hey, Bezano, +bareback rider! Are you crazy? I gave you permission for Art's sake, to +exercise my daughter's talent—and you——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Go along, Papa, and don't be so silly. We've got to work, haven't we? +Have lunch along with your Baron. And Daddy, you forgot to take a clean +handkerchief again, and I washed two for you yesterday. Where did you +put them?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Ashamed, blushing</i>]: Why, my linen is washed by the laundress, and +you, Consuelo, are still playing with toys. It is stupid! You're a +chatter-box. You don't think. These gentlemen might imagine Heaven knows +what. How stupid. I'm off.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Do you want me to write him a little note?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Angrily</i>]: A little note? Your little notes would make a horse laugh! +Good-bye.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>He goes out toying angrily with his cane. The<a name="page_034" id="page_034"></a> clowns follow him +respectfully, playing a funeral march. HE and</i> <span class="smcap">Jackson</span> <i>laugh. The +actors disappear one by one.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Laughing</i>]: Do I really write so badly? And I love so to write. Did +you like my note, Alfred—or did you laugh, too?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Blushing</i>]: No, I did not. Come on, Consuelo.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>They go, and meet</i> <span class="smcap">Zinida</span>, <i>entering. Consuelo passes on.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Are you going back to work, <span class="smcap">Bezano</span>?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Politely</i>]: Yes. To-day is a very bad day. How are your lions, Zinida? +I think the weather affects them.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>From the ring</i>]: Alfred!<a name="page_035" id="page_035"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Yes. Some one is calling you. You'd better go. [<i>Alfred goes out. To</i> +<span class="smcap">Briquet</span>] Are you finished?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Right away.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>Then good-bye till evening. Think about your costume, <span class="smcap">He</span>, and I shall +look for some idea, too. Be here at ten to-morrow. Don't be late, or +you'll get another slap. And I'll work with you.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>I shall not be late. [<i>He looks after</i> <span class="smcap">Jackson</span> <i>who goes out.</i>] Must be +a nice man. All the people about you are so nice, Papa Briquet. I +suppose that good-looking bareback rider is in love with Consuelo, isn't +he? [<i>Laughs.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>It's none of your business. For a newcomer you go poking your nose too +far. How much does he want, Papa?<a name="page_036" id="page_036"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Just a minute. See here <span class="smcap">He</span>. I don't want to make a contract with you.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Just as you please. Do you know what? Don't let us talk about money. You +are an honest fellow, Briquet; you will see what my work is worth to +you, and then——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Pleased</i>]: Now that's very nice of you. Zinida, the man really doesn't +know anything.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Well, do as he suggests. Now we must write it down. Where's the book?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Here. [<i>To HE</i>.] I don't like to write [<i>gives book to</i> <span class="smcap">Zinida</span>], but we +have to put down the names of the actors, you know—it's police +regulations. Then if anyone kills himself, or——</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>Again comes the sound of the Tango, and calls from the ring.</i>]</p></div> + +<p><a name="page_037" id="page_037"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>What is your name?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Smiling</i>]: <span class="smcap">He.</span> I chose it, you know. Or don't you like it?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>We like it all right—but we have to have your real name. Have you a +passport?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Confused</i>]: A passport? No, I have none. Or, rather, yes. I have +something of the kind, but I had no idea the rules were strictly +enforced here. What do you need papers for?</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<span class="smcap">Zinida</span> <i>and</i> <span class="smcap">Briquet</span> <i>look at each other</i>. <span class="smcap">Zinida</span> <i>pushes the book +aside</i>.]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Then we can't take you. We cannot quarrel with the police, just on your +account.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>She is my wife. I hadn't told you. She's right. You might get hurt by a +horse, or hurt yourself—or<a name="page_038" id="page_038"></a> do something. We don't know you, you see. I +personally don't care, but out there, it's different, you see. For me a +corpse is just a corpse—and I don't ask anything about him. It's up to +God or the Devil. But they—they're too curious. Well, I suppose it's +necessary for order. I don't know—— Got a card?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Rubs his head, thinking</i>]: What shall I do? I have my card, but +[<i>smiles</i>] you understand that I don't want my name to be known.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Some story, hey?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Yes, something like that. Why can't you imagine that I have no name? +Can't I lose it as I might lose my hat? Or let someone else take it by +mistake? When a stray dog comes to you, you don't ask his name—you +simply give him another. Let me be that dog. [<i>Laughing</i>] <span class="smcap">He</span>—the Dog!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Why don't you tell us your name, just the two of us. Nobody else need +know it. Unless you should break your neck——<a name="page_039" id="page_039"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Hesitates</i>]: Honestly? [<span class="smcap">Zinida</span> <i>shrugs her shoulders</i>.]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Where people are honest, their word is good. One sees you come from <i>out +there</i>.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>All right. But please, don't be surprised. [<i>Gives</i> <span class="smcap">Zinida</span> <i>his card. +She looks at it, then hands it to</i> <span class="smcap">Briquet</span>, <i>then both look at HE</i>.]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>If it is true, sir, that you are really what is written here——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>For heaven's sake—for heaven's sake—this does not exist, but was lost +long ago; it is just a check for an old hat. I pray you to forget it, as +I have. I am <span class="smcap">He</span> Who Gets Slapped—nothing else. [<i>Silence.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>I beg your pardon, sir, but I must ask you again, I must humbly ask +you—are you not drunk, sir? There is something in your +eye—something——<a name="page_040" id="page_040"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>No, no. I am He, Who Gets Slapped. Since when do you speak to me like +this, Papa Briquet? You offend me.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>After all, it's his business, Briquet. [<i>She hides the card.</i>] Truly you +are a strange man. [<i>Smiles.</i>] And you have already noticed that Bezano +is in love with the horse-girl? And that I love my Briquet, did you +notice that, too?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Also smiling</i>]: Oh, yes. You adore him.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>I adore him. Now go with him, Briquet, show him the ring and the +stables—I have something to write.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Yes, yes, please. I am so happy. At last you have taken me, haven't you? +It is true—you're not joking. The circus, the tan-bark, the ring in +which I shall run getting my slaps. Yes, yes, Briquet, let's go. Until I +feel the sawdust under my feet, I shall not believe it.<a name="page_041" id="page_041"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>All right then. [<i>Kisses</i> <span class="smcap">Zinida</span>.] Come on.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Just a minute—<span class="smcap">He</span>! Answer me a question. I have a man who takes care of +the cages, a plain fellow whom nobody knows. He just cleans the cages +you know; he walks in and out whenever he wants to, without even looking +at the lions, as if he were perfectly at home. Why is that so? Nobody +knows him, everybody knows me, everyone is afraid for me, while—— And +he is such a silly man—you will see him. [<i>Laughs.</i>] But don't you +think of entering the cage yourself! My red one would give you such a +slap!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Displeased</i>]: There you are again, Zinida—stop it.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Laughs</i>]: All right—go. Oh yes, Louis, send me Bezano. I have to +settle an account with him.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<span class="smcap">He</span> <i>and the director go out</i>. <span class="smcap">Zinida</span> <i>looks at the card once more, +then hides it. She gets up and walks quickly up and down the room. +She stops<a name="page_042" id="page_042"></a> to listen to the Tango, which ends abruptly. Then she +stands motionless, looking straight at the dark opening of the door +through which</i> <span class="smcap">Bezano</span> <i>comes</i>.]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Entering</i>]: You called me, Zinida? What do you want? Tell me quickly, +I have no time——</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<span class="smcap">Zinida</span> <i>looks at him silently</i>. <span class="smcap">Bezano</span> <i>flushes with anger, and +knits his eyebrows. He turns to the door to go.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Bezano!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Stops, without looking up</i>]: What do you want? I have no time.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Bezano! I keep hearing people say that you are in love with Consuelo. Is +it true?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Shrugging his shoulders</i>]: We work well together.<a name="page_043" id="page_043"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Takes a step forward</i>]: No—— Tell me, Alfred, do you love her?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Flushes like a boy, but looks straight into</i> <span class="smcap">Zinida's</span> <i>eyes. +Proudly</i>]: I do not love anybody. No, I love nobody. How can I? +Consuelo? She is here to-day, gone to-morrow, if her father should take +her away. And I? Who am I? An acrobat, the son of a Milanese +shoemaker—— She! I cannot even talk about it. Like my horses I have no +words. Who am I to love?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Do you love me? A little?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>No. I told you before.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Still no? Not even a little?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>[<i>After a silence</i>]: I am afraid of you.<a name="page_044" id="page_044"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Wants to cry out, indignantly, but masters herself and lowers her +eyes, as if in an effort to shut out their light; turns pale</i>]: Am I ... +so terrifying a woman——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>You are beautiful, like a queen. You are almost as beautiful as +Consuelo. But I don't like your eyes. Your eyes command me to love +you—and I don't like to be commanded. I am afraid of you.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Do I command, Bezano? No—only implore.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>Then why not look at me straight? Now I have it. You know yourself that +your eyes cannot implore. [<i>Laughs.</i>] Your lions have spoiled you.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>My red lion loves me——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>Never! If he loves you, why is he so sad?<a name="page_045" id="page_045"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Yesterday he was licking my hands like a dog.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>And this morning he was looking for you to devour you. He thrusts out +his muzzle and looks out, as if he sees only you. He is afraid of you, +and he hates you. Or do you want me to lick your hands too, like a dog?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>No, Alfred, but I—I want to kiss <i>your</i> hand. [<i>With passion</i>]: Give it +to me!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Severely</i>]: I am ashamed to listen to you when you speak like that.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Controlling herself</i>]: One should not torture another as you torture +me. Alfred, I love you. No, I do not command. Look into my eyes—— <i>I +love you.</i> [<i>Silence.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Turns to go</i>]: Good-bye.<a name="page_046" id="page_046"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Alfred——</p> + +<p>[<span class="smcap">He</span> <i>appears in the doorway, and stops</i>.]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>Please never tell me any more that you love me. I don't want it. +Otherwise I will quit. You pronounce the word love as if you were +cracking me with your whip. You know it is disgusting——</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>He turns brusquely and goes. Both notice HE</i>; <span class="smcap">Bezano</span>, <i>frowning, +passes out quickly</i>. <span class="smcap">Zinida</span> <i>returns to her place at the desk, with +a proudly indifferent expression</i>.]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Coming in</i>]: I beg your pardon, but I——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>There you are again, poking your nose into everything, <span class="smcap">He</span>. Do you really +want a slap?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Laughing</i>]: No. I simply forgot my overcoat. I didn't hear anything.<a name="page_047" id="page_047"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>I don't care whether you did or not.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>May I take my coat?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Take it if it's yours. Sit down, <span class="smcap">He</span>.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>I am sitting down.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Now tell me <span class="smcap">He</span>, could you love me?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Laughing</i>]: I? I and Love! Look at me, Zinida. Did you ever see a +lover with such a face?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>One can succeed with such a face——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>That's because I am happy—because I lost my hat—because I am drunk—or +perhaps I am not drunk.<a name="page_048" id="page_048"></a> But I feel as dizzy as a young girl at her +first ball. It is so nice here—slap me, I want to play my part. Perhaps +it will awaken love in my heart, too. Love—[<i>as if listening to his own +heart with pretended terror</i>] do you know—I feel it!</p> + +<p>[<i>In the circus the Tango is played again</i>.]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Listening too</i>]: For me?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>No. I don't know. For everyone. [<i>Listens to the music.</i>] Yes, they are +dancing—how beautiful Consuelo is—and how beautiful is the youth. He +has the body of a Greek God; he looks as if he had been modeled by +Praxiteles. Love! Love! [<i>Silence, music.</i>.]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Tell me, <span class="smcap">He</span>——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>At your service, Queen!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span>, what shall I do, to make my lions love me?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Curtain</span><a name="page_049" id="page_049"></a></p> + +<h2><a name="ACT_II" id="ACT_II"></a>ACT II</h2> + +<p><i>The same room, during the evening performance. Occasional music, +laughter, shrieks, and applause are audible. Through the small windows, +back centre, the light is shining.</i></p> + +<p><i>Consuelo and Baron Regnard occupy the stage; Consuelo wears her stage +costume; she sits with her feet on the sofa, a small shawl covering her +shoulders. Before her stands the Baron, a tall stout man in evening +dress, a rose in his button-hole; grasping the ground with feet well +apart, he gazes at her with convex spider-like eyes.</i></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>Is it true that your father, the Count, has introduced you to a certain +Marquis Justi, a very rich man?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Surprised</i>]: No, he is only joking. I have often heard him speak of a +Marquis Justi but I have never seen him——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>And do you know that your father is just a charlatan?<a name="page_050" id="page_050"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Oh! Don't say that—Father is such a dear.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>Did you like the jewels?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Yes, very much. I was very sorry when Father told me I must return them. +He said it would not be nice for me to keep them. I even cried a little +about it.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>Your father is only a beggar and a charlatan.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Oh, no, don't scold him—he loves you so much.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>Let me kiss your hand——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Oh, no, it isn't proper! One may kiss the hand only when one says how do +you do or good-bye. But in the meantime you can't.<a name="page_051" id="page_051"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>Everybody is in love with you, that is why you and your father make such +a fuss about yourselves. Who is that new clown they call <span class="smcap">He</span>? I don't +like him, he's too shrewd a beast.... Is he in love with you, too? I +noticed the way he looked at you....</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Laughing</i>]: Nothing of the kind. He is so funny! He got fifty-two +slaps yesterday. We counted them. Think of it, fifty-two slaps! Father +said, "if they had only been gold pieces."</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>And Bezano, Consuelo.... Do you like him?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Yes, very much. He is so good-looking. He says that Bezano and I are the +most beautiful couple in the world. <span class="smcap">He</span> calls him Adam, and me Eve. But +that's improper, isn't it? <span class="smcap">He</span> is <i>so</i> improper.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>And does <span class="smcap">He</span> speak to you very often?<a name="page_052" id="page_052"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Yes, often.... But I don't understand him. It seems as if he were drunk.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>"Consuelo"!... It means in Spanish ... Consolation. Your father is an +ass.... Consuelo, I love you.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Talk it over with Father.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Angry</i>]: Your father is a swindler and a charlatan. He should be +turned over to the police. Don't you understand that I <i>cannot</i> marry +you?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>But Father says you can....</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>No, I cannot. And what if I shoot myself? Consuelo, silly girl, I love +<a name="page_053" id="page_053"></a>you unbearably ... unbearably, do you understand? I am probably mad ... +and must be taken to a doctor, yanked about, beaten with sticks. Why do +I love you so much, Consuelo?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Then, you'd better marry.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>I have had a hundred women, beauties, but I didn't see them. You are the +first and I don't see any one else. Who strikes man with love, God or +the Devil? The Devil struck me. Let me kiss your hand.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>No. [<i>She thinks a while and sighs.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>Do you think sometimes? What are you thinking about now Consuelo?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>With another sigh</i>]: I don't know why, I just felt sorry for Bezano. +[<i>Sighs again.</i>] He is so nice to me when he teaches me ... and he has +such a tiny little room.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Indignant</i>]: You were there?<a name="page_054" id="page_054"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>No. He told me about it. [<i>Smiling</i>] Do you hear the noise in there? +That's <span class="smcap">He</span> getting slapped. Poor thing ... although I know it doesn't +hurt, it's only make-believe. The intermission is coming soon.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>The</i> <span class="smcap">Baron</span> <i>throws away his cigar, takes two quick steps forward, +and falls on his knees before the girl</i>.]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>Consuelo——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Please, don't. Get up. Please leave my hand alone.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>Consuelo!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Disgusted</i>]: Get up please, it's disgusting—you're so fat.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>The</i> <span class="smcap">Baron</span> <i>gets up. Voices are heard near the door and in the +ring. It is the intermission. The clowns come first, talking +cheerfully and excitedly. He leads them, in his clown's dress, +with<a name="page_055" id="page_055"></a> painted eyebrows and white nose; the others are applauding +him. Voices of the actors calling: "Bravo! <span class="smcap">He</span>." Then come the +actors and actresses, riding-masters, and the rest, all in costume. +<span class="smcap">Zinida</span> is not among them. <span class="smcap">Papa Briquet</span> comes a little later.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Polly</span></p> + +<p>A hundred slaps! Bravo, <span class="smcap">He</span>!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>Not bad, not bad at all. You'll make a career.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Tilly</span></p> + +<p>He was the Professor to-day, and we were the students. Here goes +another! [<i>Gives him a clown's slap. Laughter. All bid good evening to +the <span class="smcap">Baron</span>. He is politely rude to these vagabonds who bore him, and +remains silent. They seem quite used to it. Enter <span class="smcap">Mancini</span>. He is the +same, and with the same cane.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Shaking hands</i>]: What a success, Baron—and think of it—how the crowd +does love slaps. [<i>Whispering</i>] Your knees are dusty, Baron, brush them +off. The floor is very dirty in here. [<i>Aloud</i>] Consuelo,<a name="page_056" id="page_056"></a> dear child, +how do you feel? [<i>Goes over to his daughter. Sound of laughing, +chattering. The waiters from the buffet in the lobby bring in soda and +wine. Consuelo's voice it heard.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>And where is Bezano?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Bows before the</i> <span class="smcap">Baron</span>, <i>affecting intimacy</i>]: <i>You</i> do not recognize +me, Baron?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>Yes I do. You are the clown, <span class="smcap">He</span>.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Yes I am <span class="smcap">He</span> Who Gets Slapped. May I presume to ask you, Baron, did you +get your jewels back?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>What!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>I was asked to return some jewels to you, and I take the liberty of—— +[<i>The</i> <span class="smcap">Baron</span> <i>turns his back on him—<span class="smcap">He</span> laughs loudly</i>.]<a name="page_057" id="page_057"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>Whiskey and soda! Believe me, ladies and gents, <span class="smcap">He</span> will surely make a +career. I am an old clown, and I know the crowd. Why to-day, he even +eclipsed <i>me</i>—and clouds have covered my Sun. [<i>Striking it.</i>] They do +not like puzzles, they want slaps! They are longing for them and +dreaming about them in their homes. Your health, <span class="smcap">He</span>! Another whiskey and +soda! <span class="smcap">He</span> got so many slaps to-day, there would be enough to go round the +whole orchestra!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Tilly</span></p> + +<p>I bet there wouldn't! [<i>To Jackson</i>] Shake!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Polly</span></p> + +<p>I bet there wouldn't—I'll go and count the old mugs.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">A Voice</span></p> + +<p>The orchestra did not laugh——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>Because they were getting it, but the galleries did, because they were +looking at the orchestra getting slapped. Your health, <span class="smcap">He</span>!<a name="page_058" id="page_058"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Your's Jim! Tell me, why didn't you let me finish my speech—I was just +getting a good start.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Seriously</i>]: My friend, because your speech was a sacrilege. +Politics—all right. Manners—as much as you want. But Providence—leave +it in peace. And believe me, friend, I shut your mouth in time. Didn't +I, Papa Briquet?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Coming nearer</i>]: Yes. It was too much like literature. This is not an +academy. You forget yourself, <span class="smcap">He</span>.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Tilly</span></p> + +<p>But to shut one's mouth—faugh....</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>[<i>In a didactic tone</i>]: Whenever one shuts one's mouth, it is always +high time to shut it, unless one is drinking. Hey, whiskey and soda!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Voices</span></p> + +<p>Whiskey and soda for the Manager!<a name="page_059" id="page_059"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>But this is obscurantism. Philosophizing again, Briquet?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>I am not satisfied with you to-day, <span class="smcap">He</span>. Why do you tease them? They +don't like it. Your health! A good slap must be clean like a +crystal—fft-fft! right side, left side, and done with it. They will +like it; they will laugh, and love you. But in your slaps there is a +certain bite, you understand, a certain smell——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>But they laughed, nevertheless!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>But without pleasure, without pleasure, <span class="smcap">He</span>. You pay, and immediately +draw a draft on their bank; it's not the right game—they won't like +you.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>That's what <i>I</i> tell him. He had already begun to make them angry.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Entering</i>]: Consuelo, where are you? I have been looking for you—come +on. [<i>Both go out. The</i><a name="page_060" id="page_060"></a> <span class="smcap">Baron</span>, <i>after hesitating a while, follows +them</i>. <span class="smcap">Mancini</span> <i>accompanies him respectfully to the door</i>.]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Sighs</i>]: You don't understand, my dear friends; you are simply old, +and have forgotten the smell of the stage.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>Aha! Who is old, my young man?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Don't be angry, Jim. It's a play, don't you understand? I become happy +when I enter the ring and hear the music. I wear a mask and I feel +humorous. There is a mask on my face, and I play. I may say <i>anything</i> +like a drunkard. Do you understand? Yesterday when I, with this stupid +face, was playing the great man, the philosopher [<i>he assumes a proud +monumental pose, and repeats the gesture of the play—general laughter</i>] +I was walking this way, and was telling how great, how wise, how +incomparable I was—how God lived in me, how high I stood above the +earth—how glory shone above my head [<i>his voice changes and he is +speaking faster</i>] then you, Jim, you hit me for the first time. And I +asked you, "What is it, they're applauding me?" Then, at the<a name="page_061" id="page_061"></a> tenth +slap, I said: "It seems to me that they sent for me from the Academy?" +[<i>Acts, looking around him with an air of unconquerable pride and +splendour. Laughter. Jackson gives him a real slap.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Holding his face</i>]: Why?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>Because you're a fool, and play for nothing. Waiter, the check. +(<i>Laughter. The bell calls them to the ring. The actors go out in haste, +some running. The waiters collect their money.</i>)</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>[<i>In a sing-song</i>]: To the ring—to the ring—</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>I want to tell you something, <span class="smcap">He</span>. You are not going yet?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>No. I'll take a rest.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>To the ring—to the ring—</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>The clowns as they go sing in shrill, squeaky voices. Little by +little they all disappear, and loud<a name="page_062" id="page_062"></a> music begins. <span class="smcap">He</span> seats himself +on the sofa with his legs crossed, and yawns.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span>, you have something none of my ancestors ever had—money. Let's have +a nice bottle on you. Waiter, please—[<i>The waiter who was taking up +dishes, brings a bottle of wine and glasses and goes out.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>You're blue, Mancini. [<i>Stretches.</i>] Well, at my age, a hundred +slaps—it seems pretty hard. So you're blue. How are things getting on +with your girl?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Tss! Bad! Complications—parents—[<i>shudders</i>] Agh—</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Prison!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Laughing</i>]: Prison! Mustn't I uphold the glory of my name now, eh? <span class="smcap">He</span>, +I'm joking—but there is Hell in my heart. You're the only one who +understands<a name="page_063" id="page_063"></a> me. But tell me how to explain this passion? It will turn +my hair grey, it'll bring me to prison, to the grave. I am a tragic man. +<span class="smcap">He</span>—[<i>Wipes his eyes with a dirty handkerchief.</i>] Why don't I like +things which are not forbidden? Why, at all moments, even at the very +moment of ecstasy, must I be reminded of some law—it is stupid. <span class="smcap">He</span>, I +am becoming an anarchist. Good God!—Count Mancini, an anarchist. That's +the only thing I've missed.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Isn't there a way of settling it somehow?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Is there a way of getting money, somehow?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>And the Baron?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Oh, yes! He's just waiting for it, the bloodsucker! He'll get what he's +after. Some day, you'll see me give him Consuelo for ten thousand +francs, perhaps for five!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Cheap.<a name="page_064" id="page_064"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Did I say it was anything else? Do I want to do it? But these bourgeois +are strangling me, they've got me by the throat. <span class="smcap">He</span>, one can easily see +that you're a gentleman, and of good society, you understand me—I +showed you the jewels which I sent back to him—damn honesty—I didn't +even dare change the stones, put false ones—</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Why?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>It would have queered the game. Do you think he didn't weigh the +diamonds when he got them back?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>He will not marry her.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Yes he will. You don't understand. [<i>Laughs.</i>] The first half of his +life, this man had only appetites—now love's got him. If he does not +get Consuelo, he is lost, he is—like a withered narcissus. Plague take +him with his automobiles. Did you see his car?<a name="page_065" id="page_065"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>I did.... Give Consuelo to the Jockey—</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>To Bezano? [<i>Laughs.</i>] What nonsense you do talk! Oh, I know. It's your +joke about Adam and Eve. But please stop it. It's clever, but it +compromises the child. She told me about it.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Or give her to me.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Have you a billion? [<i>Laughs.</i>] Ah, <span class="smcap">He</span>, I'm not in the proper mood to +listen to your clownish jokes—They say there are terrible jails in this +country, and no discriminations are being made between people of my +kind, and plain scoundrels. Why do you look at me like that? You're +making fun of me?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>No.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>I'll never get accustomed to those faces. You're so disgustingly made +up.<a name="page_066" id="page_066"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>He will not marry her. You can be as proud as you please, Mancini, but +he'll not marry her. What <i>is</i> Consuelo? She is not educated. When she +is off her horse, any good housemaid from a decent house has nicer +manners, and speaks better. [<i>Nonchalantly</i>] Don't <i>you</i> think she's +stupid?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>No, she's not stupid. And you, <span class="smcap">He</span>, are a fool. What need has a woman of +intelligence? Why, <span class="smcap">He</span>, you astonish me. Consuelo is an unpolished jewel, +and only a real donkey does not notice her sparkle. Do you know what +happened? I tried to begin to polish her—</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Yes, you took a teacher. And what happened?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Nodding his head</i>]: I was frightened—it went too fast—I had to +dismiss him. Another month or two, and <i>she</i> would have kicked <i>me</i> out. +[<i>Laughs.</i>] The clever old diamond merchants of Amsterdam keep their +precious stones unpolished, and fool the thieves. My father taught me +that.<a name="page_067" id="page_067"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>The sleep of a diamond. It is only sleeping, then. You are wise, +Mancini.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Do you know what blood flows in the veins of an Italian woman? The blood +of Hannibal and Corsini—of a Borgia—and of a dirty Lombardi +peasant—and of a Moor. Oh! an Italian woman is not of a lower race, +with only peasants and gypsies behind her. All possibilities, all forms +are included in her, as in our marvelous sculpture. Do you understand +that, you fool? Strike here—out springs a washerwoman, or a cheap +street girl whom you want to throw out, because she is sloppy and has a +screechy voice. Strike there—but carefully and gently, for there stands +a queen, a goddess, the Venus of the Capitol, who sings like a +Stradivarius and makes you cry, idiot! An Italian woman—</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>You're quite a poet, Mancini! But what will the Baron make of her?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>What? What? Make of <i>her</i>? A baroness, you fool! What are you laughing +at? I don't get you?<a name="page_068" id="page_068"></a> But I am happy that this lovesick beast is neither +a duke nor a prince—or she would be a princess and I—what would become +of me? A year after the wedding they would not let me even into the +kitchen [<i>laughing</i>] not even into the kitchen! I, Count Mancini, and +she a—a simple—</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Jumping up</i>]: What did you say? You are not her father, Mancini?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Tss—the devil—I am so nervous to-day! Heavens, who do you think I am? +"Her father?" Of course [<i>tries to laugh</i>] how silly you are—haven't +you noticed the family resemblance? Just look, the nose, the +eyes—[<i>Suddenly sighs deeply.</i>] Ah, <span class="smcap">He</span>! How unhappy I am! Think of it. +Here I am, a gentleman, nearly beaten in my struggle to keep up the +honour of my name, of an old house, while there in the parquet—there +sits that beast, an elephant with the eyes of a spider ... and he looks +at Consuelo ... and....</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Yes, yes, he has the motionless stare of a spider—you're right!<a name="page_069" id="page_069"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Just what I say—a spider! But I must, I shall compel him to marry her. +You'll see—[<i>Walking excitedly up and down, playing with his cane.</i>] +You'll see! All my life I've been getting ready for this battle. [<i>He +continues to walk up and down. Silence. Outside, great stillness.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Listening</i>]: Why is it so quiet out there? What a strange silence.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Disgusted</i>]: I don't know. Out there it is quiet—but here [<i>touching +his forehead with his cane</i>] here is storm, whirlwind. [<i>Bends over the +clown.</i>] <span class="smcap">He</span>, shall I tell you a strange thing—an unusual trick of +nature? [<i>Laughs, and looks very important.</i>] For three centuries the +Counts Mancini have had no children! [<i>Laughs.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Then how were you born?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Sh! Silence! That is the secret of our sainted mothers! Ha-ha! We are +too ancient a stock—too<a name="page_070" id="page_070"></a> exquisitely refined to trouble ourselves with +such things—matters in which a peasant is more competent than +ourselves. [<i>Enter an usher.</i>] What do you want? The manager is on the +stage.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">The Usher</span></p> + +<p>Yes, sir. Baron Regnard wished me to give you this letter.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>The Baron? Is he there?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">The Usher</span></p> + +<p>Baron Regnard has left. There is no answer.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Opening the envelope, his hand shaking</i>]: The devil—the devil! [<i>The +usher is going.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Just a minute. Why is there no music? This silence....</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">The Usher</span></p> + +<p>It is the act with Madame Zinida and her lions. [<i>He goes.</i> <span class="smcap">Mancini</span> <i>is +reading the</i> <span class="smcap">Baron's</span> <i>note for the second time.</i>]<a name="page_071" id="page_071"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>What's the matter, Mancini? You shine like Jackson's sun.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>What's the matter, did you ask? What's the matter? What's the matter? +[<i>Balancing his cane, he takes steps like a ballet-dancer.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Mancini! [<span class="smcap">Mancini</span> <i>rolls his eyes, makes faces, dances</i>.] Speak, you +beast!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Holds out his hand</i>]: Give me ten francs! Quick—ten francs—here, +come on. [<i>Puts it automatically into his vest pocket.</i>] Listen, <span class="smcap">He</span>! If +in a month I don't have a car of my own, you may give me one of your +slaps!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>What! He's going to marry? He's decided?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>What do you mean by "decided?" [<i>Laughs.</i>] When a man has the rope about +his neck, you don't<a name="page_072" id="page_072"></a> ask him about his health! Baron—[<i>Stops suddenly, +startled.</i> <span class="smcap">Briquet</span> <i>is staggering in like a drunken man, his hand over +his eyes</i>.]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Goes to him, touches his shoulder gently</i>]: What is the matter, Papa +Briquet? Tell me!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Groaning</i>]: Oh, oh, I can't ... I can't ... Ah——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Something has happened? You are ill? Please speak.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>I can't look at it! [<i>Takes his hands from his eyes, opens them wide.</i>] +Why does she do it? Ah, ah, why does she do it? She must be taken away; +she is insane. I couldn't look at it. [<i>Shivers.</i>] They will tear her to +pieces. <span class="smcap">He</span>—her lions—they will tear her—</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Go on, Briquet. She is always like that. You act like a child. You ought +to be ashamed.<a name="page_073" id="page_073"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>No—— To-day she is mad! And what is the matter with the crowd? +They are all like dead people—they're not even breathing. I couldn't +stand it. Listen—what's that? [<i>All listen. There is the same +silence.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Disturbed</i>]: I'll go and see.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Yelling</i>]: No! Don't! You can't look—damned profession! Don't go. You +will scorch her—every pair of eyes that looks at her—at her lions—no, +no. It is impossible—it is a sacrilege. I ran away.... <span class="smcap">He</span>, they will +tear her——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Tries to be cheerful</i>]: Keep cool, Papa Briquet—I had no idea you +were such a coward. You ought to be ashamed. Have a drink. Mancini, give +him some wine.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p><a name="page_074" id="page_074"></a>I don't want any. Heavens, if it were only over—— [<i>All +listen.</i>] I have seen many things in my life, but this.... Oh, she is +crazy. [<i>All still listen. Suddenly the silence breaks, like a huge +stone wall crashing. There is a thunder of applause, mixed with shouts, +music, wild screams—half bestial, half human. The men give way, +relieved. Briquet sinks to a seat.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Nervous</i>]: You see—you see—you old fool!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Sobs and laughs</i>]: I am not going to allow it any more!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Here she is!</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>Zinida walks in, alone. She looks like a drunken bacchante, or +like a mad woman. Her hair falls over her shoulders dishevelled, +one shoulder is uncovered. She walks unseeing, though her eyes +glow. She is like the living statue of a mad Victory. Behind her +comes an actor, very pale, then two clowns, and a little later +Consuelo and Bezano. All look at Zinida fearfully, as if they were +afraid of a touch of her hand, or her great eyes.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Shouting</i>]: You are crazy—you're a mad woman!<a name="page_075" id="page_075"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>I? No. Did you see? Did you see? Well? [<i>She stands smiling, with the +expression of a mad Victory.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Tilly</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Plaintively</i>]: Cut it out, Zinida. Go to the devil!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>You saw, too! And!... what——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Come home—come home. [<i>To the others</i>] You can do what you like here. +Zinida, come home.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Polly</span></p> + +<p>You can't go, Papa. There's still your number.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Her eyes meet those of Bezano</i>]: Ah! Bezano. [<i>Laughs long and +happily</i>.] Bezano! Alfred! Did you see? My lions <i>do</i> love me! [<i>Bezano, +without answering, leaves the stage. Zinida seems to wither and grow +dim, as a light being extinguished. Her smile fades, her eyes and face +grow pale. Briquet anxiously bends over her.</i>]<a name="page_076" id="page_076"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>[<i>In a slow voice</i>]: A chair! [<i>Zinida sits. Her head drops on her +shoulder, her arms fall, she begins to shiver and tremble. Some one +calls, "Cognac"—an actor runs to get it.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Helpless</i>]: What is the matter, Zinida darling?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Running about</i>]: She must quiet down. Get out, get out—vagabonds! +I'll fix everything, Papa Briquet. The wrap—where's the wrap? She's +cold. [<i>A clown hands it to him; they cover her.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Tilly</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Timidly</i>]: Wouldn't you like some moosic?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Giving her some cognac</i>]: Drink, Duchess, drink! Drink it all—that's +it. [<span class="smcap">Zinida</span> <i>drinks it like water, evidently not noticing the taste. She +shivers. The clowns disappear one by one.</i> <span class="smcap">Consuelo</span>, <i>with a sudden +flexible movement, falls on her knees before</i> <span class="smcap">Zinida</span> <i>and kisses her +hands, warming them between her own</i>.]<a name="page_077" id="page_077"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Dear, dear, you are cold! Poor little hands, dear good one, beloved +one——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Pushes her away, gently</i>]: Ho—home. It will soon be over. It's +nothing ... I am ver—very ... home.... You stay here, Briquet—you +must. I'm all right.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>You are cold? Here is my shawl.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>No—let me.... [<span class="smcap">Consuelo</span> <i>gets up, and moves aside.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>And it's all because of your books, Zinida—your mythology. Now tell me, +why do you want those beasts to love you? Beasts! Do you understand, <span class="smcap">He</span>? +You too, you're from that world. She'll listen more to you. Explain it +to her. Whom can those beasts love? Those hairy monsters, with diabolic +eyes?<a name="page_078" id="page_078"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Genially</i>]: I believe—only their equals. You are right, Papa +Briquet—there must be the same race.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Of course, and this is all nonsense—literature. Explain it to her, <span class="smcap">He</span>.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Takes on a meditative air</i>]: Yes, you are right, Briquet.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>You see, dear, silly woman—everybody agrees....</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Oh! Briquet, you make me sick; you are an absolute despot, an Asiatic.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>[<i>With the shadow of a smile, gives her hand to be kissed</i>]: Calm +yourself, Louis. It is over—I am going home. [<i>She stands up, shaking, +still chilled.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>But how? alone, dear?<a name="page_079" id="page_079"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>What! fool! Did you imagine that Count Mancini would leave a woman when +she needed help? I shall take her home—let your brutal heart be at +rest—I shall take her home. Thomas, run for an automobile. Don't push +me Briquet, you are as awkward as a unicorn ... that's the way, that's +the way—— [<i>They are holding her, guiding her slowly toward the door</i>]. +<span class="smcap">Consuelo</span>, <i>her chin resting in her hand, is following them with her +eyes. Unconsciously she assumes a somewhat affected pose.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>I'll come back for you, child—— [<i>Only</i> <span class="smcap">He</span> <i>and</i> <span class="smcap">Consuelo</span> <i>are left on +the stage. In the ring, music, shrieks, and laughter begin again.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Consuelo——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Is that you, <span class="smcap">He</span>, dear?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Where did you learn that pose? I have seen it only in marble. You look +like Psyche.<a name="page_080" id="page_080"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>I don't know, <span class="smcap">He</span>. [<i>She sighs and sits on the sofa, keeping in her pose +the same artificiality and beauty.</i>] It's all so sad here, to-day. <span class="smcap">He</span>, +are you sorry for <span class="smcap">Zinida</span>?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>What did she do?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>I didn't see. I had closed my eyes, and didn't open them. Alfred says +she is a wicked woman, but that isn't true. She has such nice eyes, and +what tiny cold hands—as if she were dead. What does she do it for? +Alfred says she should be audacious, beautiful, but quiet, otherwise +what she does is only disgusting. It isn't true, is it, <span class="smcap">He</span>?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>She loves Alfred.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Alfred? My Bezano? [<i>Shrugging her shoulders, and surprised</i>] How does +she love him? The same as everyone loves?<a name="page_081" id="page_081"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Yes—as everyone loves—or still more.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Bezano? Bezano? No—it's nonsense. [<i>Pause; silence.</i>] What a beautiful +costume you have, <span class="smcap">He</span>. You invented it yourself?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Jim helped me.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Jim is so nice! All clowns are nice.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>I am wicked.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Laughs</i>]: You? You are the nicest of all. Oh, goodness! Three acts +more! This is the second on now. Alfred and I are in the third. Are you +coming to see me?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>I always do. How beautiful you are, Consuelo.<a name="page_082" id="page_082"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Like Eve? [<i>Smiles.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Yes, Consuelo. And if the Baron asks you to be his wife, will you +accept?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Certainly, <span class="smcap">He</span>. That's all Father and I are waiting for. Father told me +yesterday that the Baron will not hesitate very long. Of course I do not +love him. But I will be his honest, faithful wife. Father wants to teach +me to play the piano.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Are those your own words—"his honest, faithful wife"?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Certainly they are mine. Whose could they be? He loves me so much, the +poor thing. Dear <span class="smcap">He</span>, what does "love" mean? Everybody speaks of +love—love—Zinida, too! Poor Zinida! What a boring evening this has +been! <span class="smcap">He</span>, did you paint the laughter on your face yourself?<a name="page_083" id="page_083"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>My own self, dear little Consuelo——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>How do you do it, all of you? I tried once, but couldn't do a thing. Why +are there no women clowns? Why are you so silent, <span class="smcap">He</span>? You, too, are sad, +to-night.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>No, I am happy to-night. Give me your hand, Consuelo, I want to see what +it says.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Do you know how? What a talented man you are! Read it, but don't <i>lie</i>, +like a gypsy. [<i>He goes down on one knee and takes her hand. Both bend +over it.</i>] Am I lucky?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Yes, lucky. But wait a minute—this line here—funny. Ah, Consuelo, what +does it say, here! [<i>Acting</i>] I tremble, my eyes do not dare to read the +strange, fatal signs. Consuelo—</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>The stars are talking.<a name="page_084" id="page_084"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Yes, the stars are talking. Their voices are distant and terrible; their +rays are pale, and their shadows slip by, like the ghosts of dead +virgins—their spell is upon thee, Consuelo, beautiful Consuelo. Thou +standest at the door of Eternity.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>I don't understand. Does it mean that I will live long?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>This line—how far it goes. Strange! Thou wilt live eternally, Consuelo.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>You see, <span class="smcap">He</span>, you did tell me a lie, just like a gypsy!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>But it is written—here, silly—and here. Now think of what the stars +are saying. Here you have eternal life, love, and glory; and here, +listen to what Jupiter says. He says: "Goddess, thou must not belong to +any one born on earth," and if you marry the Baron—you'll perish, +you'll die, Consuelo. [<i>Consuelo laughs.</i>]<a name="page_085" id="page_085"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Will he eat me?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>No. But you will die before he has time to eat you.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>And what will become of Father? Is there nothing about him here? +[<i>Laughing, she softly sings the melody of the waltz, which is playing +in the distance.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Don't laugh, Consuelo, at the voice of the stars. They are far away, +their rays are light and pale, and we can barely see their sleeping +shadows, but their sorcery is stern and dark. You stand at the gates of +eternity. Your die is cast; you are <i>doomed</i>—and your Alfred, whom you +love in your heart, even though your mind is not aware of it, your +Alfred cannot save you. He, too, is a stranger on this earth. He is +submerged in a deep sleep. He, too, is a little god who has lost +himself, and Consuelo, never, never will he find his way to Heaven +again. Forget Bezano——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>I don't understand a word. Do the gods really exist? My teacher told me +about them. But I<a name="page_086" id="page_086"></a> thought it was all tales! [<i>Laughs.</i>] And my Bezano +is a god?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Forget Bezano! Consuelo, do you know who can save you? The only one who +can save you? I.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Laughing</i>]: You, <span class="smcap">He</span>?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Yes, but don't laugh! Look. Here is the letter H. It is I, <span class="smcap">He</span>.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span> Who Gets Slapped? Is that written here, too?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>That, too. The stars know everything. But look here, what more is +written about him. Consuelo, welcome him. <span class="smcap">He</span> is an old god in disguise, +who came down to earth only to love you, foolish little Consuelo.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Laughing and singing</i>]: Some god!<a name="page_087" id="page_087"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Don't mock! The gods don't like such, empty laughter from beautiful +lips. The gods grow lonely and die, when they are not recognized. Oh, +Consuelo! Oh, great joy and love! Do recognize this god, and accept him. +Think a moment, one day a god suddenly went crazy!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Gods go crazy, too?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Yes, when they are half man, then they often go mad. Suddenly he saw his +own sublimity, and shuddered with horror, with infinite solitude, with +super-human anguish. It is terrible, when anguish touches the divine +soul!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>I don't like it. What language are you speaking? I don't understand——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>I speak the language of thy awakening. Consuelo, recognize and accept +thy god, who was thrown down from the summit like a stone. Accept the +god who fell<a name="page_088" id="page_088"></a> to the earth in order to live, to play, and to be +infinitely drunk with joy. Evoë Goddess!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Tortured</i>]: <span class="smcap">He</span>—— I cannot understand. Let my hand alone.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Stands up</i>]: Sleep. Then wake again, Consuelo! And when thou +wakest—remember that hour when, covered with snow-white sea-foam, thou +didst emerge from the sky-blue waters. Remember heaven, and the slow +eastern wind, and the whisper of the foam at thy marble feet.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Her eyes are closed</i>]: I believe—wait—I remember. Remind me +further——</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<span class="smcap">He</span> <i>is bowed over</i> <span class="smcap">Consuelo</span>, <i>with lifted arms; he speaks slowly, +but in a commanding voice, as if conjuring</i>.]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>You see the waves playing. Remember the song of the sirens, their +sorrowless song of joy. Their white bodies, shining blue through the +blue waters. Or can<a name="page_089" id="page_089"></a> you hear the sun, singing? Like the strings of a +divine harp, spread the golden rays—— Do you not see the hand +of God, which gives harmony, light, and love to the world? Do not the +mountains, in the blue cloud of incense, sing their hymn of glory? +Remember, O Consuelo, remember the prayer of the mountains, the prayer +of the sea. [<i>Silence.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Commandingly</i>]: Remember—Consuelo!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Opening her eyes</i>]: No! <span class="smcap">He</span>, I was feeling so happy, and suddenly I +forgot it all. Yet something of it all is still in my heart. Help me +again, HE, remind me. It hurts, I hear so many voices. They all sing +"Consuelo—Consuelo." What comes after? [<i>Silence; pause.</i>] What comes +after? It hurts. Remind me, <span class="smcap">He</span>. [<i>Silence—in the ring, the music +suddenly bursts forth in a tempestuous circus gallop. Silence.</i>] <span class="smcap">He</span>, +[<i>opens her eyes and smiles</i>] that's Alfred galloping. Do you recognize +his music?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>With rage</i>]: Leave the boy alone! [<i>Suddenly falls on his knees +before</i> <span class="smcap">Consuelo</span>.] <i>I love you, Consuelo</i>, revelation of my heart, light +of my nights, I<a name="page_090" id="page_090"></a> love you, Consuelo. [<i>Looks at her in ecstasy and +tears—and gets a slap; starting back.</i>] What's this?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>A slap! You forget who you are. [<i>Stands up, with anger in her eyes.</i>] +You are <span class="smcap">He</span> Who Gets Slapped! Did you forget it? Some god! With such a +face—slapped face! Was it with slaps they threw you down from heaven, +god?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Wait! Don't stand up! I—did not finish the play!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Sits</i>]: Then you were playing?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Wait! One minute.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>You lied to me. Why did you play so that I believed you?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>I am <span class="smcap">He</span> Who Gets Slapped!<a name="page_091" id="page_091"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>You are not angry because I struck you? I did not want to really, but +you were so—disgusting. And now you are so funny again. You have great +talent, <span class="smcap">He</span>—or are you drunk?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Strike me again.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>No.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>I need it for my play. Strike!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Laughs, and touches his cheek with her fingertips</i>]: Here, then!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Didn't you understand that you are a queen, and I a fool who is in love +with his queen? Don't you know, Consuelo, that every queen has a fool, +and he is always in love with her, and they always beat him for it. <span class="smcap">He</span> +Who Gets Slapped.<a name="page_092" id="page_092"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>No. I didn't know.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Yes, every queen. Beauty has her fool. Wisdom, too. Oh, how many fools +she has! Her court is overcrowded with enamoured fools, and the sound of +slaps does not cease, even through the night. But I never received such +a sweet slap as the one given by my little queen. [<i>Someone appears at +the door.</i> <span class="smcap">He</span> <i>notices it, and continues to play, making many faces</i>.] +Clown <span class="smcap">He</span> can have no rival! Who is there who could stand such a deluge +of slaps, such a hail-storm of slaps, and not get soaked? [<i>Feigns to +cry aloud.</i>] "Have pity on me. I am but a poor fool!"</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>Enter two men: an actor, dressed as a bareback rider, and a +gentleman from the audience. He is spare, dressed in black, very +respectable. He carries his hat in his hand.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Laughing, embarrassed</i>]: <span class="smcap">He</span>, there is someone here. Stop!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Gets up</i>]: Who is it? Who dares to intrude in the castle of my queen?<a name="page_093" id="page_093"></a></p> + +<p>[<i>HE stops, suddenly. Consuelo, laughing, jumps up and runs away, after +a quick glance at the gentleman.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>You cheered me up, <span class="smcap">He</span>. Good-bye. [<i>At the door</i>] You shall get a note +to-morrow.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">The Bareback Rider</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Laughing</i>]: A jolly fellow, sir. You wanted to see him? There he is. +<span class="smcap">He</span>, the gentleman wants to see you.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>In a depressed voice</i>]: What can I do for you?</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>The actor bows, and goes away, smiling. Both men take a step +toward each other.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>Is this you?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Yes! It is I. And you? [<i>Silence.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>Must I believe my eyes? Is this <i>you</i>, Mr.——<a name="page_094" id="page_094"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>In a rage</i>]: My name here is <span class="smcap">He</span>. I have no other name, do you hear? <span class="smcap">He</span> +Who Gets Slapped. And if you want to stay here, don't forget it.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>You are so familiar. As far as I can remember——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>We are all familiar, here. [<i>Contemptuously</i>] Besides, that's all you +deserve, anywhere.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Humbly</i>]: You have not forgiven me, <span class="smcap">He</span>? [<i>Silence.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Are you here with my wife? Is she, too, in the circus?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Quickly</i>]: Oh, no! I am alone. She stayed there!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>You've left her already?<a name="page_095" id="page_095"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Humbly</i>]: No—we have—a son. After your sudden and mysterious +disappearance—when you left that strange and insulting letter——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Laughs</i>]: Insulting? You are still able to feel insults? What are you +doing here? Were you looking for me, or is it an accident?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>I have been looking for you, for half a year—through many countries. +And suddenly, to-day—by accident, indeed—I had no acquaintances here, +and I went to the circus. We must talk things over ... <span class="smcap">He</span>, I implore +you. [<i>Silence.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Here is a shadow I cannot lose! To talk things over! Do you really think +we still have something to talk over? All right. Leave your address with +the porter, and I will let you know when you can see me. Now get out. +[<i>Proudly.</i>] I am busy.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>The gentleman bows and leaves. HE does not return his bow, but +stands with outstretched hand, in the pose of a great man, who +shows a boring visitor the door.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Curtain</span><a name="page_096" id="page_096"></a></p> + +<h2><a name="ACT_III" id="ACT_III"></a>ACT III</h2> + +<p><i>The same room. Morning, before the rehearsal. HE is striding +thoughtfully up and down the room. He wears a broad, parti-coloured +coat, and a prismatic tie. His derby is on the back of his head, and his +face is clean-shaven like that of an actor. His eyebrows are drawn, lips +pressed together energetically, his whole appearance severe and sombre. +After the entrance of the gentleman he changes. His face becomes +clown-like, mobile—a living mask.</i></p> + +<p><i>The gentleman comes in. He is dressed in black, and has an extremely +well-bred appearance. His thin face is yellowish, like an invalid's. +When he is upset, his colourless, dull eyes often twitch. HE does not +notice him.</i></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>Good morning, sir.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Turning around and looking at him absent-mindedly</i>]: Ah! It's you.<a name="page_097" id="page_097"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>I am not late? You look as if you did not expect me. I hope I am not +disturbing you? You fixed this time yourself however, and I took the +liberty——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>No manners, please. What do you want? Tell me quickly, I have no time.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Looking around with distaste</i>]: I expected you would invite me to some +other place ... to your home.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>I have no other home. This is my home.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>But people may disturb us here.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>So much the worse for you. Talk faster! [<i>Silence.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>Will you allow me to sit down?<a name="page_098" id="page_098"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Sit down. Look out! That chair is broken.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>The gentleman, afraid, pushes away the chair and looks helplessly +around. Everything here seems to him dangerous and strange. He +chooses an apparently solid little gilded divan, and sits down; +puts his silk hat aside, slowly takes off his gloves, which stick +to his fingers. HE observes him indifferently.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>In this suit, and with this face, you make a still stranger impression. +Yesterday it seemed to me that it was all a dream; to-day ... <i>you</i> ...</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>You have forgotten my name again? My name is <span class="smcap">He</span>.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>You are determined to continue talking to me like this?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Decidedly! But you are squandering your time like a millionaire. Hurry +up!<a name="page_099" id="page_099"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>I really don't know.... Everything here strikes me so.... These posters, +horses, animals, which I passed when I was looking for you.... And +finally, <i>you</i>, a clown in a circus! [<i>With a slight, deprecating +smile.</i>] Could I expect it? It is true, when everybody there decided +that you were dead, I was the only man who did not agree with them. I +felt that you were still alive. But to find you among such +surroundings—I can't understand it.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>You said you have a son, now. Doesn't he look like me?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>I don't understand?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Don't you know that widows or divorced women often have children by the +new husband, which resemble the old one? This misfortune did not befall +you? [<i>Laughs.</i>] And your book, too, is a big success, I hear.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>You want to insult me again?<a name="page_100" id="page_100"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Laughing</i>]: What a restless, touchy faker you are! Please sit still; +be quiet. It is the custom here to speak this way. Why were you trying +to find me?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>My conscience....</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>You have no conscience. Or were you afraid that you hadn't robbed me of +<i>everything</i> I possessed, and you came for the rest? But what more could +you take from me now? My fool's cap with its bells? You wouldn't take +it. It's too big for your bald head! Crawl back, you book-worm!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>You cannot forgive the fact that your wife....</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>To the devil with my wife! [<i>The gentleman is startled and raises his +eyebrows. HE laughs.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>I don't know.... But such language! I confess I find difficulty in +<a name="page_101" id="page_101"></a>expressing my thoughts in such an atmosphere, but if you are so ... +indifferent to your wife, who, I shall allow myself to emphasize the +fact, loved you and thought you were a saint—— [<i>HE laughs.</i>] +Then <i>what</i> brought you to such a ... step? Or is it that you cannot +forgive me my success? A success, it is true, not entirely deserved. And +now you want to take vengeance, with your humbleness, on those who +misunderstood you. But you always were so indifferent to glory. Or your +indifference was only hypocrisy. And when I, a more lucky rival ...</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>With a burst of laughter</i>]: Rival! You—a rival!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>[Growing Pale]: But my book!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>You are talking to me about <i>your</i> book? To me? [<i>The gentleman is very +pale. HE looks at him with curiosity and mockery.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Raising his eyes</i>]: I am a very unhappy man.<a name="page_102" id="page_102"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Why?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>I am a very unhappy man. You must forgive me. I am deeply, irreparably, +and infinitely unhappy.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>But why? Explain it to me. [<i>Starts walking up and down.</i>] You say +yourself that your book is a tremendous success, you are famous, you +have glory; there is not a yellow newspaper in which <i>you</i> and <i>your</i> +thoughts are not mentioned. Who knows <i>me</i>? Who cares about my heavy +abstractions, from which it was difficult for them to derive a single +thought? You—you are the great vulgarizer! You have made my thoughts +comprehensible even to horses! With the art of a great vulgarizer, a +tailor of ideas, you dressed my Apollo in a barber's jacket, you handed +my Venus a yellow ticket, and to my bright hero you gave the ears of an +ass. And then your career is made, as Jackson says. And wherever I go, +the whole street looks at me with thousands of faces, in which—what +mockery—I recognize the traits of my own children. Oh! How ugly your +son must be, if he resembles me! Why then are you unhappy, you poor +devil? [<i>The gentleman bows his head, plucking at his gloves.</i>]<a name="page_103" id="page_103"></a> The +police haven't caught you, as yet. What am I talking about? Is it +possible to catch you? You always keep within the limits of the law. You +have been torturing yourself up to now because you are not married to my +wife. A notary public is always present at your thefts. What is the use +of this self-torture, my friend? Get married. I died. You are not +satisfied with having taken only my wife? Let my glory remain in your +possession. It is yours. Accept my ideas. Assume all the rights, my most +lawful heir! I died! And when I was dying [<i>making a stupidly pious +face</i>] I forgave thee! [<i>Bursts out laughing. The gentleman raises his +head, and bending forward, looks straight into HE's eyes.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>And my pride?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Have you any pride? [<i>The gentleman straightens up, and nods his head +silently.</i>] Yes! But please stand off a little. I don't like to look at +you. Think of it. There was a time when I loved you a little, even +thought you a little gifted! You—my empty shadow.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Nodding his head</i>]: I am your shadow. [<i>HE keeps on walking, and looks +over his shoulder at the gentleman, with a smile.</i>]<a name="page_104" id="page_104"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Oh, you are marvellous! What a comedy! What a touching comedy! Listen. +Tell me frankly if you can; do you hate me very much?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>Yes! With all the hate there is in the world! Sit down here.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>You order me?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>Sit down here. Thank you. [<i>Bows.</i>] I am respected and I am famous, yes? +I have a wife and a son, yes. [<i>Laughs slowly.</i>] My wife still loves +you: our favourite discussion is about your genius. She supposes you are +a genius. We, I and she, love you even when we are in bed. Tss! It is I +who must make faces. My son—yes, he'll resemble you. And when, in order +to have a little rest, I go to my desk, to my ink-pot, my books—there, +too, I find you. Always you! Everywhere you! And I am never alone—never +myself and alone. And when at night—you, sir, should understand +this—when at night I go to my lonely thoughts, to my sleepless +contemplations,<a name="page_105" id="page_105"></a> even then I find your image in my head, in my +unfortunate brain, your damned and hateful image! [<i>Silence. The +gentleman's eyes twitch.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Speaking slowly</i>]: What a comedy. How marvellously everything is +turned about in this world: the robbed proves to be a robber, and the +robber is complaining of theft, and cursing! [<i>Laughs.</i>] Listen, I was +mistaken. You are not my shadow. You are the crowd. If you live by my +creations, you hate me; if you breathe my breath, you are choking with +anger. And choking with anger, hating me, you still walk slowly on the +trail of my ideas. But you are advancing backward, advancing backward, +comrade! Oh, what a marvellous comedy! [<i>Walking and smiling.</i>] Tell me, +would you be relieved if I really had died?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>Yes! I think so. Death augments distance and dulls the memory. Death +reconciles. But you do not look like a man who——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Yes, yes! Death, <i>certainly</i>!<a name="page_106" id="page_106"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>Sit down here.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Your obedient servant. Yes?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>Certainly, I do not dare to ask you—[<i>makes a grimace</i>] to ask you to +die, but tell me: you'll never come back there? No, don't laugh. If you +want me to, I'll kiss your hand. Don't grimace! I would have done so if +you had died.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Slowly</i>]: Get out, vermin!</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>Enter Tilly and Polly as in the first act, playing. For a long +time they do not see the two men.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Jack!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Tilly</span></p> + +<p>Ah! Good morning, <span class="smcap">He</span>. We are rehearsing. You know it is very hard. Jack +has just about as much music in his head as my pig.<a name="page_107" id="page_107"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Introducing, nonchalantly</i>]: My friend.... For the benefit +performance? [<i>The clowns bow to the gentleman, making idiotic faces.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Polly</span></p> + +<p>Yes. What are you preparing? You are cunning, <span class="smcap">He</span>! Consuelo told me what +you are preparing for the benefit performance. She leaves us soon, you +know?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Is that so?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Tilly</span></p> + +<p>Zinida told us. Do you think she would get a benefit performance +otherwise? She is a nice girl.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Polly</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Taking his small flute-pipe</i>]: Here! Don't walk as if you were an +elephant. Don't forget you are an ant! Come on! [<i>They go off, +playing.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Smiling</i>]: These are your new comrades? How strange they are!<a name="page_108" id="page_108"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Everything here is strange.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>This suit of yours. Black used to be very becoming to you. This one +hurts the eyes.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Looking himself over</i>]: Why? It looks very nice. The rehearsal has +begun. You must go away. You are disturbing us.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>You did not answer my question.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>Slow strains of the Tango from a small orchestra in the ring.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Listening absent-mindedly to the music</i>]: What question?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Who does not hear the music</i>]: I pray you to tell me: will you ever +come back?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Listening to the music</i>]: Never, never, never!<a name="page_109" id="page_109"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Getting up</i>]: Thank you. I am going.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Never, never, never! Yes, run along. And don't come back. There you were +still bearable and useful for something, but here you are superfluous.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>But if something should happen to you ... you are a healthy man, but in +this environment, these people ... how will I know? They don't know your +name here?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>My name here is unknown, but <i>you will know</i>. Anything else?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>I can be at peace? On your word of honour? Of course I mean, +comparatively, at peace?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Yes, you may be comparatively at peace. Never! [<i>They walk to the door, +the gentleman stops.</i>]<a name="page_110" id="page_110"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>May I come to the circus? You will allow me?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Certainly. You are the audience! [<i>Laughs.</i>] But I shan't give you my +card for a pass. But why do you want to come? Or do you like the circus +so much, and since when?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>I want to look at you some more, and to understand, perhaps. Such a +transformation! Knowing you as I do, I cannot admit that you are here +without any <i>idea</i>. But what idea? [<i>Looks short-sightedly at HE. HE +grimaces and thumbs his nose.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>What is that?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p><i>My idea!</i> Good-bye, Prince! My regards to your respected wife, your +Highness' wonderful son! [<i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Mancini</span>.]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>You positively live in the circus, <span class="smcap">He</span>. Whenever I come, you are here. +You are a fanatic in your work, sir.<a name="page_111" id="page_111"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Introducing</i>]: Prince Poniatovsky, Count Mancini.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Drawing himself up</i>]: Very, very glad. And you too, Prince, you know +my queer fellow? What a nice face he has, hasn't he? [<i>He touches HE'S +shoulder patronizingly, with the tip of his cane.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Awkwardly</i>]: Yes, I have the pleasure ... certainly. Good-bye, Count.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Good-day, Prince.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Accompanying him</i>]: Look out, your Highness, for the dark passages: +the steps are so rotten. Unfortunately I cannot usher you out to the +street.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>[<i>In a low voice</i>]: You will not give me your hand when we say good-bye? +We are parting for ever.<a name="page_112" id="page_112"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Unnecessary, Prince. I shall still hope to meet you in the Kingdom of +Heaven. I trust you will be there, too?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>[<i>With disgust</i>]: How you did succeed! You have so much of the clown in +you!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>I am <span class="smcap">He</span> Who is Getting Slapped. Good-bye, Prince. [<i>They take another +step.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Gentleman</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Looking HE in the eyes; in a very low voice</i>]: Tell me, you are not +mad?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Just at low, his eyes wide open</i>]: I am afraid, I am afraid you are +right, Prince. [<i>Still low</i>] Ass! Never in your life did you use such a +precise expression. I am mad!</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>Playing the clown again, he shows him to the stair, with a big, +affected gesture, a sweep of the hand and arm from his head to the +floor, the fingers moving, to represent the steps.</i>]</p></div> + +<p><a name="page_113" id="page_113"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Laughing</i>]: He is down! <i>Au revoir</i>, Prince. [<i>The gentleman goes out. +HE comes skipping back, and takes a pose.</i>] Mancini! Let us dance the +Tango! Mancini, I adore you!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Sitting back comfortably and playing with his cane</i>]: Don't forget +yourself, <span class="smcap">He</span>. But you're hiding something, my boy. I always said you +used to belong to society. It is so easy to talk to you. And who is this +Prince? A genuine one?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Genuine. A first-rater. Like you!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>A sympathetic face. Although at first I thought he was an undertaker who +came for an order. Ah, <span class="smcap">He</span>! When shall I finally depart from these dirty +walls, from Papa Briquet, stupid posters, and brutal jockeys!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Very soon, Mancini.<a name="page_114" id="page_114"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Yes, soon. I am simply exhausted in these surroundings, <span class="smcap">He</span>! I begin to +feel myself a horse. You are from society, still you don't yet know what +high society means. To be at last decently dressed, to attend +receptions, to display the splendour of wit; from time to time to have a +game of baccarat [<i>laughing</i>] without tricks or cheating——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>And when evening comes, go to a suburb, where you are considered an +honest father, who loves his children and——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>And get hold of something, eh? [<i>Laughs.</i>] I shall wear a silk mask and +two butlers shall follow me, thus protecting me from the dirty crowd. +Ah, <span class="smcap">He</span>! The blood of my ancestors boils in me. Look at this stiletto. +What do you think? Do you think that it was ever stained with blood?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>You frighten me, Count!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Laughing, and putting the stiletto back into its sheath</i>]: Fool!<a name="page_115" id="page_115"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>And what about the girl?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Tss! I give those bourgeois absolute satisfaction, and they glorify my +name. [<i>Laughs.</i>] The splendour of my name is beginning to shine with a +force unknown. By the way, do you know what automobile firms are the +best? Money is no object. [<i>Laughs.</i>] Ah! Papa Briquet!</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>Enter Briquet in his overcoat and silk hat. They shake hands.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>So, Mancini, you have obtained a benefit performance for your daughter, +Consuelo! I only want to tell you, that if it were not for Zinida....</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Listen, Briquet. Decidedly you are a donkey. What are you complaining +of? The Baron has bought all the parquet seats for Consuelo's benefit +performance. Isn't that enough for you, you miser?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>I love your daughter, Mancini, and I am sorry to let her go. What more +does she need here? She has<a name="page_116" id="page_116"></a> an honest job, wonderful comrades, and the +atmosphere—?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Not <i>she</i>, but <i>I</i> need something. You understand? [<i>Laughs.</i>] I asked +you to increase her salary, Harpagon! and now, Mr. Manager, wouldn't you +like to change me a thousand franc note?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>[<i>With a sigh</i>]: Give it to me.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Nonchalantly</i>]: To-morrow. I left it at home. [<i>All three laugh.</i>] +Laugh, laugh! To-day we are going with the Baron to his villa in the +country; people say a very nice villa.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>What for?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>You know, <span class="smcap">He</span>, the crazes of these billionaires. He wants to show +Consuelo some winter roses, and me his wine cellars. He will come for us +here. What is the matter, my little Consuelo?</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Consuelo</span>, <i>almost crying</i>.]</p></div> + +<p><a name="page_117" id="page_117"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>I can't father! Tell him! What right has he to yell at me? He almost hit +me with his whip!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Straightening up</i>]: Briquet! I beg of you, as the Manager, what is +this—a stable? To hit my daughter with a whip! I'll show this cub ... a +mere jockey.... No, the devil knows what it is, devil knows, I swear....</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Father....</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>I will tell him.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Please don't. Alfred didn't hit me. It's a silly thing, what I told you. +What an idea! He is so sorry himself....</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>I shall tell him anyhow that——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Don't you dare. You mustn't tell him anything. He didn't do a thing.<a name="page_118" id="page_118"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Still excited</i>]: He must beg her pardon, the brat.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>He's already asked me to forgive him. How silly you all are! I simply +cannot work to-day and I got nervous. What nonsense! The silly boy asked +me to forgive him, but I didn't want to. <span class="smcap">He</span>, dear, good morning! I +didn't notice you. How becoming your tie is! Where are you going, +Briquet? To Alfred?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>No, I am going home, dear child. Zinida asked me to give you her love. +She will not be here to-day, either. [<i>He goes out.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Zinida is so nice, so good. Father, why is it that everybody seems so +nice to me? Probably because I am going away soon. <span class="smcap">He</span>, did you hear the +march that Tilly and Polly will play? [<i>Laughs.</i>] Such a cheerful one.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Yes. I heard it. Your benefit performance will be remarkable.<a name="page_119" id="page_119"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>I think so, too. Father I am hungry. Have them bring me a sandwich.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>I'll run for it, my Queen.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Please do, <span class="smcap">He</span>. [<i>Loudly</i>] But not cheese. I don't like it.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<span class="smcap">Mancini</span> <i>and</i> <span class="smcap">Consuelo</span> <i>are alone</i>. <span class="smcap">Mancini</span>, <i>lying back +comfortably in an armchair, scrutinizes his daughter with a +searching eye</i>.]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>I find something particular in you to-day, my child. I don't know +whether it is something better or worse. You cried?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Yes, a little. Oh, I am so hungry.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>But you had your breakfast?<a name="page_120" id="page_120"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>No, I didn't. That's why I am so hungry. You again forgot to leave me +some money this morning, and without money....</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Oh, the devil ... what a memory I have. [<i>Laughs.</i>] But we shall have a +very nice meal to-day. Don't eat very many sandwiches.... Yes, +positively I like you. You must cry more often, my child; it washes off +your superfluous simplicity. You become more of a woman.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Am I so simple, Father?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Very.... Too much. I like it in others, but not in you. Besides, the +Baron....</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Nonsense. I am not simple. But you know, Bezano scolded me so much, that +even you would have cried. The devil knows....<a name="page_121" id="page_121"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Tsss.... Never say "the devil knows." It isn't decent.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>I say it only when I am with you.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>You must not say it when you are with me, either. I know it without you. +[<i>Laughs.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Ha! Listen, Father! It's a new number of Alfred's. He makes such a jump! +Jim says he's bound to break his neck. Poor fish....</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Indifferently</i>]: Or his leg, or his back; they all have to break +something. [<i>Laughs.</i>] They are breakable toys.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Listening to the music</i>]: I'll be lonesome without them, Father! The +Baron promised to make a ring for me to gallop over as much as I want. +He's not lying?<a name="page_122" id="page_122"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>A ring? [<i>Laughs.</i>] No, it's not a lie. By the way, child, when speaking +of Barons, you must say, "he does not tell the truth," and not, "he +lies."</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>It's just the same. It's nice to be wealthy, Father; you can do what you +want, then.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>With enthusiasm</i>]: Everything you want. Everything, my child. Ah! Our +fate is being decided to-day. Pray our clement God, Consuelo. The Baron +is hanging on a thread.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Indifferently</i>]: Yes?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Making the gesture with his fingers</i>]: On a very thin, silk thread. I +am almost sure that he will make his proposal to-day. [<i>Laughs.</i>] Winter +roses, and the web of a spider amongst the roses, in order that my dear +little fly.... He is such a spider.<a name="page_123" id="page_123"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Indifferently</i>]: Yes, a terrible spider. Father, oughtn't I to let him +kiss my hand yet?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>By no means. You don't know yet, darling, what these men are.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Alfred never kisses.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Alfred! Your Alfred is a cub, and he mustn't dare. But with men of that +sort, you must be extremely careful, my child. To-day he would kiss your +little finger, to-morrow your hand, and after to-morrow you would be on +his lap.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Foui! Father, what are you talking about? You should be ashamed!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>But I know....<a name="page_124" id="page_124"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Don't you dare! I don't want to hear such dirty things. I shall give the +Baron such a slap! A better one than <span class="smcap">He</span>—let him only try.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>With a deprecating gesture</i>]: All men are like that, child.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>It isn't true. Alfred is not. Ah! But where is <span class="smcap">He</span>? He said he'd run, and +he hasn't come back.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>The buffet here is closed, and he has to get the sandwiches somewhere +else. Consuelo, as your father, I want to warn you about <span class="smcap">He</span>. Don't trust +him. He knows something. [<i>Twirls his finger close to his forehead.</i>] +His game is not fair.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>You say it about everybody. I know <span class="smcap">He</span>; he is such a nice man, and he +loves me so much.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Believe me, there is something in it.<a name="page_125" id="page_125"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Father, you make me sick with your advice. Ah! <span class="smcap">He</span>, thank you.</p> + +<p>[<i>HE, breathing somewhat heavily, enters and gives her the sandwiches.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Eat, Consuelo.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>A hot one.... But you were running, <span class="smcap">He</span>? I am so grateful. [<i>Eats.</i>] <span class="smcap">He</span>, +do you love me?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>I do, my Queen. I am your court fool.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Eating</i>]: And when I leave, will you find another queen?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Making a ceremonious bow</i>]: I shall follow after you, my incomparable +one. I shall carry the train of your dress and wipe away my tears with +it. [<i>Pretends to cry.</i>]<a name="page_126" id="page_126"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Idiot! [<i>Laughs.</i>] How sorry I am, <span class="smcap">He</span>, that those wonderful times have +passed, when, in the court of the Counts Mancini, there were scores of +motley fools who were given gold and kicks.... Now, Mancini is compelled +to go to this dirty circus in order to see a good fool; and still, whose +fool is he? Mine? No. He belongs to everybody who pays a franc. We shall +very soon be unable to breathe because of Democracy. Democracy, too, +needs fools! Think of it, <span class="smcap">He</span>; what an unexampled impertinence.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>We are the servants of those who pay. But how can we help it, Count?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>But is that not sad? Imagine: we are in my castle. I, near the fireplace +with my glass of wine, you, at my feet chatting your nonsense, jingling +your little bells—diverting me. Sometimes you pinch me too with your +jokes: it is allowed by the traditions and necessary for the circulation +of the blood. After a while—I am sick of you, I want another one.... +Then I give you a kick and.... Ah, <span class="smcap">He</span>, how wonderful it would be!<a name="page_127" id="page_127"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>It would be marvellous, Mancini!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Yes. Certainly! You would be getting gold coins, those wonderfully +little yellow things.... Well, when I become rich, I shall take you. +That's settled.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Take him, Father....</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>And when the count, tired of my chattering, will give me a kick with his +Highness's foot, then I shall lie down at the little feet of my queen, +and shall....</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Laughing</i>]: Wait for another kick? I'm finished. Father, give me your +handkerchief, I want to wipe my hands. You have another one in your +pocket. Oh, my goodness, I must work some more!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Uneasy</i>]: But don't forget, my child!<a name="page_128" id="page_128"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>No, to-day I won't forget! Go on!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Looking at his watch</i>]: Yes, it is time.... He asked me to come over +when you were ready. You must change your dress before I come back. +[<i>Laughing.</i>] <i>Signori, miei complimenti.</i></p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>He goes out, playing with his cane.</i> <span class="smcap">Consuelo</span> <i>sits on the corner +of the divan, and covers herself with her shawl</i>.]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Hello, <span class="smcap">He</span>! Come and lie down at my feet, and tell me something +cheerful.... You know, when you paint the laughter on your face, you are +very good looking, but now, too, you are very, very nice. Come on, <span class="smcap">He</span>, +why don't you lie down?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Consuelo! Are you going to marry the Baron?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Indifferently</i>]: It seems so. The Baron is hanging by a thread! <span class="smcap">He</span>, +there is one little sandwich left. Eat it.<a name="page_129" id="page_129"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Thank you, my queen. [<i>Eats.</i>] And do you remember my prediction?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>What prediction? How quickly you swallow! Does it taste good?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Very good. That if you marry the Baron, you....</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Oh, that's what you're talking about.... But you were making fun.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Nobody can tell, my Queen. Sometimes one makes fun, and suddenly it +turns out to be true; the stars never talk in vain. If sometimes it is +difficult for a human being to open his mouth and to say a word, how +difficult it must be for a star. Think of it.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Laughing</i>]: I should say. Such a mouth! [<i>Makes a tiny mouth.</i>]<a name="page_130" id="page_130"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>No, my dear little girl, were I in your place, I would think it over. +And suppose suddenly you should die? Don't marry the Baron, Consuelo!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Thinking</i>]: And what is—death?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>I do not know, my Queen. Nobody knows. Like love! Nobody knows. But your +little hands will become cold, and your dear little eyes will be closed. +You will be away from here. And the music will play without you, and +without you the crazy Bezano will be galloping, and Tilly and Polly will +be playing on their pipes without you: tilly-polly, tilly-polly ... +tilly-tilly, polly-polly....</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Please don't, <span class="smcap">He</span> darling—— I am so sad, anyway ... tilly-tilly, +polly-polly ... [<i>Silence. HE looks at</i> <span class="smcap">Consuelo</span>.]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>You were crying, my little Consuelo?<a name="page_131" id="page_131"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Yes, a little. Alfred made me nervous. But tell me, is it my fault that +I can't do anything to-day? I tried to, but I couldn't.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Why?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Ah, I don't know. There is something here. [<i>Presses her hand against +her heart.</i>] I don't know. <span class="smcap">He</span>, I must be sick. What is sickness? Does it +hurt very much?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>It is not sickness. It is the charm of the far off stars, Consuelo. It +is the voice of your fate, my little Queen.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Don't talk nonsense, please. What should the stars care about me? I am +so small. Nonsense, <span class="smcap">He</span>! Tell me rather another tale which you know: +about the blue sea and those gods, you know ... who are so beautiful. +Did they all die?<a name="page_132" id="page_132"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>They are all alive, but they hide themselves, my goddess.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>In the woods or mountains? Can one come across them? Ah, imagine <span class="smcap">He</span> ... +I come across a god, and he suddenly takes a look at me! I'd run away. +[<i>Laughs.</i>] This morning when I went without breakfast, I became so sad, +so disgusted, and I thought: if a god should come, and give me something +to eat! And as I thought it, I suddenly heard, honestly it's true, I +heard: "Consuelo, somebody's calling you." [<i>Angrily.</i>] Don't you dare +laugh!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Am I laughing?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Honestly, it's true. Ah, <span class="smcap">He</span>, but he didn't come. He only called me and +disappeared, and how can you find him? It hurt me so much, and hurts +even now. Why did you remind me of my childhood? I'd forgotten it +entirely. There was the sea ... and something ... many, many [<i>closes +her eyes, smiling.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Remember, Consuelo.<a name="page_133" id="page_133"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>No. [<i>Opening her eyes</i>] I forget everything about it. [<i>Looks around +the room.</i>] <span class="smcap">He</span>, do you see what a poster they made for my benefit +performance? It's Father's idea. The Baron liked it. [<i>HE laughs. +Silence.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Slowly</i>] Consuelo, my Queen! Don't go to the Baron to-day.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Why? [<i>After a silence.</i>] How fresh you are, <span class="smcap">He</span>.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Lowering his head, slowly</i>]: I don't want it.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Getting up</i>]: What? You don't want it?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Bowing his head still lower</i>]: I do not want you to marry the Baron +[<i>Imploring.</i>] I ... I shall not allow it ... I beg you!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Whom, then, would you ask me to marry? You, perhaps, you fool? [<i>With a +rancorous laugh</i>] Are<a name="page_134" id="page_134"></a> you crazy, my darling? "I shall not allow." <span class="smcap">He!</span> +<span class="smcap">He</span> will not allow me! But it is unbearable! What business is it of +yours? [<i>Walking up and down the room, looks over her shoulder at HE, +with anger.</i>] Some fool clown, whom they can kick out of here any +minute. You make me sick with your stupid tales. Or you like slaps so +much. Fool, you couldn't invent anything better than a slap!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Without lifting his head</i>]: Forgive me, my Queen.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>He is glad when they laugh at him. Some god! No, I shan't forgive. I +know you. [<i>Makes same gesture as</i> <span class="smcap">Mancini</span>.] You have something there! +Laughs ... so nicely ... plays, plays, and then suddenly—hop! <i>Obey +him!</i> No, darling, I am not that kind! Carry my train, that is your +business—fool!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>I shall carry your train, my Queen. Forgive me. Give me back the image +of my beautiful, piteous goddess.<a name="page_135" id="page_135"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Quieting down</i>]: You're playing again?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>I am.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Laughing</i>]: You see! [<i>Sits down.</i>] Foolish <span class="smcap">He</span>.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>I see everything, my Queen. I see how beautiful you are, and how low +under your feet your poor court fool is lying. Somewhere in the abyss +his little bells are ringing. He kneels before you and prays; forgive +and pity him, my divine one. He was too impudent; he played so +cheerfully that he went too far and lost his tiny little mind, the last +bit of understanding he had saved up. Forgive me!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>All right. I forgive you. [<i>Laughs.</i>] And now will you allow me to marry +the Baron?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Also laughing</i>]: And nevertheless I will not allow it. But what does a +queen care about the permission of her enamoured fool?<a name="page_136" id="page_136"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Get up. You are forgiven. And do you know why? You think because of your +words? You are a cunning beast, <span class="smcap">He</span>! No, because of the <i>sandwiches</i>. +That's why. You were so lovely, you panted so when you brought them. +Poor darling <span class="smcap">He</span>. From to-morrow you may be at my feet again. And as soon +as I whistle, "tuwhooo"——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>I shall instantly lie down at thy feet, Consuelo. It is settled! But all +my little bells fell off to-day and——</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>Bezano appears, confused.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Alfred! You came for me?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>Yes. Will you work some more, Consuelo?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Certainly. As much as you want. But I thought, Alfred, you were mad at +me? I shan't dawdle any more.<a name="page_137" id="page_137"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>No. You didn't dawdle. Don't be offended, because I yelled so much. You +know when one has to teach, and——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>My goodness, do you think I don't understand? You are too nice, +unbearably nice, to like teaching such a fool as me. Do you think I +don't understand? Come on!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>Come on! Hello, <span class="smcap">He</span>! I haven't seen you yet to-day. How are you?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>How are you, Bezano? Wait, wait a minute—stay here a minute, both of +you—that way. Yes!</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<span class="smcap">Consuelo</span> <i>and</i> <span class="smcap">Bezano</span> <i>stand side by side, the jockey scowling</i>, +<span class="smcap">Consuelo</span> <i>laughing and flushing</i>.]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Like Adam and Eve? How foolish you are! Terribly. [<i>She runs away.</i>] I +shall only change my slippers, Alfred.<a name="page_138" id="page_138"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Consuelo! And how about Father and the Baron? They will come soon, to +take you with them.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Let them come. They can wait. Not very important people. [<i>Runs away.</i> +<span class="smcap">Bezano</span> <i>hesitatingly follows her</i>.]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Stay here for a while, Bezano. Sit down.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>What more do you want? I have no time for your nonsense.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>You can remain standing if you want. Bezano—you love her? [<i>Silence.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>I shall allow nobody to interfere with my affairs. You allow yourself +too many liberties, <span class="smcap">He</span>. I don't know you. You came from the street, and +why should I trust you?<a name="page_139" id="page_139"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>But you know the Baron? Listen. It is painful for me to pronounce these +words: she loves you. Save her from the spider! Or are you blind, and +don't see the web, which is woven in every dark corner. Get out of the +vicious circle in which you are turning around, like a blind man. Take +her away, steal her, do what you want ... kill her even, and take her to +the heavens or to the devil! But don't give her to this man! He is a +defiler of love. And if you are timid, if you are afraid to lift your +hand against her—kill the Baron! Kill!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>[<i>With a smile</i>]: And who will kill the others, to come?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>She loves you.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>Did she tell you that herself?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>What a petty, what a stupid, what a human pride! But <i>you</i> are a little +god! A god, youth! Why<a name="page_140" id="page_140"></a> don't you want to believe me? Or does the +street, from which I have come, bother you? But look, look yourself. +Look in my eyes, do such eyes lie? Yes, my face is ugly, I make faces +and grimaces, I am surrounded by laughter, but don't you see the god +behind all this, a god, like you? Look, look at me! [<span class="smcap">Bezano</span> <i>bursts out +laughing</i>.] What are you laughing at, youth?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>You look now as you did that evening in the ring. You remember? When you +were a great man, and they sent for you from the Academy, and +suddenly—Hup! <span class="smcap">He</span> Who Gets Slapped!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Laughing the same way</i>]: Yes, yes, you are right, Bezano. There is a +resemblance. [<i>With a strained expression, taking a pose</i>] "It seems to +me they sent for me from the Academy!"</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Displeased</i>]: But I don't like this play. You can present your face +for slaps if you want to, but don't dare to expose mine. [<i>Turns to +go.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Bezano!<a name="page_141" id="page_141"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Turning round</i>]: And never let me hear any more about Consuelo, and +don't dare to tell me again that I am a god! It is disgusting.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<span class="smcap">Bezano</span> <i>goes out angrily, striking his boot with his whip. HE is +alone. Wrathfully, with a tortured expression, he makes a step +towards the jockey, then stops, with soundless laughter, his head +thrown backwards. The</i> <span class="smcap">Baron</span> <i>and</i> <span class="smcap">Mancini</span> <i>find him in this +position, when they enter</i>.]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Laughing</i>]: What a cheerful chap you are, <span class="smcap">He</span>! You laugh when you are +alone. [<i>HE laughs aloud.</i>] Stop it fool! How can you stand it?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Bowing low, with a large gesture</i>]: How do you do, Baron? My humblest +respects to you, Count. I beg your pardon, Count, but you found the +clown at work. These are, so to speak, Baron, his every-day pleasures.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Lifting his eyebrows</i>]: Tsss. But you are a clever man, <span class="smcap">He</span>. I shall +ask Papa Briquet to give you a benefit performance. Shall I, <span class="smcap">He</span>?<a name="page_142" id="page_142"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Please do me the favour, Count.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Don't overdo. Be more simple, <span class="smcap">He</span>. [<i>Laughs.</i>] But how many slaps will +you get at your benefit performance, when even on weekdays they ring you +like a gong! A funny profession, isn't it, Baron?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>Very strange. But where is the Countess?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Yes, yes. I shall go for her at once. Dear child, she is so absorbed in +her benefit performance and her work. They call this jumping <i>work</i>, +Baron.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>I can wait a little. [<i>Sits down, with his silk hat on his head.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>But why? I shall hurry her up. I shall be back at once. And you, <span class="smcap">He</span>, be +a nice host, and entertain our dear guest. You will not be bored in his +company, Baron.<a name="page_143" id="page_143"></a></p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>He goes out. HE strides about the stage, smiling and glancing +from time to time at the</i> <span class="smcap">Baron</span>. <i>The latter sits with his legs +spread apart and his chin on the top of his cane. The silk hat +remains on his head. He is silent.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>In what way would you like me to entertain you, Baron?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>In no way! I don't like clowns.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Nor I Barons.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>Silence. HE puts on his derby hat, takes a chair with a large +gesture, and puts it down heavily, in front of the</i> <span class="smcap">Baron</span>. <i>HE sits +astride it, imitating the pose of the</i> <span class="smcap">Baron</span>, <i>and looks him in the +eyes. Silence.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Can you be silent very long?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>Very long.<a name="page_144" id="page_144"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Taps on the floor with his foot</i>]: And can you wait very long?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>Very long.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Until you get it?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>Until I get it. And you?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>I too.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>Both look at each other, silently, their heads close together. +From the ring one hears the strains of the Tango.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Curtain</span><a name="page_145" id="page_145"></a></p> + +<h2><a name="ACT_IV" id="ACT_IV"></a>ACT IV</h2> + +<p><i>Music in the ring. More disorder in the room than usual. All kinds of +actors' costumes hanging on pegs and lying in the corners. On the table +a bouquet of fiery-red roses, put there by some careless hand. At the +entrance, near the arch, three bareback riders are smoking and +chattering; they are all minor actors. All part their hair the same way; +two wear small moustaches; the third one is clean-shaven with a face +like a bull-dog.</i></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">The Clean-shaven One</span></p> + +<p>Go on, Henry! Ten thousand francs! It's too much even for the Baron.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">The Second</span></p> + +<p>How much are roses now?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">The Shaven</span></p> + +<p>I don't know. In winter they are certainly more expensive, but still +Henry talks nonsense. Ten thousand!<a name="page_146" id="page_146"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">The Second</span></p> + +<p>The Baron has his own hothouse. They don't cost him anything.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Henry</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Throwing away hit cigar, which has burned the tips of his fingers</i>]: +No, Grab, you're silly. There's a whole car-load full! One can smell the +roses a mile away. They're to cover the entire arena.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">The Shaven</span></p> + +<p>Only the ring.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Henry</span></p> + +<p>It's all the same. In order to cover the ring, you must have thousands +and thousands of roses. You'll see what it looks like, when they've +covered everything like a carpet. He ordered them to make it like a +carpet! Do you see, Grab?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">The Second</span></p> + +<p>What a Baron's craze! Isn't it time yet?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Henry</span></p> + +<p>No, we have time enough. I rather like it: a fiery-red tango on a +fiery-red cover of winter roses!<a name="page_147" id="page_147"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">The Shaven</span></p> + +<p>Consuelo will be galloping on roses. And Bezano?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">The Second</span></p> + +<p>And Bezano on thorns. [<i>Smiles.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">The Shaven</span></p> + +<p>That youngster has no self-respect. I'd have refused.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Henry</span></p> + +<p>But it is his job. He's got to do it. [<i>Laughs.</i>] Talk to him about +self-respect. He's as angry and proud as a little Satan.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">The Second</span></p> + +<p>No, you may say what you like, it's an excellent benefit performance. +It's a joy to look at the crowd. They're so excited.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Henry</span></p> + +<p>Tss! [<i>All throw away their cigars and cigarettes, like school boys who +are caught, and make way for</i> <span class="smcap">Zinida</span>, <i>who enters with</i> <span class="smcap">He</span>.]<a name="page_148" id="page_148"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>What are you doing here, gentlemen? Your place is at the entrance.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Henry</span></p> + +<p>[<i>With a respectful smile</i>]: We are here just for a minute, Madame +Zinida. We are going. What a successful evening! And what a glory for +Papa Briquet!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Yes. Go, and please don't leave your places. [<i>They go.</i> <span class="smcap">Zinida</span> <i>pulls a +drawer out of the desk, and puts in some papers. She is in her lion +tamer's costume.</i>] <span class="smcap">He</span>, what were you doing near my lions? You frightened +me.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Why, Duchess, I merely wanted to hear what the beasts were saying about +the benefit performance. They are pacing in their cages, and growling.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>The music makes them nervous. Sit down, <span class="smcap">He</span>. An excellent evening, and I +am so glad that Consuelo is leaving us. Have you heard about the Baron's +roses.<a name="page_149" id="page_149"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Everybody is talking about them. The Hymeneal roses!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Here are some, too. [<i>Pushes away the bouquet.</i>] You find them +everywhere. Yes, I am glad. She is superfluous here, and disturbs our +work. It is a misfortune for a cast to have in it such a beautiful and +such an ... accessible girl.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>But it is an honest marriage, Duchess, is it not?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>I don't care what it is.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Spiders, too need an improvement in their breed! Can't you imagine, +Zinida, what charming little spiders this couple will create! They will +have the face of their mother, Consuelo, and the stomach of their +father, the Baron, and thus could be an ornament for any circus-ring.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>You are malicious to-day, <span class="smcap">He</span>. You are morose.<a name="page_150" id="page_150"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>I laugh.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>You do, but without joy. Why are you without make-up?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>I am in the third act. I have time. And how does Bezano feel about this +evening. Is he glad?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>I didn't talk to Bezano. You know what I think, my friend? You, too, are +superfluous here. [<i>Silence.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>How do you want me to take that, Zinida?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Just as I said. In fact, Consuelo sold herself for nothing. What is the +Baron worth, with his poor millions? People say that you are clever, too +clever perhaps; tell me then, for how much could one buy me?<a name="page_151" id="page_151"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Looking as if he were pricing her</i>]: Only for a crown.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>A baron's crown?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>No, a royal one.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>You are far from being stupid. And you guessed that Consuelo is not +Mancini's daughter?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Startled</i>]: What! And she knows it?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Hardly. Why should she know it? Yes, she is a girl from Corsica whose +parents are unknown. He preferred to use her for business rather +than.... But according to the law, she is his daughter, Countess +Veronica Mancini.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>It is nice, to have everything done according to law, isn't it, Zinida? +But it is curious there is more<a name="page_152" id="page_152"></a> blue blood in her than in this Mancini. +One would say that it was she who found him on the street, and made him +a count and her father. Count Mancini! [<i>Laughs.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Yes, you are gloomy, <span class="smcap">He</span>. I changed my mind, you'd better stay.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Will I not be superfluous?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>When she is gone, you will not. Oh! You don't know yet, how nice it is +to be with us. What a rest for the body and mind. I understand you. I am +clever, too. Like you, I brought with me from out there my inclination +for chains, and for a long time I chained myself to whatever I could, in +order to feel firm.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Bezano?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Bezano and others; there were many, there will be many more. My red +lion, with whom I am desperately<a name="page_153" id="page_153"></a> in love, is still more terrible than +Bezano. But it is all nonsense; old habits, which we are sorry to let +go, like old servants who steal things. Leave Consuelo alone. She has +her own way.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Automobiles and diamonds?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>When did you see a beauty clad in simple cotton? If this one does not +buy her, another will. They buy off everything that is beautiful. Yes, I +know. For the first ten years she will be a sad beauty, who will attract +the eyes of the poor man on the side-walk: afterward she will begin to +paint a little around her eyes and smile, and then will take——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Her <i>chauffeur</i> or butler as a lover? You're not guessing badly, Zinida!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Am I not right? I don't want to intrude on your confidence, but to-day I +am sorry for you, <span class="smcap">He</span>. What can you do against Fate? Don't be offended, +my friend, by the words of a woman. I like you; you<a name="page_154" id="page_154"></a> are not beautiful, +nor young, nor rich, and your place is——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>On the side-walk, from which one looks at the beauties. [<i>Laughs.</i>] And +if I don't want to?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>What does it matter, your "want" or "don't want"? I am sorry for you, my +poor friend, but if you are a strong man, and I think you are, then +there is only one way for you. To forget.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>You think that that's being strong? And you are saying this, you, Queen +Zinida, who want to awaken the feeling of love, even in the heart of a +lion? For one second of an illusory possession, you are ready to pay +with your life, and still you advise me to forget! Give me your strong +hand, my beautiful lady; see how much strength there is in this +pressure, and don't pity me.</p> + +<p>[<i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Briquet</span> <i>and</i> <span class="smcap">Mancini</span>. <i>The latter it reserved, and +self-consciously imposing. He has a new suit, but the same cane, and the +same noiseless smile of a satyr.</i>]<a name="page_155" id="page_155"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Whispering</i>]: Will you stay?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Yes. I shan't go away.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>How are you, my dear? But you are dazzling, my dear! I swear you are +marvellous! Your lion would be an ass, if he did not kiss your hand, as +I do.... [<i>Kisses her hand.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>May I congratulate you, Count?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Yes, merci. [<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">He</span>]: How are you, my dear?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Good evening, Count!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Zinida, the Count wants to pay immediately for the breach of contract +with Consuelo ... the Countess's contract. Don't you remember, Mother, +how much it is?<a name="page_156" id="page_156"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>I'll look it up, Papa.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Yes, please. Consuelo will not return here any more. We leave to-morrow.</p> + +<p>[<span class="smcap">Zinida</span> <i>and</i> <span class="smcap">Briquet</span> <i>search among the papers</i>. <span class="smcap">He</span> <i>takes</i> <span class="smcap">Mancini</span> +<i>roughly by the elbow, and draws him aside.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>In a low voice</i>]: How are your girls, Mancini?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>What girls? What is this, stupidity or blackmail? Look out, sir, be +careful, the policeman is not far.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>You are much too severe, Mancini. I assumed, that since we are +<i>tête-á-tête</i>....</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>But tell me, what kind of <i>tête-á-tête</i> is possible, between a clown and +me? [<i>Laughs.</i>] You are stupid, <span class="smcap">He</span>. You should say what you want, and +not ask questions!<a name="page_157" id="page_157"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Three thousand francs, Count.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Is that all? For Consuelo? All right. I'll tell the Baron.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>You took——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Don't, Mother, don't.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Count, you drew in advance, I have it written down, eighty francs and +twenty centimes. Will you pay this money, too?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Certainly, certainly. You will get three thousand and one hundred. +[<i>Laughing</i>] Twenty centimes! I never thought I could be so accurate. +[<i>Seriously</i>] Yes, my friends. My daughter Consuelo—the Countess—and +the Baron, expressed their desire to bid farewell to the whole cast.<a name="page_158" id="page_158"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>The Baron, too?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Yes, Auguste, too. They want to do it during the intermission. +Therefore, I ask you to gather here ... the more decent ones ... but +please don't make it too crowded! <span class="smcap">He</span>, will you, sir, be kind enough to +run into the buffet and tell them to bring right away a basket of +champagne, bottles and glasses—you understand?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Yes, Count.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Wait a minute, what's the hurry—what is this, a new costume? You are +all burning like the devils in hell!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>You do me too much honour, Count, I am not a devil. I am merely a poor +sinner who the devils are frying a little. [<i>He goes out, bowing like a +clown.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>A gifted chap, but too cunning.<a name="page_159" id="page_159"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>It's the Tango colour, in honour of your daughter, Count. He needs it +for a new stunt, which he doesn't want to tell in advance. Don't you +want to sit down, Count?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Auguste is waiting for me, but ... it's all right. [<i>Takes a seat.</i>] +Nevertheless I am sorry to leave you, my friend. High society, +certainly, prerogatives of the title, castles of exalted noblemen, but +where could I find such freedom, and ... such simplicity.... And +besides, these announcements, these burning posters, which take your +breath in the morning, they had something which summoned, which +encouraged.... <i>There</i>, my friends, I shall become old.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>But pleasures of a higher kind, Count. Why are you silent, Zinida?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>I'm listening.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>By the way, my dear, how do you like my suit?<a name="page_160" id="page_160"></a> You have wonderful taste. +[<i>Spreads out his lace tie and lace cuffs.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>I like it. You look like a nobleman of the courts of long ago.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Yes? But don't you think it is too conspicuous? Who wears lace and satin +now? This dirty democracy will soon make us dress ourselves in sack +cloth. [<i>With a sigh</i>] Auguste told me that this jabot was out of place.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>The Baron is too severe.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Yes, but it seems to me he is right. I am a little infected with your +fancy. [<span class="smcap">He</span> <i>returns. Two waiters follow him, carrying a basket of +champagne and glasses. They prepare everything on the table.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Ah! <i>merci</i>, <span class="smcap">He</span>. But, please, none of this bourgeoise exploding of +corks; be slower and more modest. Send the bill to Baron Regnard. Then, +we will be here, Briquet. I must go.<a name="page_161" id="page_161"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Looks at her watch</i>]: Yes, the act is going to end soon.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Heavens! [<i>Disappears in a hurry.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>The devil take him!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Pointing to the waiter</i>]: Not so loud, Louis!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>No! The devil take him! And why couldn't you help me, Mother? You left +me alone to talk to him. High Society! High pleasures! Swindler! [<span class="smcap">He</span> +<i>and</i> <span class="smcap">Zinida</span> <i>laugh. The waiters smile.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>[<i>To the waiters</i>]: What are you laughing about? You can go. We will +help ourselves. Whiskey and soda, Jean! [<i>In a low and angry voice</i>] +Champagne! [<i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Jackson</span>, <i>in his clown's costume.</i>]<a name="page_162" id="page_162"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>A whiskey and soda for me, too! At least I hear some laughter here. +Those idiots have simply forgotten how to laugh. My sun was rising and +setting and crawling all over the ring—— and not a smile! Look at my +bottom, shines like a mirror! [<i>Turns around quickly.</i>] Beg your pardon, +Zinida. And you don't look badly to-night, <span class="smcap">He</span>. Look out for your cheeks. +I hate beauties.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>A benefit performance crowd!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Looking in a hand mirror, correcting his make-up</i>]: In the orchestra +there are some Barons and Egyptian mummies. I got a belly-ache from +fright. I am an honest clown. I can't stand it when they look at me as +if I had stolen a handkerchief. <span class="smcap">He</span>, please give them a good many slaps +to-night.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Be quiet, Jim. I shall avenge you. [<i><span class="smcap">He</span> goes out.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>And how is Bezano?<a name="page_163" id="page_163"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Grumbling</i>]: Bezano! A crazy success. But he is crazy, he will break +his neck to-morrow. Why does he run such a risk? Or perhaps he has +wings, like a god? Devil take it. It's disgusting to look at him. It's +not work any more.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>You are right, Jim! It is not work any more. To your health, old +comrade, Jackson.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>To yours, Louis.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>It is not work any more, since these Barons came here! Do you hear? They +are laughing. But I am indignant, I am indignant, Jim! What do they want +here, these Barons? Let them steal hens in other hen roosts, and leave +us in peace. Ah! Had I been Secretary of the Interior, I should have +made an iron fence between us and those people.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>I am very sorry myself for our dear little Consuelo. I don't know why, +but it seems to me that we<a name="page_164" id="page_164"></a> all look to-day more like swindlers than +honest artists. Don't you think so, Zinida?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Everybody does what he wants. It's Consuelo's business and her father's.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>No, Mother, that's not true! Not everybody does what he wants, but it +turns out this way ... devil knows why.</p> + +<p><i>[Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Angelica</span> <i>and</i> <span class="smcap">Thomas</span>, <i>an athlete.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Angelica</span></p> + +<p>Is this where we're going to have champagne?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>And you're glad already?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thomas</span></p> + +<p>There it is! Oh, oh, what a lot!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Angelica</span></p> + +<p>The Count told me to come here. I met him.<a name="page_165" id="page_165"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Angrily</i>]: All right, if he said so, but there is no reason to enjoy +it. Look out, Angelica, you will have a bad end. I see you through and +through. How does she work, Thomas?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thomas</span></p> + +<p>Very well.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Angelica</span></p> + +<p>[<i>In a low voice</i>]: How angry Papa Briquet is to-night.</p> + +<p>[Enter <span class="smcap">He</span>, <span class="smcap">Tilly</span>, <span class="smcap">Polly</span>, <i>and other actors, all in their costumes.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Tilly</span></p> + +<p>Do you really want champagne?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Polly</span></p> + +<p>I don't want it at all. Do you, Tilly?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Tilly</span></p> + +<p>And I don't want it. <span class="smcap">He</span>, did you see how the Count walks? [<i>Walks, +imitating</i> <span class="smcap">Mancini</span>. <i>Laughter.</i>]<a name="page_166" id="page_166"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Polly</span></p> + +<p>Let me be the Baron. Take my arm. Look out, ass, you stepped on my +beloved family tree!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Angelica</span></p> + +<p>It'll soon be finished. Consuelo is galloping now. It is her waltz. What +a success she is having!</p> + +<p>[<i>All listen to the waltz.</i> <span class="smcap">Tilly</span> <i>and</i> <span class="smcap">Polly</span> <i>are singing it softly.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Angelica</span></p> + +<p>She is so beautiful! Are those her flowers?</p> + +<p>[<i>They listen. Suddenly, a crash as if a broken wall were tumbling down: +applause, shouting, screaming; much motion on the stage. The actors are +pouring champagne. New ones come in, talking and laughing. When they +notice the director and the champagne, they become quiet and modest.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Voices</span></p> + +<p>They're coming! What a success! I should say, since all the orchestra +seats.... And what will it be when they see the Tango? Don't be envious, +Alphonse.<a name="page_167" id="page_167"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Silence! Not so much noise, please! Zinida, look here, don't be so +quiet! High society!</p> + +<p>[<i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Consuelo</span>, <i>on the arm of the</i> <span class="smcap">Baron</span> <i>who is stiff and erect. +She is happy.</i> <span class="smcap">Mancini</span>, <i>serious and happy. Behind them, riders, actors, +actresses. The</i> <span class="smcap">Baron</span> <i>has in his button-hole a fiery-red rose. All +applaud and cry: "Bravo, bravo!"</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Friends ... my dears ... Father, I can't ... [<i>Throws herself into</i> +<span class="smcap">Mancini's</span> <i>arms, and hides her face on his shoulders.</i> <span class="smcap">Mancini</span> <i>looks +with a smile over her head at the</i> <span class="smcap">Baron. Baron</span> <i>smiles slightly, but +remains earnest and motionless. A new burst of applause.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Enough, children! Enough!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Calm yourself, calm yourself, my child. How they all love you! [<i>Taking +a step forward</i>] Ladies and gentlemen, Baron Regnard did me the honour +yesterday, to ask for the hand of my daughter, the<a name="page_168" id="page_168"></a> Countess Veronica, +whom you knew under the name of Consuelo. Please take your glasses.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>No, I am still Consuelo, to-night, and I shall always be Consuelo! +Zinida, dear! [<i>Falls on the neck of</i> <span class="smcap">Zinida</span>. <i>Fresh applause.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Stop it! Silence! Take your glasses. What are you standing here for? If +you came, then take the glasses.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Tilly</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Trembling</i>]: They are frightened. You take yours first, Papa, and we +will follow.</p> + +<p>[<i>They take the glasses.</i> <span class="smcap">Consuelo</span> <i>is near the</i> <span class="smcap">Baron</span>, <i>holding the +sleeve of his dress coat with her left hand. In her right hand, she has +a glass of champagne, which spills over.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>You are spilling your wine, Consuelo.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Ah! It is nothing! I am frightened, too. Are you, Father?<a name="page_169" id="page_169"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Silly child. [<i>An awkward silence.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>[<i>With a step forward</i>]: Countess! As the director of the circus, who +was happy enough ... to witness ... many times ... your successes....</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>I do not <i>like</i> this, Papa Briquet! I am Consuelo. What do you want to +do with me? I shall cry. I don't want this "Countess." Give me a kiss, +Briquet!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Ah, Consuelo! Books have killed you.</p> + +<p>[<i>Kisses her with tears. Laughter, applause. The clowns cluck like hens, +bark, and express their emotions in many other ways. The motley crowd of +clowns, which is ready for the pantomime, becomes more and more lively. +The</i> <span class="smcap">Baron</span> <i>is motionless, there is a wide space around him; the people +touch glasses with him in a hurry, and go off to one side. With</i> +<span class="smcap">Consuelo</span> <i>they clink willingly and cheerfully. She kisses the women.</i>]<a name="page_170" id="page_170"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>Silence! Consuelo, from to-day on, I extinguish my sun. Let the dark +night come after you leave us. You were a nice comrade and worker, we +all loved you and will love the traces of your little feet on the sand. +Nothing remains to us!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>You are so good, so good, Jim. So good that there is no one better. And +your sun is better than all the other suns. I laughed so much at it. +Alfred, dear, why don't you come? I was looking for you.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>My congratulations, Countess.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Alfred, I am Consuelo!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Bezano</span></p> + +<p>When you are on horseback; but here—I congratulate you, Countess. [<i>He +passes, only slightly touching</i> <span class="smcap">Consuelo's</span> <i>glass</i>. <span class="smcap">Consuelo</span> <i>still +holds it</i>. <span class="smcap">Mancini</span> <i>looks at the</i> <span class="smcap">Baron</span> <i>with a smile</i>. <i>The latter is +motionless.</i>]<a name="page_171" id="page_171"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Nonsense, Bezano. You are making Consuelo unhappy. She is a good +comrade.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>No, it's all right.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Angelica</span></p> + +<p>You'll dance the Tango with her to-night, so how is she a countess?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Tilly</span></p> + +<p>May I clink glasses with you, Consuelo? You know Polly has died of grief +already, and I am going to die. I have such a weak stomach.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>Laughter</i>; <span class="smcap">Baron</span> <i>shows slight displeasure</i>. <i>General motion.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Enough, enough! The intermission is over.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Already? It's so nice here.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>I shall prolong it. They can wait. Tell them, Thomas.<a name="page_172" id="page_172"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Auguste, the musicians of the orchestra, too, ask permission to +congratulate you and Consuelo. Do you ...?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>Certainly, certainly.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>Enter crowd of musicians. The conductor, an old Italian, lifts +his glass solemnly and without looking at the</i> <span class="smcap">Baron</span>.]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">The Conductor</span></p> + +<p>Consuelo! They call you Countess here, but for me you were and are +<i>Consuelo</i>.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Certainly!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">The Conductor</span></p> + +<p>Consuelo! My violins and bassoons, my trumpets and drums, all are +drinking your health. Be happy, dear child, as you were happy here. And +we shall conserve for ever in our hearts the fair memory of our +light-winged fairy, who guided our bows so long. I have finished! Give +my love to our beautiful Italy, Consuelo.<a name="page_173" id="page_173"></a></p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>Applause, compliments. The musicians one after another clink +glasses and go out into the corridor.</i> <span class="smcap">Consuelo</span> <i>is almost +crying</i>.]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Don't be so sensitive, my child, it is indecent. Had I known that you +would respond this way to this comedy—Auguste, look how touched this +little heart is!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>Calm yourself, Consuelo.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>It is all right. Ah, Father, listen!</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>The musicians are playing the Tango in the corridor. +Exclamations.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>You see. It is for you.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>They are so nice. My Tango! I want to dance. Who is going to dance with +me? [<i>Looks around, seeking</i> <span class="smcap">Bezano</span>, <i>who turns away sadly</i>.] Who, +then?<a name="page_174" id="page_174"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Voices</span></p> + +<p>Baron! Let the Baron dance! Baron!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>All right. [<i>Takes</i> <span class="smcap">Consuelo's</span> <i>arm, and stands in the centre of a +circle which is formed</i>.] I do not know how to dance the Tango, but I +shall hold tight. Dance, Consuelo. [<i>He stands with legs spread, heavily +and awkwardly, like an iron-moulded man, holding</i> <span class="smcap">Consuelo's</span> <i>arm firmly +and seriously</i>.]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Applauding</i>]: Bravo! Bravo! [<span class="smcap">Consuelo</span> <i>makes a few restless movements, +and pulls her arm away</i>.]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>No, I can't this way. How stupid! Let me go! [<i>She goes to</i> <span class="smcap">Zinida</span> <i>and +embraces her, as if hiding herself</i>. <i>The music still plays. The</i> <span class="smcap">Baron</span> +<i>goes off quietly to the side</i>. <i>There is an unfriendly silence among +the cast. They shrug their shoulders.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Alone</i>]: Bravo! Bravo! It is charming, it is exquisite!<a name="page_175" id="page_175"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>Not entirely, Count.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<span class="smcap">Tilly</span> <i>and</i> <span class="smcap">Polly</span> <i>imitate the</i> <span class="smcap">Baron</span> <i>and</i> <span class="smcap">Consuelo</span> <i>without +moving from their places</i>.]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Tilly</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Shrieking</i>]: Let me go!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Polly</span></p> + +<p>No, I'll not. Dance!</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>The music stops abruptly. General, too loud laughter; the clowns +bark and roar. Papa</i> <span class="smcap">Briquet</span> <i>gesticulates, in order to +re-establish silence</i>. <i>The</i> <span class="smcap">Baron</span> <i>is apparently as indifferent as +before</i>.]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Really these vagabonds are becoming too impertinent. [<i>Shrugging his +shoulders</i>] It smells of the stable. You cannot help it, Auguste!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>Don't be upset, Count.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Holding his glass, approaches the</i> <span class="smcap">Baron</span>]: Baron. Will you permit me +to make a toast?<a name="page_176" id="page_176"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>Make it.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>To your dance! [<i>Slight laughter in the crowd.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>I don't dance!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Then another one, Baron. Let us drink to those who know how to wait +longer, until they get it.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>I do not accept any toasts which I do not understand. Say it more +simply.</p> + +<p>[<i>Voice of a woman: "Bravo, HE!</i>" <i>Slight laughter.</i></p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span> <i>says something hastily to</i> <span class="smcap">Briquet</span>; <i>the latter spreads +his arms in gesture of helplessness</i>. <span class="smcap">Jackson</span> <i>takes HE by the +arm</i>.]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>Beat it, <span class="smcap">He</span>! The Baron doesn't like jokes.<a name="page_177" id="page_177"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>But I want to drink with the Baron. What can be simpler? Simpler? Baron, +let us drink to the very small distance which will always remain 'twixt +the cup and the lip! [<i>Spills his wine, and laughs.</i>]</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>The</i> <span class="smcap">Baron</span> <i>turns his back on him, indifferently</i>. <i>The music +plays in the ring. The bell rings.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Relieved</i>]: There! To the ring, ladies and gentlemen, to the ring, to +the ring!</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>The actresses run out. The crowd becomes smaller; laughter and +voices.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Much excited, whispers to the</i> <span class="smcap">Baron</span>]: "Auguste, Auguste——"</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>[<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Zinida</span>]: Thank heaven they're beginning. Ah, Mother, I asked you +... but you want a scandal by all means, and you always——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Let me alone, Louis.</p> + +<p>[<i>HE approaches Consuelo, who is alone.</i>]<a name="page_178" id="page_178"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span>, deary, how are you? I thought you didn't want even to come near me. +[<i>In a low voice</i>] Did you notice Bezano?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>I was waiting for my turn, Queen. It was so difficult to get through the +crowd to approach you.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Through the crowd? [<i>With a sad smile</i>] I am quite alone. What do you +want, Father?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>Child! Auguste....</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Pulling away her hand</i>]: Let me alone! I'll soon be—— Come +here, <span class="smcap">He</span>. What did you say to him? They all laughed. I couldn't +understand. What?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>I joked, Consuelo.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Please don't, <span class="smcap">He</span>, don't make him angry; he is so<a name="page_179" id="page_179"></a> terrible. Did you see +how he pressed my arm? I wanted to scream. [<i>With tears in her eyes</i>] He +hurt me!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>It's not too late yet. Refuse him.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>It is too late, <span class="smcap">He</span>. Don't talk about it.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Do you want it? I will take you away from here.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Where to? [<i>Laughs.</i>] Ah, my dear little silly boy, where could you take +me to. All right, be quiet. How pale you are! You too, love me? Don't +<span class="smcap">He</span>, please don't! Why do they all love me?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>You are so beautiful!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>No, no. It's not true. They must not love me. I was still a little +<a name="page_180" id="page_180"></a>cheerful, but when they began to speak ... so nicely ... and about +Italy ... and to bid farewell, as if I were dying, I thought I should +begin to cry. Don't talk, don't talk, but drink to ... my happiness. +[<i>With a sad smile</i>] To my happiness, <span class="smcap">He</span>. What are you doing?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>I am throwing away the glass from which you drank with the others. I +shall give you another one. Wait a minute. [<i>Goes to pour champagne.</i> +<span class="smcap">Consuelo</span> <i>walks about thoughtfully</i>. <i>Almost all are gone. Only the +principal figures are left.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Coming to her</i>]: But it is really becoming indecent, Veronica. Auguste +is so nice, he is waiting for you, and you talk here with this clown. +Some stupid secrets. They're looking at you—it is becoming noticeable. +It is high time, Veronica, to get rid of these habits.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Loudly</i>]: Let me alone, Father! I want to do so, and will do so. They +are all my friends. Do you hear? Let me alone!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>Don't, Count. Please, Consuelo, talk to whomever you please and as much +as you want. Would you<a name="page_181" id="page_181"></a> like a cigar, Count? Dear Briquet, please order +them to prolong the intermission a little more.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>With pleasure, Baron. The orchestra crowd can be a little angry. [<i>Goes, +and returns shortly.</i> <i>HE gives a glass to</i> <span class="smcap">Consuelo</span>.]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Here is your glass. To your happiness, to your freedom, Consuelo!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>And where is yours? We must touch our glasses.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>You leave half.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Must I drink so much? <span class="smcap">He</span>, deary, I shall become drunk. I still have to +ride.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>No, you will not be drunk. Dear little girl, did you forget that I am +your magician? Be quiet and<a name="page_182" id="page_182"></a> drink. I charmed the wine. My witchery is +in it. Drink, goddess.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Lingeringly</i>]: What kind eyes you have. But why are you so pale?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Because I love you. Look at my kind eyes and drink; give yourself up to +my charms, goddess! You shall fall asleep, and wake again, as before. Do +you remember? And you shall see your country, your sky....</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Bringing the glass to her lips</i>]: I shall see all this; is that true?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Growing paler</i>]: Yes! Awake, goddess, and remember the time when, +covered with snow-white sea-foam, thou didst emerge from the sky blue +waters. Remember heaven, and the low eastern wind, and the whisper of +the foam at thy marble feet....</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Drinking</i>]: There! Look! Just a half! Take<a name="page_183" id="page_183"></a> it. But what is the matter +with you? Are you laughing or crying?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>I am laughing and crying.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Pushing HE away, slightly</i>]: Enough, Countess, my patience is +exhausted. If Auguste is good enough to allow it, then I, your +Father—Your arm, Countess! Will you step aside, sir?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>I am tired.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>You are not too tired to chatter and drink wine with a clown, and when +your duty calls you—Briquet! Tell them to ring the bell. It is time.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>I am tired, Father.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Count, it is cruel. Don't you see how pale she has become?<a name="page_184" id="page_184"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>What is the matter with you, dear little Consuelo?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Nothing.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>She simply needs a rest, Baron. She hasn't sat down yet ... and so much +excitement.... Sit down here, dear child. Cover yourself and rest a +little. Men are so cruel!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>I still have to work. [<i>Closing her eyes.</i>] And the roses, are they +ready?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Ready, dear, ready. You will have such an extraordinary carpet. You will +gallop as if on air. Rest.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Polly</span></p> + +<p>Do you want some moosic? We will play you a song; do you want it?<a name="page_185" id="page_185"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Smiling, eyes closed</i>]: Yes, I do.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>The clowns play a soft and naïve song: tilly-polly, tilly-polly. +General silence.</i> <i>HE sits in the corner with his face turned +away.</i> <span class="smcap">Jackson</span> <i>watches him out of the corner of his eye, and +drinks wine, lazily</i>. <i>The</i> <span class="smcap">Baron</span>, <i>in his usual pose, wide and +heavily spread legs, looks at the pale face of</i> <span class="smcap">Consuelo</span>, <i>with his +bulging motionless eyes</i>.]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>With a sudden cry</i>]: Ah! Pain!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>What is it, Consuelo?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>My child! Are you sick! Calm yourself.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Growing pale</i>]: Wait a moment.... She was too much excited.... +Consuelo!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Gets up, looking before her with wide-open eyes, as if she were +listening to something within herself</i>]:<a name="page_186" id="page_186"></a> Ah! I feel pain. Here at the +heart. Father, what is it? I am afraid. What is it? My feet too ... I +can't stand.... [<i>Falls on divan, her eyes wide open.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Running about</i>]: Bring a doctor! Heavens, it is terrible! Auguste, +Baron.... It never happened to her. It is nerves, nerves.... Calm +yourself, calm, child——</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Bring a doctor! [<i>Somebody runs for a doctor.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>[<i>In a voice full of fear</i>]: <span class="smcap">He</span>, what is the matter with you?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>It is death, Consuelo, my little Queen. I killed you. You are dying.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>He cries, loudly and bitterly.</i> <span class="smcap">Consuelo</span> <i>with a scream, closes +her eyes, and becomes silent and quiet</i>. <i>All are in terrible +agitation. The</i> <span class="smcap">Baron</span> <i>is motionless, and sees only</i> <span class="smcap">Consuelo</span>.]</p></div> + +<p><a name="page_187" id="page_187"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Furious</i>]: You are lying, rascal! Damned clown! What did you give her? +You poisoned her! Murderer! Bring a doctor!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>A doctor will not help. You are dying, my little Queen. Consuelo! +Consuelo!</p> + +<p>[<span class="smcap">Bezano</span> <i>rushes in, cries</i>: "<span class="smcap">Briquet!</span>" <i>becomes silent and looks with +horror at</i> <span class="smcap">Consuelo</span>. <i>Somebody else comes in.</i> <span class="smcap">Briquet</span> <i>is making +gestures for someone to close the door</i>.]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>[<i>In a dull and distant voice</i>]: You are joking, <span class="smcap">He</span>? Don't frighten me. +I am so frightened. Is that death? I don't want it. Ah, <span class="smcap">He</span>, my darling +<span class="smcap">He</span>, tell me that you are joking, I am afraid, my dear, golden <span class="smcap">He</span>!</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>HE pushes away the</i> <span class="smcap">Baron</span>, <i>with a commanding gesture, and stands +in his place near</i> <span class="smcap">Consuelo</span>. <i>The</i> <span class="smcap">Baron</span> <i>stands as before, seeing +only</i> <span class="smcap">Consuelo</span>.]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Yes, I am joking. Don't you hear how I laugh, Consuelo? They all laugh +at you here, my silly child.<a name="page_188" id="page_188"></a> Don't laugh, Jim. She is tired, and wants +to sleep. How can you laugh, Jim! Sleep my dear, sleep my heart, sleep +my love.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Yes, I have no more pain. Why did you joke that way, and frighten me? +Now I laugh at myself. You told me, didn't you, that I ... should ... +live ... eternally?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>Yes, Consuelo! You shall live eternally. Sleep. Be calm. [<i>Lifts up his +arms, as if straining with all his forces to lift her soul higher.</i>] How +easy it is now! How much light, how many lights are burning about +you.... The light is blinding you.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>Yes, light.... Is that the ring?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>No, it is the sea and the sun ... what a sun! Don't you feel that you +are the foam, white sea-foam, and you are flying to the sun? You feel +light, you have no body, you are flying higher, my love!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Consuelo</span></p> + +<p>I am flying. I am the sea-foam, and this is the sun, it shines ... so +strong.... I feel well.<a name="page_189" id="page_189"></a></p> + +<p>[<i>She dies. Silence. HE stays a moment with lifted arms, then takes a +long look, lets his arms fall, and shakingly goes off to one side. He +stands still for a moment, then sits down, drops hit head on his hands, +and struggles lonesomely with the torpidity of coming death.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Slowly</i>]: She has fallen asleep, Mother?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Dropping the dead hand</i>]: I am afraid not.... Step aside, Louis. +Baron, it is better for you to step aside. Baron! Do you hear me? +[<i>Weeps.</i>] She is dead, Louis.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>The clowns and</i> <span class="smcap">Briquet</span> <i>are crying</i>. <span class="smcap">Mancini</span> <i>is overwhelmed</i>. +<i>The</i> <span class="smcap">Baron</span> <i>and HE are motionless, each in his place</i>.]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Drawing out a large prismatic clown's handkerchief to wipe away his +tears</i>]: Faded, like a flower. Sleep, little Consuelo! The only thing +that remains of you is the trace of your little feet on the sand. +[<i>Cries.</i>] Ah, what did you do, what did you do, <span class="smcap">He</span>!... It would have +been better if you had never come to us. [<i>There it music in the +ring.</i>]<a name="page_190" id="page_190"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Gesticulating</i>]: The music! Stop the music! They are crazy there. What +a misfortune!</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>Someone runs off.</i> <span class="smcap">Zinida</span> <i>approaches the crying</i> <span class="smcap">Bezano</span> <i>and +strokes his bowed, pomaded head</i>. <i>When he notices her, he catches +her hand and presses it to his eyes.</i> <i>The</i> <span class="smcap">Baron</span> <i>takes the rose +from his button-hole, tears off the petals, and drops it, grinding +it with his foot</i>. <i>A few pale faces peer through the door, the +same masquerade crowd.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Over the head of</i> <span class="smcap">Bezano</span>]: Louis, we must call the police.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Awakening from his stupor, screams</i>]: The police! Call the police! +It's a murder! I am Count Mancini, I am Count Mancini! They will cut off +your head, murderer, damned clown, thief! I myself will kill you, +rascal! Ah, you! [<i>HE lifts his heavy head with difficulty.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>They will cut off my head? And what more.... Your Excellency?<a name="page_191" id="page_191"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Baron</span></p> + +<p>Sir! Listen, sir! I am going for the police. Stop it, sir. [<i>He suddenly +takes a step forward, and looking HE in the eyes, speaks in a hoarse +voice, with a cough, holding one hand at his throat.</i>] I am the witness. +I saw. I am a witness. I saw how he put poison ... I——</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>He leaves the room, suddenly, with the same straight, heavy +steps. All move away from him, frightened. HE drops his head again. +From time to time a tremor shakes his body.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Clasping his hands</i>]: Then it is all true? Poisoned! What a vile man +you are, <span class="smcap">He</span>. Is this the way to play? Now wait for the last slap of the +executioner! [<i>Makes the gesture around his neck, of the guillotine. +Tilly and Polly repeat the gesture.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Zinida</span></p> + +<p>Leave his soul alone, Jim. He was a man, and he loved. Happy Consuelo!</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>A shot is heard in the corridor.</i> <span class="smcap">Thomas</span>, <i>frightened, runs in +and points to his head</i>.]</p></div> + +<p><a name="page_192" id="page_192"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thomas</span></p> + +<p>Baron ... Baron ... his head.... He shot himself?...</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Throwing his arms up</i>]: God! What is it? The Baron? What a calamity +for our circus.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mancini</span></p> + +<p>The Baron? The Baron? No. What are you standing here for? Ah!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Briquet</span></p> + +<p>Calm down, Count. Who would have believed it? Such a respectable ... +gentleman!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Lifting his head with difficulty; he sees only dimly with his dulled +eyes</i>]: What more? What happened?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thomas</span></p> + +<p>The Baron shot himself. Honestly. Straight here! He's lying out yonder.<a name="page_193" id="page_193"></a></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Thinking it over</i>]: Baron? [<i>Laughs.</i>] Then the Baron burst?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Jackson</span></p> + +<p>Stop it! It's shameless. A man died and you.... What's the matter with +you, <span class="smcap">He</span>?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">He</span></p> + +<p>[<i>Stands up, lifted to his feet by the last gleam of consciousness and +life, speaks strongly and indignantly</i>]: You loved her so much, Baron? +So much? My Consuelo? And you want to be ahead of me even <i>there</i>? No! I +am coming. We shall prove then whose she is to be for ever....</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p class="hang">[<i>He catches at his throat, falls on his back. People run to him. +General agitation.</i>]</p></div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Curtain</span></p> + +<hr class="full" /> + + + + + + + +<pre> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of He Who Gets Slapped, by +Leonid Nikolayevich Andreyev + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK HE WHO GETS SLAPPED *** + +***** This file should be named 37961-h.htm or 37961-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/3/7/9/6/37961/ + +Produced by Chuck Greif and the Online Distributed +Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This book was +produced from scanned images of public domain material +from the Google Print project.) + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: He Who Gets Slapped + A Play in Four Acts + +Author: Leonid Nikolayevich Andreyev + +Translator: Gregory Zilboorg + +Release Date: November 9, 2011 [EBook #37961] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ASCII + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK HE WHO GETS SLAPPED *** + + + + +Produced by Chuck Greif and the Online Distributed +Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This book was +produced from scanned images of public domain material +from the Google Print project.) + + + + + + + + +HE WHO GETS SLAPPED + +[Illustration: _Setting by Lee Simonson_ + +_Photograph by Francis Bruguierre_ + +A SCENE FROM THE THEATRE GUILD PRODUCTION] + + + + +He Who Gets Slapped + +A PLAY IN FOUR ACTS + +BY LEONID ANDREYEV + +TRANSLATED FROM THE RUSSIAN +WITH AN INTRODUCTION BY + +GREGORY ZILBOORG + +[Illustration: colophon] + +NEW YORK + +BRENTANO'S + +Publishers + +COPYRIGHT, 1922, BY +BRENTANO'S + +COPYRIGHT, 1921, BY +THE DIAL PUBLISHING COMPANY + +_All rights reserved_ + +_Printed in the United States of America_ + +The first regular production of HE in English was by The Theatre Guild +on January 9, 1922, at the Garrick Theatre, New York. The original cast +was as follows: + + _Tilly_ } { Philip Leigh + _Polly_ } _Musical Clowns_ { Edgar Stehli + + _Briquet, Manager of the Circus_ Ernest Cossart + _Mancini, Consuelo's Father_ Frank Reicher + _Zinida, a Lion Tamer_ Helen Westley + + _Angelica_ } _Trapeze Performers_ { Martha Bryan Allen + _Estelle_ } { Helen Sheridan + + _Francois_ Edwin R. Wolfe + _HE_ Richard Bennett + _Jackson, a Clown_ Henry Travers + _Consuelo, the Equestrian Tango Queen_ Margalo Gillmore + _Alfred Bezano, a Bareback Rider_ John Rutherford + _Baron Regnard_ Louis Calvert + _A Gentleman_ John Blair + _Wardrobe Lady_ Kathryn Wilson + _Usher_ Charles Cheltenham + _Conductor_ Edwin R. Wolfe + _Pierre_ Philip Loeb + _A Sword Dancer_ Renee Wilde + _Ballet Master_ Oliver Grymes + + { Vera Tompkins + { Anne Tonnetti + _Ballet Girls_ { Marguerite Wernimont + { Frances Ryan + + _Actresses in Circus Pantomime_ { Adele St. Maur + { Sara Enright + + _Thomas, a Strong Man_ Dante Voltaire + _A Snake Charmer_ Joan Clement + _A Contortionist_ Richard Coolidge + _A Riding Master_ Kenneth Lawton + _A Juggler_ Francis G. Sadtler + + _Acrobats_ { Sears Taylor + { Luigi Belastro + +_Stage Manager_, Philip Loeb _Ass't Stage Manager_, Oliver Grymes + +_Produced under the direction of_ ROBERT MILTON + +_Settings and Costumes by_ LEE SIMONSON + + "Stage, screen, and amateur rights for the translation and the + original play in all English-speaking countries are owned and + controlled by The Theatre Guild, 65 West 35th St., New York City. + No public readings or performances may be given without their + written consent." + + + + +INTRODUCTION + + +Leonid Andreyev as a literary figure was born in the gloomy atmosphere +of depression of the 'nineties. He thus appeared upon the literary stage +at a period when the old and splendid generation of Turgenev and +Dostoevsky had already passed away and when Chekhov had begun to +demonstrate before the reader the gloom and colourlessness of Russia +life. + +This was a period when the social forces of Russia were half destroyed +by the reaction under Alexander III, and when the young generation was +trying to rest and to get away from the strain of social hopes and +despair. This period, briefly speaking, was a period of melancholy, of +commonplace, every-day preoccupations, and of dull _terre a terre_ +philosophy. + +It must be borne in mind that literature was the only outlet for the +moral and intellectual forces of Russia. Political reaction, censorship, +complete absence of civil liberties, and the cult of popular ignorance +upon which Czardom based its power, all these made the written artistic +word almost the sole expression of Russian social longings and +idealistic expectations. + +It is therefore only natural that Russian literature in its general +development is closely interwoven with the political and social +conditions of Russia at the given moment. The 'nineties were a period of +depression. After the assassination of Alexander II (1881) and the +subsequent tightening of the chain of reaction, combined with a general +_debacle_ in progressive and radical circles, the Russian intellectual +fell into a state of pessimism. His faith in an early liberation was +shattered, his hope of recovery was broken. Chekhov is the most +characteristic representative of that period; he himself called his +heroes "the dull-grey people." + +Maxim Gorki and Leonid Andreyev appeared almost simultaneously at that +time. The former brought the message of a rebel spirit which forecast a +new moral upheaval, a new social protest; the latter appeared clad in +the gloom of his time, which he strangely combined with a spirit of +almost anarchistic revolt. From the point of view of historical +completeness Leonid Andreyev is more representative of the epoch, +demonstrating at once two contradictory elements of the Russia of the +'nineties: lack or even absence of faith interwoven with protest and +mutiny. + +Andreyev is symbolic and romantic. Her Majesty Fate and His Excellency +Accident, these are the two dark, unknown, at times brutal forces which +dwelt ever before the mind's eye. His symbols are full of horror and at +times unbending atrocity. Beginning with his short stories, In Fog, The +Life of Basil of Thebes, through his dramas, The Life of Man, and +Anathema, until his last writings, he saw human beings in the form of +ghosts and ghosts in the form of human beings dominating every step, +every breath of life. Still his gruesome symbolism, despite his genius +for rendering his images in a clear-cut, almost crystalline manner, did +not appeal to many of his contemporaries because the dark shroud in +which Andreyev enveloped life was impenetrable and at times it was +impossible to discern in that gloom the few values which Andreyev still +found in life. Leo Tolstoy said once: "Leonid Andreyev tries to frighten +me, but I am not afraid." + +Even in his splendid realistic dramas it is difficult for Andreyev to +rid himself of the habit of symbolizing and dimming the few rays of +light which try to filter through. + +There was nevertheless a little corner in Andreyev's artistic heart +where there appeared some indefinite hope which never acquired a +specific artistic form, but which was alluded to many times in his +writings. In his short story, Thought, he makes fragmentary allusions to +his half-hope, half-idea: "If the lot of the Man be to become a God, his +throne will be the Book," says the hero. + +But the red laugh of the Russo-Japanese war, the abortive revolution of +1905, the general ignorance and darkness of the masses, the strain of +the last war, the depreciation of human life as a value in itself, +brought Leonid Andreyev to the last step of the pessimistic ladder which +he was ever descending into the abyss of hopelessness. This state of +mind is best illustrated by his last dramatic work, HE, the One Who Gets +Slapped. + +Here we see a man of high education, of great intellectual achievement, +who leaves life, willingly in appearance, but forcibly in fact. The +relations of man to man, of group to group, according to Andreyev are +such that the Man is forced to efface himself. Even Thought, or the +Book, could not help the Man to become a God. He becomes a clown. He +performs stunts, he gets slaps; the public laughs, being unaware that +this laughter is a mockery at itself, at its culture, at its thought, at +its achievement. + +The characters of the play, as the reader will see, are depicted with a +bitter sarcasm and unfriendliness, for Andreyev seems to have lost his +last faith in the Man. The good, the innocent and clean heart is bound +to suffer and die. His Consuelo, Zinida, Bezano are only stray rays of +light out of place in the world and even in the world-circus which is +full of spiders, champagne, and human outcasts. Andreyev does not blame +these outcasts. On the contrary, he feels sympathy, if for anybody, for +just these clowns, jugglers, and bareback-riders; but life, this +strange combination of fate, accident, and cowardly slander, is +stronger, and they collapse under the burden of this combination. + +HE is perhaps the best work of Andreyev, at any rate his best dramatic +work. It is more adapted to stage conditions than his previous plays and +is not overcrowded with symbolic ghosts. Furthermore, HE is a remarkable +summary of Andreyev's philosophy. + +GREGORY ZILBOORG + + + + +HE WHO GETS SLAPPED + +CAST OF CHARACTERS + + + CONSUELO--_a bareback rider in a circus_. + _Billed as "The Bareback Tango Queen."_ + MANCINI--_Consuelo's father_. + HE--_a clown in Briquet's circus_. _Billed as "HE Who Gets Slapped."_ + BRIQUET--_Manager of the circus_. + ZINIDA--_a lion tamer, Briquet's wife_. + ALFRED BEZANO--_a bareback rider_. + A GENTLEMAN. + BARON REGNARD. + JACKSON--_a clown_. + TILLY } + POLLY }--_musical clowns_. + THOMAS, ANGELICA, _and other actors and actresses + of Briquet's circus_. + +_The action takes place in one of the large cities of France._ + + + + +HE WHO GETS SLAPPED + + + + +ACT I + + +_A very large, rather dirty room, with whitewashed walls. To the left, +in a niche, is a window, the only outside window in the room, opening on +a court-yard. The light from it is so dim that even by day the +electricity has to be turned on._ + +_At the very top of the centre-back wall is a row of small dusty +windows. They open on the circus hall. At night, when the performance is +going on, a bright light shines through. By day they are dark. In the +same wall is a large white door, reached by two stone steps, and nailed +fast._ + +_On the right, almost in the corner, is a high, wide, arched doorway +which leads to the stables and the ring. By day it opens into pale +darkness, at night into pale light._ + +_The room is used for many purposes. It is the office of Papa Briquet, +manager of the circus; here he keeps his little desk. It is the +cloak-room of some of the actors. It is also the room where the cast +gathers between calls, during rehearsals or performances. Again, it is a +check-room for used circus property, such as gilt armchairs, scenery +for pantomimes, and other wares of the circus household. The walls are +covered with circus announcements and glaring posters._ + +_The time is morning. In the circus hall a rehearsal is going on, and +preparations are being made for the evening performance. As the curtain +goes up, the cracking whip and the shouts of the riding-master are heard +from the ring. The stage is empty for a few seconds, then enter Tilly +and Polly, the musical clowns, practising a new march. Playing on tiny +pipes, they step from the dark doorway to the window. Their music is +agreeable to the ear, but small, mincing, artificially clown-like, like +their mincing steps; they wear jackets and resemble each other; same +smooth-shaven face, same height; Tilly, the younger, has a scarf around +his neck; both have their derbies on the backs of their heads. Tilly +glances through the window, then they turn about, still marching._ + +POLLY + +[_Interrupting the march_]: Stop, you're out again! Now, listen--[_He +stands close to Tilly and plays into his face. Tilly absent-mindedly +listens, scratching his nose._] There! Come on now! [_They resume their +music and marching. As they reach the door they meet the manager and_ +MANCINI; _the latter walks behind the manager, and is gnawing at the +knob of his goldmounted cane_. COUNT MANCINI _is tall and slight. The +seams of his clothes are worn and he keeps his coat buttoned tight. He +assumes extremely graceful manners, takes affected poses, and has a +special fondness for toying with his cane, with aristocratic +stylishness. When he laughs, which happens often, his thin sharp face +takes on a marked resemblance to a satyr. The manager_, "PAPA" BRIQUET, +_is a stout quiet man of average height_. _His bearing is hesitant. The +clowns make room for the gentlemen. The manager looks questioningly at +the older man._] + +POLLY + +[_With an affected accent_]: Our moosic for the pantomime! The March of +the Ants! + +BRIQUET + +Ha! Yes! + + [_The gentlemen walk in. The clowns resume their music_, POLLY + _marching on, then turning, the younger following._] + +POLLY + +Papa Briquet, Jack is working very badly to-day. + +BRIQUET + +What's the matter with him? + +POLLY + +He has a sore throat. You'd better take a look at him. + +BRIQUET + +All right. Come on, Jack. Open your mouth! Wider--wider. [_Turns clown's +face to the light near the window and examines him closely and +seriously._] Just smear it with iodine. + +POLLY + +I told him so. I said it was nothing! Oh! Come on. [_They go away +playing, marching, practising their funny mincing steps. The manager +sits down._ MANCINI _strikes a pose by the wall, smiling ironically._] + +MANCINI + +So. You give them medical treatment, too! Look out, Papa Briquet, you +have no licence. + +BRIQUET + +Just a little advice. They're all so afraid for their lives. + +MANCINI + +His throat is simply burnt with whiskey. These two fellows get drunk +every night. I am amazed, Papa Briquet, to see you pay so little +attention to their morals. [_He laughs._] + +BRIQUET + +You make me sick, Mancini. + +MANCINI + +Count Mancini is at your service! + +BRIQUET + +You make me sick, Count Mancini. You poke your nose into everything, you +disturb the artists in their work. Some day you'll get a thrashing, and +I warn you that I shan't interfere. + +MANCINI + +As a man of superior associations and education I cannot be expected to +treat your actors as my equals! What more can you ask, Briquet? You see +that I do you the honour of speaking with you quite familiarly, quite +simply. + +BRIQUET + +Ha! ha! ha! [_Slightly threatening_] Really!-- + +MANCINI + +Never mind my joke. What if they did dare attack me--ever seen this, +Briquet? [_He draws a stiletto out of his cane and advances it +silently._] Useful little thing. By the way, you have no idea of the +discovery I made yesterday in a suburb. Such a girl! [_Laughs._] Oh, +well! all right, all right--I know you don't like that sort of sport. +But look here, you must give me a hundred francs! + +BRIQUET + +Not a sou. + +MANCINI + +Then I'll take away Consuelo--that's all---- + +BRIQUET + +Your daily threat! + +MANCINI + +Yes, my threat! And you would do the same, if you were as shamefully +hard up as I am. Now look here, you know as well as I do that I have to +live up to my name somehow, keep up the family reputation. Just because +the tide of ill-fortune which struck my ancestors compelled me to make +my daughter, the Countess Veronica, a bareback rider--to keep us from +starving--do you understand--you heartless idiot! + +BRIQUET + +You chase the girls too much! Some day you'll land in jail, Mancini! + +MANCINI + +In jail? Oh, no! Why, I have to uphold our _name_, the splendour of my +family, [_laughs_] haven't I? The Mancinis are known all over Italy for +their love of girls--just girls! Is it my fault if I must pay such crazy +prices for what my ancestors got free of charge? You're nothing but an +ass, a _parvenu_ ass. How can you understand Family Traditions? I don't +drink--I stopped playing cards after that accident--no, you need not +smile. Now if I give up the girls, what will be left of Mancini? Only a +coat of arms, that's all---- In the name of family traditions, +give me a hundred francs! + +BRIQUET + +I told you no, I won't. + +MANCINI + +You know that I leave half of the salary for Consuelo--but--perhaps you +think I do not love my child--my only daughter, all that remains to me +as a memory of her sainted mother--what cruelty! [_Pretends to cry, +wipes his eyes with a small and dirty lace handkerchief, embroidered +with a coronet._] + +BRIQUET + +Why don't you say, rather, that she is foolish enough to give you half +her salary. You make me sick---- + +[_Enter Zinida, the lion tamer; burningly beautiful, her self-confident, +commanding gestures at first glance give an impression of languor. She +is_ BRIQUET'S _unmarried wife._] + +ZINIDA + +[_To_ MANCINI]: Good morning. + +MANCINI + +Madame Zinida! This barbarian, this brute may pierce me with his dagger, +but I cannot control the expression of my love! [_Kneels facetiously +before her_] Madame! Count Mancini has the honour of asking you to be +his wife.... + +ZINIDA + +[_To_ BRIQUET]: Money? + +BRIQUET + +Yes. + +ZINIDA + +Don't give him any. [_Sits down wearily on a torn sofa, shuts her eyes. +MANCINI gets up and wipes his knees._] + +MANCINI + +Duchess! Don't be cruel. I am no lion, no tiger, no savage beast which +you are accustomed to tame. I am merely a poor domestic animal, who +wants, miaow, miaow, a little green grass. + +ZINIDA + +[_Without opening her eyes_]: Jim tells me you have a teacher for +Consuelo. What for? + +MANCINI + +The solicitude of a father, duchess, the solicitude and the tireless +anxiety of a loving heart. The extreme misfortunes of our family, when I +was a child, have left some flaws in her education. Friends, the +daughter of Count Mancini, Countess Veronica, can barely read! Is that +admissible? And you, Briquet, heartless brute, you still ask why I need +money! + +ZINIDA + +Artful! + +BRIQUET + +What are you teaching her? + +MANCINI + +Everything. A student had been giving her lessons, but I threw him out +yesterday. He had the nerve to fall in love with Consuelo and stood +there miaowing at the door like a cat. Everything, Briquet, that you +don't know--literature, mythology, orthography---- + +[_Two young actresses appear, with small fur coats thrown over their +light dresses. They are tired and sit down in the corner._] + +MANCINI + +I do not wish my daughter---- + +ZINIDA + +Artful! + +BRIQUET + +You are stupid, Mancini. What do you do it for? [_In a didactic tone_] +You are fearfully stupid, Mancini. Why does she need to learn? Since she +is here she need never know anything about that life. Don't you +understand? What is geography? If I were the government I would forbid +artists to read books. Let them read the posters, that's enough. + + [_During_ BRIQUET'S _speech, the two clowns and another actor + enter. They sit down wearily._] + +BRIQUET + +Right now, your Consuelo is an excellent artist, but just as soon as you +teach her mythology, and she begins to read, she'll become a nuisance, +she'll be corrupted, and then she'll go and poison herself. I know those +books, I've read 'em myself. All they teach is corruption, and how to +kill oneself. + +FIRST ACTRESS + +I love the novels that come out in the newspaper. + +BRIQUET + +That shows what a foolish girl you are. You'll be done for in no time. +Believe me, my friends, we must forget entirely what is happening out +there. How can we understand all that goes on there? + +MANCINI + +You are an enemy of enlightenment, you are an obscurantist, Briquet. + +BRIQUET + +And you are stupid. You are from out there. What has it taught you? +[_The actors laugh._] If you'd been born in a circus as I was, you'd +know something. Enlightenment is plain nonsense--nothing else. Ask +Zinida. She knows everything they teach out there--geography, +mythology---- Does it make her any happier? You tell them, dear. + +ZINIDA + +Leave me alone, Louis. + +MANCINI + +[_Angrily_]: Oh! Go to the devil! When I listen to your asinine +philosophy, I'd like to skin you for more than a paltry hundred +francs--for two hundred--for a thousand. Great God! What an ass of a +manager! Yes, right before every one of them I want to say that you are +a stingy old skinflint--that you pay starvation wages. I'll make you +give Consuelo a raise of a hundred francs. Listen, all you honest +vagabonds, tell me--who is it draws the crowd that fills the circus +every night? You? a couple of musical donkeys? Tigers, lions? Nobody +cares for those hungry cats! + +ZINIDA + +Leave the tigers alone. + +MANCINI + +Beg your pardon, Zinida. I did not mean to hurt your feelings--honestly. +I really marvel at your furious audacity--at your grace--you are a +heroine--I kiss your tiny hands. But what do they understand about +heroism? [_An orchestra softly plays the Tango in the circus. He +continues with enthusiasm._] Hear! hear! Now tell me, honest vagabonds, +who but Consuelo and Bezano draws the crowds! That Tango on +horseback--it is--it is---- Oh, the devil! Even his fatuousness +the Pope could not withstand its lure. + +POLLY + +True! It's a great trick--wasn't the idea Bezano's? + +MANCINI + +Idea! Idea! The lad's in love, like a cat--that's the idea. What's the +good of an idea without a woman! You wouldn't dance very far with your +idea alone, eh, Papa Briquet? + +BRIQUET + +We have a contract. + +MANCINI + +Such base formalities. + +ZINIDA + +Give him ten francs and let him go. + +MANCINI + +Ten! Never! _Fifteen!_ Don't be stubborn, Papa. For the traditions of my +house--twenty. I swear--on my honour--I can't do with less. [BRIQUET +_hands him twenty francs. Nonchalantly_] _Merci._ Thanks. + +ZINIDA + +Why don't you take it from your baron? + +MANCINI + +[_Raising his eyebrows haughtily, quite indignant_]: From the Baron? +Woman! who do you think I am that I should be beholden to a stranger? + +ZINIDA + +You're plotting something artful. I know you very little, but I guess +you're an awful scoundrel. + +MANCINI + +[_Laughs_]: Such an insult from such beautiful lips. + +[_Enter an "artist," apparently an athlete._] + +ATHLETE + +Papa Briquet, there's a gentleman from beyond the grave asking for you. + +ACTRESS + +A ghost? + +ATHLETE + +No. He seems alive. Did you ever see a drunken ghost? + +BRIQUET + +If he's drunk, tell him I'm out, Thomas. Does he want to see me or the +Count? + +ATHLETE + +No, you. Maybe he's not drunk, but just a ghost. + +MANCINI + +[_Draws himself together, puffs up_]: A society man? + +ATHLETE + +Yes. I'll tell him to come in. + + [_One hears the whip cracking in the ring. The Tango sounds very + low and distant--then comes nearer--louder. Silence._] + +BRIQUET + +[_Touching_ ZINIDA'S _arm_]: Tired? + +ZINIDA + +[_Drawing back a little_]: No. + +POLLY + +Your red lion is nervous to-day, Zinida! + +ZINIDA + +You shouldn't tease him. + +POLLY + +I played a melody from Traviata for him. And he sang with me. Wouldn't +that be a good trick to stage, Papa Briquet? + + [THOMAS _brings in the gentleman, points out the manager, and goes + heavily away. The gentleman is not young, and he is ugly, but his + rather strange face is bold and lively. He wears an expensive + overcoat, with a fur collar, and holds his hat and gloves in his + hand._] + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Bowing and smiling_]: Have I the pleasure of addressing the manager? + +BRIQUET + +Yes. Won't you sit down, please? Tilly, bring a chair. + +GENTLEMAN + +Oh! Don't trouble. [_Looks around._] These are your artists? Very +glad---- + +MANCINI + +[_Straightening and bowing slightly_]: Count Mancini. + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Surprised_]: Count? + +BRIQUET + +[_Indignantly_]: Yes, Count. And whom have I the honour of---- + +GENTLEMAN + +I don't quite know myself--yet. As a rule you choose your own names, +don't you? I have not chosen yet. Later you might advise me about it. I +have an idea already, but I am afraid it sounds too much like +literature--you know. + +BRIQUET + +Literature? + +GENTLEMAN + +Yes! Too sophisticated. [_They all look surprised._] I presume these two +gentlemen are clowns? I am so glad. May I shake hands with them? +[_Stands up and shakes hands with clowns, who make silly faces._] + +BRIQUET + +Excuse me--but what can I do for you? + +GENTLEMAN + +[_With the same pleasant, confident smile_]: Oh. You do something for +me? No. I want to do something for you, Papa Briquet. + +BRIQUET + +_Papa_ Briquet? But you don't look like---- + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Reassuringly_]: It's all right. I shall become "like." These two +gentlemen just made remarkable faces. Would you like to see me imitate +them? Look! [_He makes the same silly faces as the clowns._] + +BRIQUET + +Yes! [_Involuntarily_] You are not drunk, sir? + +GENTLEMAN + +No. I don't drink as a rule. Do I look drunk? + +POLLY + +A little. + +GENTLEMAN + +No--I don't drink. It is a peculiarity of my talent. + +BRIQUET + +[_Familiarly_]: Where did you work before? Juggler? + +GENTLEMAN + +No. But I am glad you feel in me a comrade, Papa Briquet. Unfortunately +I am not a juggler, and have worked nowhere--I am--just so. + +MANCINI + +But you look like a society man. + +GENTLEMAN + +Oh, you flatter me, Count. I am just so. + +BRIQUET + +Well, what do you want? You see I am obliged to tell you that everything +is taken. + +GENTLEMAN + +That's immaterial. I want to be a clown, if you will allow me. [_Some of +the actors smile_, BRIQUET _begins to grow angry_.] + +BRIQUET + +But what can you do? You're asking too much. What can you do? + +GENTLEMAN + +Why! Nothing! Isn't that funny! I can't do a thing. + +BRIQUET + +No, it's not funny. Any scoundrel knows that much. + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Rather helpless, but still smiling and looking around_]: We can invent +something---- + +BRIQUET + +[_Ironically_]: From literature? + +[_The clown Jackson enters slowly without being noticed by the others. +He stands behind the gentlemen._] + +GENTLEMAN + +Yes, one can find something literary, too. A nice little speech for +instance on, let's say, a religious topic. Something like a debate among +the clowns. + +BRIQUET + +A debate! The devil! This is no academy. + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Sadly_]: I am very sorry. Something else then. Perhaps a joke about +the creation of the world and its rulers? + +BRIQUET + +What about the police? No, no--nothing like that! + +JACKSON + +[_Coming forward_]: The rulers of the world? You don't like them? I +don't either. Shake. + +BRIQUET + +[_Introducing_]: Our chief clown, the famous Jackson. + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Enthusiastically_]: Great heavens--you! Allow me to shake hands with +you heartily! You, with your genius, you have given me so much joy! + +JACKSON + +I'm glad indeed! + +BRIQUET + +[_Shrugs his shoulders; to Jackson_]: He wants to be a clown! Look him +over, Jim. + + [_Jackson makes a motion at which the gentleman hurriedly removes + his coat and throws it on a chair. He is ready for the examination. + Jackson turns him round, looking him over critically._] + +JACKSON + +Clown? Hm! Turn round then. Clown? Yes? Now smile. Wider--broader--do +you call that a smile? So--that's better. There is something, yes--but +for full developments---- [_Sadly_]: Probably you can't even turn a +somersault? + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Sighs_]: No. + +JACKSON + +How old are you? + +GENTLEMAN + +Thirty-nine. Too late? [_Jackson moves away with a whistle. There is a +silence._] + +ZINIDA + +[_Softly_]: Take him. + +BRIQUET + +[_Indignant_]: What the hell shall I do with him if he doesn't know a +thing? He's drunk! + +GENTLEMAN + +Honestly I am not. Thank you for your support, Madame. Are you not the +famous Zinida, the lion tamer, whose regal beauty and audacity---- + +ZINIDA + +Yes. But I do not like flattery. + +GENTLEMAN + +It is not flattery. + +MANCINI + +You are evidently not accustomed to good society, my dear. Flattery? +This gentleman expresses his admiration in sincere and beautiful +words--and you--you are not educated, Zinida. As for myself---- + +[_Enter CONSUELO and BEZANO in circus costume._] + +CONSUELO + +You here, Daddy? + +MANCINI + +Yes, my child, you are not tired? [_Kisses her on the forehead._] My +daughter, sir, Countess Veronica. Known on the stage as Consuelo, The +Bareback Tango Queen. Did you ever see her? + +GENTLEMAN + +I have enjoyed her work. It is marvellous! + +MANCINI + +Yes! Of course. Everyone admits it. And how do you like the name, +Consuelo? I took it from the novel of George Sand. It means +"Consolation." + +GENTLEMAN + +What a wonderful knowledge of books! + +MANCINI + +A small thing. Despite your strange intention, I can see, sir, that you +are a gentleman. My peer! Let me explain to you, that only the strange +and fatal misfortunes of our ancient family--"_sic transit gloria +mundi_," sir. + +CONSUELO + +It's a bore, Daddy---- Where's my handkerchief, Alfred? + +BEZANO + +Here it is. + +CONSUELO + +[_Showing the handkerchief to the gentleman_]: Genuine Venetian. Do you +like it? + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Again bowing_]: My eyes are dazzled, how beautiful! Papa Briquet, the +more I look around me the more I want to stay with you. [_Makes the face +of a simpleton._] On the one hand a count, on the other---- + +JACKSON + +[_Nods approval_]: That's not bad. Look here, think a bit--find +something. Everyone here thinks for himself. + + [_Silence. The gentleman stands with a finger on his forehead, + thinking._] + +GENTLEMAN + +Find something--find something ... Eureka! + +POLLY + +That means _found_. Come! + +GENTLEMAN + +Eureka---- I shall be among you, he who gets slapped. [_General +laughter. Even_ BRIQUET _smiles_.] + +GENTLEMAN + +[Looks at them smiling]: You see I made even you laugh--is that easy? +[_All grow serious. Polly sighs._] + +TILLY + +No, it's not easy. Did you laugh, Polly? + +POLLY + +Sure, a lot. Did you? + +TILLY + +I did. [_Imitating an instrument, he plays with his lips a melody at +once sad and gay._] + +JACKSON + +"He Who Gets Slapped," that's not bad. + +GENTLEMAN + +It's not, is it? I rather like it myself. It suits my talent. And +comrades, I have even found a name--you'll call me "HE." Is that all +right? + +JACKSON + +[_Thinking_]: "HE"--Not bad. + +CONSUELO + +[_In a singing, melodic voice_]: "HE" is so funny--"HE"--like a dog. +Daddy, are there such dogs? + + [_Jackson suddenly gives a circus slap to the gentleman. HE steps + back and grows pale._] + +GENTLEMAN + +What!--[_General laughter covers his exclamation._] + +JACKSON + +HE Who Gets Slapped. Or didn't you get it? + +POLLY + +[_Comically_]: He says he wants more---- [_The gentleman smiles, rubbing +his cheek._] + +GENTLEMAN + +So sudden.--Without waiting.--How funny--you didn't hurt me, and yet my +cheek burns. + + [_Again there is loud laughter. The clowns cackle like ducks, hens, + cocks; they bark._ ZINIDA _says something to_ BRIQUET, _casts a + glance toward_ BEZANO, _and goes out_. MANCINI _assumes a bored air + and looks at his watch_. _The two actresses go out._] + +JACKSON + +Take him, Papa Briquet--he will push us. + +MANCINI + +[_Again looking at his watch_]: But bear in mind, that Papa Briquet is +as close as Harpagon. If you expect to get good money here you are +mistaken. [_HE laughs._] A slap? What's a slap? Worth only small change, +a franc and a half a dozen. Better go back to society; you will make +more money there. Why for one slap, just a light tap, you might say, my +friend, Marquis Justi, was paid fifty thousand lire! + +BRIQUET + +Shut up, Mancini. Will you take care of him, Jackson. + +JACKSON + +I can. + +POLLY + +Do you like music? A Beethoven sonata played on a broom, for instance, +or Mozart on a bottle? + +HE + +Alas! No. But I will be exceedingly grateful if you will teach me. A +clown! My childhood's dream. When all my school friends were thrilled by +Plutarch's heroes, or the light of science--I dreamed of clowns. +Beethoven on a broom, Mozart on bottles! Just what I have sought all my +life! Friends, I must have a costume! + +JACKSON + +I see you don't know much! A costume [_putting his finger on his +forehead_] is a thing which calls for deep thought. Have you seen my Sun +here? [_Strikes his posterior._] I looked for it two years. + +HE + +[_Enthusiastically_]: I shall think! + +MANCINI + +It is time for me to go. Consuelo, my child, you must get dressed. [_To +HE._] We are lunching with Baron Regnard, a friend of mine, a banker. + +CONSUELO + +But I don't want to go, Daddy. Alfred says I must rehearse to-day. + +MANCINI + +[_Horrified, holding up his hands_]: Child, think of me, and what a +situation you put me in! I promised the Baron, the Baron expects us. +Why, it is impossible! Oh, I am in a cold sweat. + +CONSUELO + +Alfred says---- + +BEZANO + +[_Drily_]: She has to work. Are you rested? Then come on. + +MANCINI + +But--the devil take me if I know what to make of it. Hey, Bezano, +bareback rider! Are you crazy? I gave you permission for Art's sake, to +exercise my daughter's talent--and you---- + +CONSUELO + +Go along, Papa, and don't be so silly. We've got to work, haven't we? +Have lunch along with your Baron. And Daddy, you forgot to take a clean +handkerchief again, and I washed two for you yesterday. Where did you +put them? + +MANCINI + +[_Ashamed, blushing_]: Why, my linen is washed by the laundress, and +you, Consuelo, are still playing with toys. It is stupid! You're a +chatter-box. You don't think. These gentlemen might imagine Heaven knows +what. How stupid. I'm off. + +CONSUELO + +Do you want me to write him a little note? + +MANCINI + +[_Angrily_]: A little note? Your little notes would make a horse laugh! +Good-bye. + + [_He goes out toying angrily with his cane. The clowns follow him + respectfully, playing a funeral march. HE and_ JACKSON _laugh. The + actors disappear one by one._] + +CONSUELO + +[_Laughing_]: Do I really write so badly? And I love so to write. Did +you like my note, Alfred--or did you laugh, too? + +BEZANO + +[_Blushing_]: No, I did not. Come on, Consuelo. + + [_They go, and meet_ ZINIDA, _entering. Consuelo passes on._] + +ZINIDA + +Are you going back to work, BEZANO? + +BEZANO + +[_Politely_]: Yes. To-day is a very bad day. How are your lions, Zinida? +I think the weather affects them. + +CONSUELO + +[_From the ring_]: Alfred! + +ZINIDA + +Yes. Some one is calling you. You'd better go. [_Alfred goes out. To_ +BRIQUET] Are you finished? + +BRIQUET + +Right away. + +JACKSON + +Then good-bye till evening. Think about your costume, HE, and I shall +look for some idea, too. Be here at ten to-morrow. Don't be late, or +you'll get another slap. And I'll work with you. + +HE + +I shall not be late. [_He looks after_ JACKSON _who goes out._] Must be +a nice man. All the people about you are so nice, Papa Briquet. I +suppose that good-looking bareback rider is in love with Consuelo, isn't +he? [_Laughs._] + +ZINIDA + +It's none of your business. For a newcomer you go poking your nose too +far. How much does he want, Papa? + +BRIQUET + +Just a minute. See here HE. I don't want to make a contract with you. + +HE + +Just as you please. Do you know what? Don't let us talk about money. You +are an honest fellow, Briquet; you will see what my work is worth to +you, and then---- + +BRIQUET + +[_Pleased_]: Now that's very nice of you. Zinida, the man really doesn't +know anything. + +ZINIDA + +Well, do as he suggests. Now we must write it down. Where's the book? + +BRIQUET + +Here. [_To HE_.] I don't like to write [_gives book to_ ZINIDA], but we +have to put down the names of the actors, you know--it's police +regulations. Then if anyone kills himself, or---- + + [_Again comes the sound of the Tango, and calls from the ring._] + +ZINIDA + +What is your name? + +HE + +[_Smiling_]: HE. I chose it, you know. Or don't you like it? + +BRIQUET + +We like it all right--but we have to have your real name. Have you a +passport? + +HE + +[_Confused_]: A passport? No, I have none. Or, rather, yes. I have +something of the kind, but I had no idea the rules were strictly +enforced here. What do you need papers for? + + [ZINIDA _and_ BRIQUET _look at each other_. ZINIDA _pushes the book + aside_.] + +ZINIDA + +Then we can't take you. We cannot quarrel with the police, just on your +account. + +BRIQUET + +She is my wife. I hadn't told you. She's right. You might get hurt by a +horse, or hurt yourself--or do something. We don't know you, you see. I +personally don't care, but out there, it's different, you see. For me a +corpse is just a corpse--and I don't ask anything about him. It's up to +God or the Devil. But they--they're too curious. Well, I suppose it's +necessary for order. I don't know---- Got a card? + +HE + +[_Rubs his head, thinking_]: What shall I do? I have my card, but +[_smiles_] you understand that I don't want my name to be known. + +BRIQUET + +Some story, hey? + +HE + +Yes, something like that. Why can't you imagine that I have no name? +Can't I lose it as I might lose my hat? Or let someone else take it by +mistake? When a stray dog comes to you, you don't ask his name--you +simply give him another. Let me be that dog. [_Laughing_] HE--the Dog! + +ZINIDA + +Why don't you tell us your name, just the two of us. Nobody else need +know it. Unless you should break your neck---- + +HE + +[_Hesitates_]: Honestly? [ZINIDA _shrugs her shoulders_.] + +BRIQUET + +Where people are honest, their word is good. One sees you come from _out +there_. + +HE + +All right. But please, don't be surprised. [_Gives_ ZINIDA _his card. +She looks at it, then hands it to_ BRIQUET, _then both look at HE_.] + +BRIQUET + +If it is true, sir, that you are really what is written here---- + +HE + +For heaven's sake--for heaven's sake--this does not exist, but was lost +long ago; it is just a check for an old hat. I pray you to forget it, as +I have. I am HE Who Gets Slapped--nothing else. [_Silence._] + +BRIQUET + +I beg your pardon, sir, but I must ask you again, I must humbly ask +you--are you not drunk, sir? There is something in your +eye--something---- + +HE + +No, no. I am He, Who Gets Slapped. Since when do you speak to me like +this, Papa Briquet? You offend me. + +ZINIDA + +After all, it's his business, Briquet. [_She hides the card._] Truly you +are a strange man. [_Smiles._] And you have already noticed that Bezano +is in love with the horse-girl? And that I love my Briquet, did you +notice that, too? + +HE + +[_Also smiling_]: Oh, yes. You adore him. + +ZINIDA + +I adore him. Now go with him, Briquet, show him the ring and the +stables--I have something to write. + +HE + +Yes, yes, please. I am so happy. At last you have taken me, haven't you? +It is true--you're not joking. The circus, the tan-bark, the ring in +which I shall run getting my slaps. Yes, yes, Briquet, let's go. Until I +feel the sawdust under my feet, I shall not believe it. + +BRIQUET + +All right then. [_Kisses_ ZINIDA.] Come on. + +ZINIDA + +Just a minute--HE! Answer me a question. I have a man who takes care of +the cages, a plain fellow whom nobody knows. He just cleans the cages +you know; he walks in and out whenever he wants to, without even looking +at the lions, as if he were perfectly at home. Why is that so? Nobody +knows him, everybody knows me, everyone is afraid for me, while---- And +he is such a silly man--you will see him. [_Laughs._] But don't you +think of entering the cage yourself! My red one would give you such a +slap! + +BRIQUET + +[_Displeased_]: There you are again, Zinida--stop it. + +ZINIDA + +[_Laughs_]: All right--go. Oh yes, Louis, send me Bezano. I have to +settle an account with him. + + [HE _and the director go out_. ZINIDA _looks at the card once more, + then hides it. She gets up and walks quickly up and down the room. + She stops to listen to the Tango, which ends abruptly. Then she + stands motionless, looking straight at the dark opening of the door + through which_ BEZANO _comes_.] + +BEZANO + +[_Entering_]: You called me, Zinida? What do you want? Tell me quickly, +I have no time---- + + [ZINIDA _looks at him silently_. BEZANO _flushes with anger, and + knits his eyebrows. He turns to the door to go._] + +ZINIDA + +Bezano! + +BEZANO + +[_Stops, without looking up_]: What do you want? I have no time. + +ZINIDA + +Bezano! I keep hearing people say that you are in love with Consuelo. Is +it true? + +BEZANO + +[_Shrugging his shoulders_]: We work well together. + +ZINIDA + +[_Takes a step forward_]: No---- Tell me, Alfred, do you love her? + +BEZANO + +[_Flushes like a boy, but looks straight into_ ZINIDA'S _eyes. +Proudly_]: I do not love anybody. No, I love nobody. How can I? +Consuelo? She is here to-day, gone to-morrow, if her father should take +her away. And I? Who am I? An acrobat, the son of a Milanese +shoemaker---- She! I cannot even talk about it. Like my horses I have no +words. Who am I to love? + +ZINIDA + +Do you love me? A little? + +BEZANO + +No. I told you before. + +ZINIDA + +Still no? Not even a little? + +BEZANO + +[_After a silence_]: I am afraid of you. + +ZINIDA + +[_Wants to cry out, indignantly, but masters herself and lowers her +eyes, as if in an effort to shut out their light; turns pale_]: Am I ... +so terrifying a woman---- + +BEZANO + +You are beautiful, like a queen. You are almost as beautiful as +Consuelo. But I don't like your eyes. Your eyes command me to love +you--and I don't like to be commanded. I am afraid of you. + +ZINIDA + +Do I command, Bezano? No--only implore. + +BEZANO + +Then why not look at me straight? Now I have it. You know yourself that +your eyes cannot implore. [_Laughs._] Your lions have spoiled you. + +ZINIDA + +My red lion loves me---- + +BEZANO + +Never! If he loves you, why is he so sad? + +ZINIDA + +Yesterday he was licking my hands like a dog. + +BEZANO + +And this morning he was looking for you to devour you. He thrusts out +his muzzle and looks out, as if he sees only you. He is afraid of you, +and he hates you. Or do you want me to lick your hands too, like a dog? + +ZINIDA + +No, Alfred, but I--I want to kiss _your_ hand. [_With passion_]: Give it +to me! + +BEZANO + +[_Severely_]: I am ashamed to listen to you when you speak like that. + +ZINIDA + +[_Controlling herself_]: One should not torture another as you torture +me. Alfred, I love you. No, I do not command. Look into my eyes---- _I +love you._ [_Silence._] + +BEZANO + +[_Turns to go_]: Good-bye. + +ZINIDA + +Alfred---- + +[HE _appears in the doorway, and stops_.] + +BEZANO + +Please never tell me any more that you love me. I don't want it. +Otherwise I will quit. You pronounce the word love as if you were +cracking me with your whip. You know it is disgusting---- + + [_He turns brusquely and goes. Both notice HE_; BEZANO, _frowning, + passes out quickly_. ZINIDA _returns to her place at the desk, with + a proudly indifferent expression_.] + +HE + +[_Coming in_]: I beg your pardon, but I---- + +ZINIDA + +There you are again, poking your nose into everything, HE. Do you really +want a slap? + +HE + +[_Laughing_]: No. I simply forgot my overcoat. I didn't hear anything. + +ZINIDA + +I don't care whether you did or not. + +HE + +May I take my coat? + +ZINIDA + +Take it if it's yours. Sit down, HE. + +HE + +I am sitting down. + +ZINIDA + +Now tell me HE, could you love me? + +HE + +[_Laughing_]: I? I and Love! Look at me, Zinida. Did you ever see a +lover with such a face? + +ZINIDA + +One can succeed with such a face---- + +HE + +That's because I am happy--because I lost my hat--because I am drunk--or +perhaps I am not drunk. But I feel as dizzy as a young girl at her +first ball. It is so nice here--slap me, I want to play my part. Perhaps +it will awaken love in my heart, too. Love--[_as if listening to his own +heart with pretended terror_] do you know--I feel it! + +[_In the circus the Tango is played again_.] + +ZINIDA + +[_Listening too_]: For me? + +HE + +No. I don't know. For everyone. [_Listens to the music._] Yes, they are +dancing--how beautiful Consuelo is--and how beautiful is the youth. He +has the body of a Greek God; he looks as if he had been modeled by +Praxiteles. Love! Love! [_Silence, music._.] + +ZINIDA + +Tell me, HE---- + +HE + +At your service, Queen! + +ZINIDA + +HE, what shall I do, to make my lions love me? + +CURTAIN + + + + +ACT II + + +_The same room, during the evening performance. Occasional music, +laughter, shrieks, and applause are audible. Through the small windows, +back centre, the light is shining._ + +_Consuelo and Baron Regnard occupy the stage; Consuelo wears her stage +costume; she sits with her feet on the sofa, a small shawl covering her +shoulders. Before her stands the Baron, a tall stout man in evening +dress, a rose in his button-hole; grasping the ground with feet well +apart, he gazes at her with convex spider-like eyes._ + +BARON + +Is it true that your father, the Count, has introduced you to a certain +Marquis Justi, a very rich man? + +CONSUELO + +[_Surprised_]: No, he is only joking. I have often heard him speak of a +Marquis Justi but I have never seen him---- + +BARON + +And do you know that your father is just a charlatan? + +CONSUELO + +Oh! Don't say that--Father is such a dear. + +BARON + +Did you like the jewels? + +CONSUELO + +Yes, very much. I was very sorry when Father told me I must return them. +He said it would not be nice for me to keep them. I even cried a little +about it. + +BARON + +Your father is only a beggar and a charlatan. + +CONSUELO + +Oh, no, don't scold him--he loves you so much. + +BARON + +Let me kiss your hand---- + +CONSUELO + +Oh, no, it isn't proper! One may kiss the hand only when one says how do +you do or good-bye. But in the meantime you can't. + +BARON + +Everybody is in love with you, that is why you and your father make such +a fuss about yourselves. Who is that new clown they call HE? I don't +like him, he's too shrewd a beast.... Is he in love with you, too? I +noticed the way he looked at you.... + +CONSUELO + +[_Laughing_]: Nothing of the kind. He is so funny! He got fifty-two +slaps yesterday. We counted them. Think of it, fifty-two slaps! Father +said, "if they had only been gold pieces." + +BARON + +And Bezano, Consuelo.... Do you like him? + +CONSUELO + +Yes, very much. He is so good-looking. He says that Bezano and I are the +most beautiful couple in the world. HE calls him Adam, and me Eve. But +that's improper, isn't it? HE is _so_ improper. + +BARON + +And does HE speak to you very often? + +CONSUELO + +Yes, often.... But I don't understand him. It seems as if he were drunk. + +BARON + +"Consuelo"!... It means in Spanish ... Consolation. Your father is an +ass.... Consuelo, I love you. + +CONSUELO + +Talk it over with Father. + +BARON + +[_Angry_]: Your father is a swindler and a charlatan. He should be +turned over to the police. Don't you understand that I _cannot_ marry +you? + +CONSUELO + +But Father says you can.... + +BARON + +No, I cannot. And what if I shoot myself? Consuelo, silly girl, I love +you unbearably ... unbearably, do you understand? I am probably mad ... +and must be taken to a doctor, yanked about, beaten with sticks. Why do +I love you so much, Consuelo? + +CONSUELO + +Then, you'd better marry. + +BARON + +I have had a hundred women, beauties, but I didn't see them. You are the +first and I don't see any one else. Who strikes man with love, God or +the Devil? The Devil struck me. Let me kiss your hand. + +CONSUELO + +No. [_She thinks a while and sighs._] + +BARON + +Do you think sometimes? What are you thinking about now Consuelo? + +CONSUELO + +[_With another sigh_]: I don't know why, I just felt sorry for Bezano. +[_Sighs again._] He is so nice to me when he teaches me ... and he has +such a tiny little room. + +BARON + +[_Indignant_]: You were there? + +CONSUELO + +No. He told me about it. [_Smiling_] Do you hear the noise in there? +That's HE getting slapped. Poor thing ... although I know it doesn't +hurt, it's only make-believe. The intermission is coming soon. + + [_The_ BARON _throws away his cigar, takes two quick steps forward, + and falls on his knees before the girl_.] + +BARON + +Consuelo---- + +CONSUELO + +Please, don't. Get up. Please leave my hand alone. + +BARON + +Consuelo! + +CONSUELO + +[_Disgusted_]: Get up please, it's disgusting--you're so fat. + + [_The_ BARON _gets up. Voices are heard near the door and in the + ring. It is the intermission. The clowns come first, talking + cheerfully and excitedly. He leads them, in his clown's dress, + with painted eyebrows and white nose; the others are applauding + him. Voices of the actors calling: "Bravo! HE." Then come the + actors and actresses, riding-masters, and the rest, all in costume. + ZINIDA is not among them. PAPA BRIQUET comes a little later._] + +POLLY + +A hundred slaps! Bravo, HE! + +JACKSON + +Not bad, not bad at all. You'll make a career. + +TILLY + +He was the Professor to-day, and we were the students. Here goes +another! [_Gives him a clown's slap. Laughter. All bid good evening to +the BARON. He is politely rude to these vagabonds who bore him, and +remains silent. They seem quite used to it. Enter MANCINI. He is the +same, and with the same cane._] + +MANCINI + +[_Shaking hands_]: What a success, Baron--and think of it--how the crowd +does love slaps. [_Whispering_] Your knees are dusty, Baron, brush them +off. The floor is very dirty in here. [_Aloud_] Consuelo, dear child, +how do you feel? [_Goes over to his daughter. Sound of laughing, +chattering. The waiters from the buffet in the lobby bring in soda and +wine. Consuelo's voice it heard._] + +CONSUELO + +And where is Bezano? + +HE + +[_Bows before the_ BARON, _affecting intimacy_]: _You_ do not recognize +me, Baron? + +BARON + +Yes I do. You are the clown, HE. + +HE + +Yes I am HE Who Gets Slapped. May I presume to ask you, Baron, did you +get your jewels back? + +BARON + +What! + +HE + +I was asked to return some jewels to you, and I take the liberty of---- +[_The_ BARON _turns his back on him--HE laughs loudly_.] + +JACKSON + +Whiskey and soda! Believe me, ladies and gents, HE will surely make a +career. I am an old clown, and I know the crowd. Why to-day, he even +eclipsed _me_--and clouds have covered my Sun. [_Striking it._] They do +not like puzzles, they want slaps! They are longing for them and +dreaming about them in their homes. Your health, HE! Another whiskey and +soda! HE got so many slaps to-day, there would be enough to go round the +whole orchestra! + +TILLY + +I bet there wouldn't! [_To Jackson_] Shake! + +POLLY + +I bet there wouldn't--I'll go and count the old mugs. + +A VOICE + +The orchestra did not laugh---- + +JACKSON + +Because they were getting it, but the galleries did, because they were +looking at the orchestra getting slapped. Your health, HE! + +HE + +Your's Jim! Tell me, why didn't you let me finish my speech--I was just +getting a good start. + +JACKSON + +[_Seriously_]: My friend, because your speech was a sacrilege. +Politics--all right. Manners--as much as you want. But Providence--leave +it in peace. And believe me, friend, I shut your mouth in time. Didn't +I, Papa Briquet? + +BRIQUET + +[_Coming nearer_]: Yes. It was too much like literature. This is not an +academy. You forget yourself, HE. + +TILLY + +But to shut one's mouth--faugh.... + +BRIQUET + +[_In a didactic tone_]: Whenever one shuts one's mouth, it is always +high time to shut it, unless one is drinking. Hey, whiskey and soda! + +VOICES + +Whiskey and soda for the Manager! + +MANCINI + +But this is obscurantism. Philosophizing again, Briquet? + +BRIQUET + +I am not satisfied with you to-day, HE. Why do you tease them? They +don't like it. Your health! A good slap must be clean like a +crystal--fft-fft! right side, left side, and done with it. They will +like it; they will laugh, and love you. But in your slaps there is a +certain bite, you understand, a certain smell---- + +HE + +But they laughed, nevertheless! + +BRIQUET + +But without pleasure, without pleasure, HE. You pay, and immediately +draw a draft on their bank; it's not the right game--they won't like +you. + +JACKSON + +That's what _I_ tell him. He had already begun to make them angry. + +BEZANO + +[_Entering_]: Consuelo, where are you? I have been looking for you--come +on. [_Both go out. The_ BARON, _after hesitating a while, follows +them_. MANCINI _accompanies him respectfully to the door_.] + +HE + +[_Sighs_]: You don't understand, my dear friends; you are simply old, +and have forgotten the smell of the stage. + +JACKSON + +Aha! Who is old, my young man? + +HE + +Don't be angry, Jim. It's a play, don't you understand? I become happy +when I enter the ring and hear the music. I wear a mask and I feel +humorous. There is a mask on my face, and I play. I may say _anything_ +like a drunkard. Do you understand? Yesterday when I, with this stupid +face, was playing the great man, the philosopher [_he assumes a proud +monumental pose, and repeats the gesture of the play--general laughter_] +I was walking this way, and was telling how great, how wise, how +incomparable I was--how God lived in me, how high I stood above the +earth--how glory shone above my head [_his voice changes and he is +speaking faster_] then you, Jim, you hit me for the first time. And I +asked you, "What is it, they're applauding me?" Then, at the tenth +slap, I said: "It seems to me that they sent for me from the Academy?" +[_Acts, looking around him with an air of unconquerable pride and +splendour. Laughter. Jackson gives him a real slap._] + +HE + +[_Holding his face_]: Why? + +JACKSON + +Because you're a fool, and play for nothing. Waiter, the check. +(_Laughter. The bell calls them to the ring. The actors go out in haste, +some running. The waiters collect their money._) + +BRIQUET + +[_In a sing-song_]: To the ring--to the ring-- + +MANCINI + +I want to tell you something, HE. You are not going yet? + +HE + +No. I'll take a rest. + +BRIQUET + +To the ring--to the ring-- + + [_The clowns as they go sing in shrill, squeaky voices. Little by + little they all disappear, and loud music begins. HE seats himself + on the sofa with his legs crossed, and yawns._] + +MANCINI + +HE, you have something none of my ancestors ever had--money. Let's have +a nice bottle on you. Waiter, please--[_The waiter who was taking up +dishes, brings a bottle of wine and glasses and goes out._] + +HE + +You're blue, Mancini. [_Stretches._] Well, at my age, a hundred +slaps--it seems pretty hard. So you're blue. How are things getting on +with your girl? + +MANCINI + +Tss! Bad! Complications--parents--[_shudders_] Agh-- + +HE + +Prison! + +MANCINI + +[_Laughing_]: Prison! Mustn't I uphold the glory of my name now, eh? HE, +I'm joking--but there is Hell in my heart. You're the only one who +understands me. But tell me how to explain this passion? It will turn +my hair grey, it'll bring me to prison, to the grave. I am a tragic man. +HE--[_Wipes his eyes with a dirty handkerchief._] Why don't I like +things which are not forbidden? Why, at all moments, even at the very +moment of ecstasy, must I be reminded of some law--it is stupid. HE, I +am becoming an anarchist. Good God!--Count Mancini, an anarchist. That's +the only thing I've missed. + +HE + +Isn't there a way of settling it somehow? + +MANCINI + +Is there a way of getting money, somehow? + +HE + +And the Baron? + +MANCINI + +Oh, yes! He's just waiting for it, the bloodsucker! He'll get what he's +after. Some day, you'll see me give him Consuelo for ten thousand +francs, perhaps for five! + +HE + +Cheap. + +MANCINI + +Did I say it was anything else? Do I want to do it? But these bourgeois +are strangling me, they've got me by the throat. HE, one can easily see +that you're a gentleman, and of good society, you understand me--I +showed you the jewels which I sent back to him--damn honesty--I didn't +even dare change the stones, put false ones-- + +HE + +Why? + +MANCINI + +It would have queered the game. Do you think he didn't weigh the +diamonds when he got them back? + +HE + +He will not marry her. + +MANCINI + +Yes he will. You don't understand. [_Laughs._] The first half of his +life, this man had only appetites--now love's got him. If he does not +get Consuelo, he is lost, he is--like a withered narcissus. Plague take +him with his automobiles. Did you see his car? + +HE + +I did.... Give Consuelo to the Jockey-- + +MANCINI + +To Bezano? [_Laughs._] What nonsense you do talk! Oh, I know. It's your +joke about Adam and Eve. But please stop it. It's clever, but it +compromises the child. She told me about it. + +HE + +Or give her to me. + +MANCINI + +Have you a billion? [_Laughs._] Ah, HE, I'm not in the proper mood to +listen to your clownish jokes--They say there are terrible jails in this +country, and no discriminations are being made between people of my +kind, and plain scoundrels. Why do you look at me like that? You're +making fun of me? + +HE + +No. + +MANCINI + +I'll never get accustomed to those faces. You're so disgustingly made +up. + +HE + +He will not marry her. You can be as proud as you please, Mancini, but +he'll not marry her. What _is_ Consuelo? She is not educated. When she +is off her horse, any good housemaid from a decent house has nicer +manners, and speaks better. [_Nonchalantly_] Don't _you_ think she's +stupid? + +MANCINI + +No, she's not stupid. And you, HE, are a fool. What need has a woman of +intelligence? Why, HE, you astonish me. Consuelo is an unpolished jewel, +and only a real donkey does not notice her sparkle. Do you know what +happened? I tried to begin to polish her-- + +HE + +Yes, you took a teacher. And what happened? + +MANCINI + +[_Nodding his head_]: I was frightened--it went too fast--I had to +dismiss him. Another month or two, and _she_ would have kicked _me_ out. +[_Laughs._] The clever old diamond merchants of Amsterdam keep their +precious stones unpolished, and fool the thieves. My father taught me +that. + +HE + +The sleep of a diamond. It is only sleeping, then. You are wise, +Mancini. + +MANCINI + +Do you know what blood flows in the veins of an Italian woman? The blood +of Hannibal and Corsini--of a Borgia--and of a dirty Lombardi +peasant--and of a Moor. Oh! an Italian woman is not of a lower race, +with only peasants and gypsies behind her. All possibilities, all forms +are included in her, as in our marvelous sculpture. Do you understand +that, you fool? Strike here--out springs a washerwoman, or a cheap +street girl whom you want to throw out, because she is sloppy and has a +screechy voice. Strike there--but carefully and gently, for there stands +a queen, a goddess, the Venus of the Capitol, who sings like a +Stradivarius and makes you cry, idiot! An Italian woman-- + +HE + +You're quite a poet, Mancini! But what will the Baron make of her? + +MANCINI + +What? What? Make of _her_? A baroness, you fool! What are you laughing +at? I don't get you? But I am happy that this lovesick beast is neither +a duke nor a prince--or she would be a princess and I--what would become +of me? A year after the wedding they would not let me even into the +kitchen [_laughing_] not even into the kitchen! I, Count Mancini, and +she a--a simple-- + +HE + +[_Jumping up_]: What did you say? You are not her father, Mancini? + +MANCINI + +Tss--the devil--I am so nervous to-day! Heavens, who do you think I am? +"Her father?" Of course [_tries to laugh_] how silly you are--haven't +you noticed the family resemblance? Just look, the nose, the +eyes--[_Suddenly sighs deeply._] Ah, HE! How unhappy I am! Think of it. +Here I am, a gentleman, nearly beaten in my struggle to keep up the +honour of my name, of an old house, while there in the parquet--there +sits that beast, an elephant with the eyes of a spider ... and he looks +at Consuelo ... and.... + +HE + +Yes, yes, he has the motionless stare of a spider--you're right! + +MANCINI + +Just what I say--a spider! But I must, I shall compel him to marry her. +You'll see--[_Walking excitedly up and down, playing with his cane._] +You'll see! All my life I've been getting ready for this battle. [_He +continues to walk up and down. Silence. Outside, great stillness._] + +HE + +[_Listening_]: Why is it so quiet out there? What a strange silence. + +MANCINI + +[_Disgusted_]: I don't know. Out there it is quiet--but here [_touching +his forehead with his cane_] here is storm, whirlwind. [_Bends over the +clown._] HE, shall I tell you a strange thing--an unusual trick of +nature? [_Laughs, and looks very important._] For three centuries the +Counts Mancini have had no children! [_Laughs._] + +HE + +Then how were you born? + +MANCINI + +Sh! Silence! That is the secret of our sainted mothers! Ha-ha! We are +too ancient a stock--too exquisitely refined to trouble ourselves with +such things--matters in which a peasant is more competent than +ourselves. [_Enter an usher._] What do you want? The manager is on the +stage. + +THE USHER + +Yes, sir. Baron Regnard wished me to give you this letter. + +MANCINI + +The Baron? Is he there? + +THE USHER + +Baron Regnard has left. There is no answer. + +MANCINI + +[_Opening the envelope, his hand shaking_]: The devil--the devil! [_The +usher is going._] + +HE + +Just a minute. Why is there no music? This silence.... + +THE USHER + +It is the act with Madame Zinida and her lions. [_He goes._ MANCINI _is +reading the_ BARON'S _note for the second time._] + +HE + +What's the matter, Mancini? You shine like Jackson's sun. + +MANCINI + +What's the matter, did you ask? What's the matter? What's the matter? +[_Balancing his cane, he takes steps like a ballet-dancer._] + +HE + +Mancini! [MANCINI _rolls his eyes, makes faces, dances_.] Speak, you +beast! + +MANCINI + +[_Holds out his hand_]: Give me ten francs! Quick--ten francs--here, +come on. [_Puts it automatically into his vest pocket._] Listen, HE! If +in a month I don't have a car of my own, you may give me one of your +slaps! + +HE + +What! He's going to marry? He's decided? + +MANCINI + +What do you mean by "decided?" [_Laughs._] When a man has the rope about +his neck, you don't ask him about his health! Baron--[_Stops suddenly, +startled._ BRIQUET _is staggering in like a drunken man, his hand over +his eyes_.] + +HE + +[_Goes to him, touches his shoulder gently_]: What is the matter, Papa +Briquet? Tell me! + +BRIQUET + +[_Groaning_]: Oh, oh, I can't ... I can't ... Ah---- + +HE + +Something has happened? You are ill? Please speak. + +BRIQUET + +I can't look at it! [_Takes his hands from his eyes, opens them wide._] +Why does she do it? Ah, ah, why does she do it? She must be taken away; +she is insane. I couldn't look at it. [_Shivers._] They will tear her to +pieces. HE--her lions--they will tear her-- + +MANCINI + +Go on, Briquet. She is always like that. You act like a child. You ought +to be ashamed. + +BRIQUET + +No---- To-day she is mad! And what is the matter with the crowd? +They are all like dead people--they're not even breathing. I couldn't +stand it. Listen--what's that? [_All listen. There is the same +silence._] + +MANCINI + +[_Disturbed_]: I'll go and see. + +BRIQUET + +[_Yelling_]: No! Don't! You can't look--damned profession! Don't go. You +will scorch her--every pair of eyes that looks at her--at her lions--no, +no. It is impossible--it is a sacrilege. I ran away.... HE, they will +tear her---- + +HE + +[_Tries to be cheerful_]: Keep cool, Papa Briquet--I had no idea you +were such a coward. You ought to be ashamed. Have a drink. Mancini, give +him some wine. + +BRIQUET + +I don't want any. Heavens, if it were only over---- [_All +listen._] I have seen many things in my life, but this.... Oh, she is +crazy. [_All still listen. Suddenly the silence breaks, like a huge +stone wall crashing. There is a thunder of applause, mixed with shouts, +music, wild screams--half bestial, half human. The men give way, +relieved. Briquet sinks to a seat._] + +MANCINI + +[_Nervous_]: You see--you see--you old fool! + +BRIQUET + +[_Sobs and laughs_]: I am not going to allow it any more! + +HE + +Here she is! + + [_Zinida walks in, alone. She looks like a drunken bacchante, or + like a mad woman. Her hair falls over her shoulders dishevelled, + one shoulder is uncovered. She walks unseeing, though her eyes + glow. She is like the living statue of a mad Victory. Behind her + comes an actor, very pale, then two clowns, and a little later + Consuelo and Bezano. All look at Zinida fearfully, as if they were + afraid of a touch of her hand, or her great eyes._] + +BRIQUET + +[_Shouting_]: You are crazy--you're a mad woman! + +ZINIDA + +I? No. Did you see? Did you see? Well? [_She stands smiling, with the +expression of a mad Victory._] + +TILLY + +[_Plaintively_]: Cut it out, Zinida. Go to the devil! + +ZINIDA + +You saw, too! And!... what---- + +BRIQUET + +Come home--come home. [_To the others_] You can do what you like here. +Zinida, come home. + +POLLY + +You can't go, Papa. There's still your number. + +ZINIDA + +[_Her eyes meet those of Bezano_]: Ah! Bezano. [_Laughs long and +happily_.] Bezano! Alfred! Did you see? My lions _do_ love me! [_Bezano, +without answering, leaves the stage. Zinida seems to wither and grow +dim, as a light being extinguished. Her smile fades, her eyes and face +grow pale. Briquet anxiously bends over her._] + +BRIQUET + +[_In a slow voice_]: A chair! [_Zinida sits. Her head drops on her +shoulder, her arms fall, she begins to shiver and tremble. Some one +calls, "Cognac"--an actor runs to get it._] + +BRIQUET + +[_Helpless_]: What is the matter, Zinida darling? + +MANCINI + +[_Running about_]: She must quiet down. Get out, get out--vagabonds! +I'll fix everything, Papa Briquet. The wrap--where's the wrap? She's +cold. [_A clown hands it to him; they cover her._] + +TILLY + +[_Timidly_]: Wouldn't you like some moosic? + +MANCINI + +[_Giving her some cognac_]: Drink, Duchess, drink! Drink it all--that's +it. [ZINIDA _drinks it like water, evidently not noticing the taste. She +shivers. The clowns disappear one by one._ CONSUELO, _with a sudden +flexible movement, falls on her knees before_ ZINIDA _and kisses her +hands, warming them between her own_.] + +CONSUELO + +Dear, dear, you are cold! Poor little hands, dear good one, beloved +one---- + +ZINIDA + +[_Pushes her away, gently_]: Ho--home. It will soon be over. It's +nothing ... I am ver--very ... home.... You stay here, Briquet--you +must. I'm all right. + +CONSUELO + +You are cold? Here is my shawl. + +ZINIDA + +No--let me.... [CONSUELO _gets up, and moves aside._] + +BRIQUET + +And it's all because of your books, Zinida--your mythology. Now tell me, +why do you want those beasts to love you? Beasts! Do you understand, HE? +You too, you're from that world. She'll listen more to you. Explain it +to her. Whom can those beasts love? Those hairy monsters, with diabolic +eyes? + +HE + +[_Genially_]: I believe--only their equals. You are right, Papa +Briquet--there must be the same race. + +BRIQUET + +Of course, and this is all nonsense--literature. Explain it to her, HE. + +HE + +[_Takes on a meditative air_]: Yes, you are right, Briquet. + +BRIQUET + +You see, dear, silly woman--everybody agrees.... + +MANCINI + +Oh! Briquet, you make me sick; you are an absolute despot, an Asiatic. + +ZINIDA + +[_With the shadow of a smile, gives her hand to be kissed_]: Calm +yourself, Louis. It is over--I am going home. [_She stands up, shaking, +still chilled._] + +BRIQUET + +But how? alone, dear? + +MANCINI + +What! fool! Did you imagine that Count Mancini would leave a woman when +she needed help? I shall take her home--let your brutal heart be at +rest--I shall take her home. Thomas, run for an automobile. Don't push +me Briquet, you are as awkward as a unicorn ... that's the way, that's +the way---- [_They are holding her, guiding her slowly toward the door_]. +CONSUELO, _her chin resting in her hand, is following them with her +eyes. Unconsciously she assumes a somewhat affected pose._] + +MANCINI + +I'll come back for you, child---- [_Only_ HE _and_ CONSUELO _are left on +the stage. In the ring, music, shrieks, and laughter begin again._] + +HE + +Consuelo---- + +CONSUELO + +Is that you, HE, dear? + +HE + +Where did you learn that pose? I have seen it only in marble. You look +like Psyche. + +CONSUELO + +I don't know, HE. [_She sighs and sits on the sofa, keeping in her pose +the same artificiality and beauty._] It's all so sad here, to-day. HE, +are you sorry for ZINIDA? + +HE + +What did she do? + +CONSUELO + +I didn't see. I had closed my eyes, and didn't open them. Alfred says +she is a wicked woman, but that isn't true. She has such nice eyes, and +what tiny cold hands--as if she were dead. What does she do it for? +Alfred says she should be audacious, beautiful, but quiet, otherwise +what she does is only disgusting. It isn't true, is it, HE? + +HE + +She loves Alfred. + +CONSUELO + +Alfred? My Bezano? [_Shrugging her shoulders, and surprised_] How does +she love him? The same as everyone loves? + +HE + +Yes--as everyone loves--or still more. + +CONSUELO + +Bezano? Bezano? No--it's nonsense. [_Pause; silence._] What a beautiful +costume you have, HE. You invented it yourself? + +HE + +Jim helped me. + +CONSUELO + +Jim is so nice! All clowns are nice. + +HE + +I am wicked. + +CONSUELO + +[_Laughs_]: You? You are the nicest of all. Oh, goodness! Three acts +more! This is the second on now. Alfred and I are in the third. Are you +coming to see me? + +HE + +I always do. How beautiful you are, Consuelo. + +CONSUELO + +Like Eve? [_Smiles._] + +HE + +Yes, Consuelo. And if the Baron asks you to be his wife, will you +accept? + +CONSUELO + +Certainly, HE. That's all Father and I are waiting for. Father told me +yesterday that the Baron will not hesitate very long. Of course I do not +love him. But I will be his honest, faithful wife. Father wants to teach +me to play the piano. + +HE + +Are those your own words--"his honest, faithful wife"? + +CONSUELO + +Certainly they are mine. Whose could they be? He loves me so much, the +poor thing. Dear HE, what does "love" mean? Everybody speaks of +love--love--Zinida, too! Poor Zinida! What a boring evening this has +been! HE, did you paint the laughter on your face yourself? + +HE + +My own self, dear little Consuelo---- + +CONSUELO + +How do you do it, all of you? I tried once, but couldn't do a thing. Why +are there no women clowns? Why are you so silent, HE? You, too, are sad, +to-night. + +HE + +No, I am happy to-night. Give me your hand, Consuelo, I want to see what +it says. + +CONSUELO + +Do you know how? What a talented man you are! Read it, but don't _lie_, +like a gypsy. [_He goes down on one knee and takes her hand. Both bend +over it._] Am I lucky? + +HE + +Yes, lucky. But wait a minute--this line here--funny. Ah, Consuelo, what +does it say, here! [_Acting_] I tremble, my eyes do not dare to read the +strange, fatal signs. Consuelo-- + +CONSUELO + +The stars are talking. + +HE + +Yes, the stars are talking. Their voices are distant and terrible; their +rays are pale, and their shadows slip by, like the ghosts of dead +virgins--their spell is upon thee, Consuelo, beautiful Consuelo. Thou +standest at the door of Eternity. + +CONSUELO + +I don't understand. Does it mean that I will live long? + +HE + +This line--how far it goes. Strange! Thou wilt live eternally, Consuelo. + +CONSUELO + +You see, HE, you did tell me a lie, just like a gypsy! + +HE + +But it is written--here, silly--and here. Now think of what the stars +are saying. Here you have eternal life, love, and glory; and here, +listen to what Jupiter says. He says: "Goddess, thou must not belong to +any one born on earth," and if you marry the Baron--you'll perish, +you'll die, Consuelo. [_Consuelo laughs._] + +CONSUELO + +Will he eat me? + +HE + +No. But you will die before he has time to eat you. + +CONSUELO + +And what will become of Father? Is there nothing about him here? +[_Laughing, she softly sings the melody of the waltz, which is playing +in the distance._] + +HE + +Don't laugh, Consuelo, at the voice of the stars. They are far away, +their rays are light and pale, and we can barely see their sleeping +shadows, but their sorcery is stern and dark. You stand at the gates of +eternity. Your die is cast; you are _doomed_--and your Alfred, whom you +love in your heart, even though your mind is not aware of it, your +Alfred cannot save you. He, too, is a stranger on this earth. He is +submerged in a deep sleep. He, too, is a little god who has lost +himself, and Consuelo, never, never will he find his way to Heaven +again. Forget Bezano---- + +CONSUELO + +I don't understand a word. Do the gods really exist? My teacher told me +about them. But I thought it was all tales! [_Laughs._] And my Bezano +is a god? + +HE + +Forget Bezano! Consuelo, do you know who can save you? The only one who +can save you? I. + +CONSUELO + +[_Laughing_]: You, HE? + +HE + +Yes, but don't laugh! Look. Here is the letter H. It is I, HE. + +CONSUELO + +HE Who Gets Slapped? Is that written here, too? + +HE + +That, too. The stars know everything. But look here, what more is +written about him. Consuelo, welcome him. HE is an old god in disguise, +who came down to earth only to love you, foolish little Consuelo. + +CONSUELO + +[_Laughing and singing_]: Some god! + +HE + +Don't mock! The gods don't like such, empty laughter from beautiful +lips. The gods grow lonely and die, when they are not recognized. Oh, +Consuelo! Oh, great joy and love! Do recognize this god, and accept him. +Think a moment, one day a god suddenly went crazy! + +CONSUELO + +Gods go crazy, too? + +HE + +Yes, when they are half man, then they often go mad. Suddenly he saw his +own sublimity, and shuddered with horror, with infinite solitude, with +super-human anguish. It is terrible, when anguish touches the divine +soul! + +CONSUELO + +I don't like it. What language are you speaking? I don't understand---- + +HE + +I speak the language of thy awakening. Consuelo, recognize and accept +thy god, who was thrown down from the summit like a stone. Accept the +god who fell to the earth in order to live, to play, and to be +infinitely drunk with joy. Evoe Goddess! + +CONSUELO + +[_Tortured_]: HE---- I cannot understand. Let my hand alone. + +HE + +[_Stands up_]: Sleep. Then wake again, Consuelo! And when thou +wakest--remember that hour when, covered with snow-white sea-foam, thou +didst emerge from the sky-blue waters. Remember heaven, and the slow +eastern wind, and the whisper of the foam at thy marble feet. + +CONSUELO + +[_Her eyes are closed_]: I believe--wait--I remember. Remind me +further---- + + [HE _is bowed over_ CONSUELO, _with lifted arms; he speaks slowly, + but in a commanding voice, as if conjuring_.] + +HE + +You see the waves playing. Remember the song of the sirens, their +sorrowless song of joy. Their white bodies, shining blue through the +blue waters. Or can you hear the sun, singing? Like the strings of a +divine harp, spread the golden rays---- Do you not see the hand +of God, which gives harmony, light, and love to the world? Do not the +mountains, in the blue cloud of incense, sing their hymn of glory? +Remember, O Consuelo, remember the prayer of the mountains, the prayer +of the sea. [_Silence._] + +HE + +[_Commandingly_]: Remember--Consuelo! + +CONSUELO + +[_Opening her eyes_]: No! HE, I was feeling so happy, and suddenly I +forgot it all. Yet something of it all is still in my heart. Help me +again, HE, remind me. It hurts, I hear so many voices. They all sing +"Consuelo--Consuelo." What comes after? [_Silence; pause._] What comes +after? It hurts. Remind me, HE. [_Silence--in the ring, the music +suddenly bursts forth in a tempestuous circus gallop. Silence._] HE, +[_opens her eyes and smiles_] that's Alfred galloping. Do you recognize +his music? + +HE + +[_With rage_]: Leave the boy alone! [_Suddenly falls on his knees +before_ CONSUELO.] _I love you, Consuelo_, revelation of my heart, light +of my nights, I love you, Consuelo. [_Looks at her in ecstasy and +tears--and gets a slap; starting back._] What's this? + +CONSUELO + +A slap! You forget who you are. [_Stands up, with anger in her eyes._] +You are HE Who Gets Slapped! Did you forget it? Some god! With such a +face--slapped face! Was it with slaps they threw you down from heaven, +god? + +HE + +Wait! Don't stand up! I--did not finish the play! + +CONSUELO + +[_Sits_]: Then you were playing? + +HE + +Wait! One minute. + +CONSUELO + +You lied to me. Why did you play so that I believed you? + +HE + +I am HE Who Gets Slapped! + +CONSUELO + +You are not angry because I struck you? I did not want to really, but +you were so--disgusting. And now you are so funny again. You have great +talent, HE--or are you drunk? + +HE + +Strike me again. + +CONSUELO + +No. + +HE + +I need it for my play. Strike! + +CONSUELO + +[_Laughs, and touches his cheek with her fingertips_]: Here, then! + +HE + +Didn't you understand that you are a queen, and I a fool who is in love +with his queen? Don't you know, Consuelo, that every queen has a fool, +and he is always in love with her, and they always beat him for it. HE +Who Gets Slapped. + +CONSUELO + +No. I didn't know. + +HE + +Yes, every queen. Beauty has her fool. Wisdom, too. Oh, how many fools +she has! Her court is overcrowded with enamoured fools, and the sound of +slaps does not cease, even through the night. But I never received such +a sweet slap as the one given by my little queen. [_Someone appears at +the door._ HE _notices it, and continues to play, making many faces_.] +Clown HE can have no rival! Who is there who could stand such a deluge +of slaps, such a hail-storm of slaps, and not get soaked? [_Feigns to +cry aloud._] "Have pity on me. I am but a poor fool!" + + [_Enter two men: an actor, dressed as a bareback rider, and a + gentleman from the audience. He is spare, dressed in black, very + respectable. He carries his hat in his hand._] + +CONSUELO + +[_Laughing, embarrassed_]: HE, there is someone here. Stop! + +HE + +[_Gets up_]: Who is it? Who dares to intrude in the castle of my queen? + +[_HE stops, suddenly. Consuelo, laughing, jumps up and runs away, after +a quick glance at the gentleman._] + +CONSUELO + +You cheered me up, HE. Good-bye. [_At the door_] You shall get a note +to-morrow. + +THE BAREBACK RIDER + +[_Laughing_]: A jolly fellow, sir. You wanted to see him? There he is. +HE, the gentleman wants to see you. + +HE + +[_In a depressed voice_]: What can I do for you? + + [_The actor bows, and goes away, smiling. Both men take a step + toward each other._] + +GENTLEMAN + +Is this you? + +HE + +Yes! It is I. And you? [_Silence._] + +GENTLEMAN + +Must I believe my eyes? Is this _you_, Mr.---- + +HE + +[_In a rage_]: My name here is HE. I have no other name, do you hear? HE +Who Gets Slapped. And if you want to stay here, don't forget it. + +GENTLEMAN + +You are so familiar. As far as I can remember---- + +HE + +We are all familiar, here. [_Contemptuously_] Besides, that's all you +deserve, anywhere. + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Humbly_]: You have not forgiven me, HE? [_Silence._] + +HE + +Are you here with my wife? Is she, too, in the circus? + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Quickly_]: Oh, no! I am alone. She stayed there! + +HE + +You've left her already? + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Humbly_]: No--we have--a son. After your sudden and mysterious +disappearance--when you left that strange and insulting letter---- + +HE + +[_Laughs_]: Insulting? You are still able to feel insults? What are you +doing here? Were you looking for me, or is it an accident? + +GENTLEMAN + +I have been looking for you, for half a year--through many countries. +And suddenly, to-day--by accident, indeed--I had no acquaintances here, +and I went to the circus. We must talk things over ... HE, I implore +you. [_Silence._] + +HE + +Here is a shadow I cannot lose! To talk things over! Do you really think +we still have something to talk over? All right. Leave your address with +the porter, and I will let you know when you can see me. Now get out. +[_Proudly._] I am busy. + + [_The gentleman bows and leaves. HE does not return his bow, but + stands with outstretched hand, in the pose of a great man, who + shows a boring visitor the door._] + +CURTAIN + + + + +ACT III + + +_The same room. Morning, before the rehearsal. HE is striding +thoughtfully up and down the room. He wears a broad, parti-coloured +coat, and a prismatic tie. His derby is on the back of his head, and his +face is clean-shaven like that of an actor. His eyebrows are drawn, lips +pressed together energetically, his whole appearance severe and sombre. +After the entrance of the gentleman he changes. His face becomes +clown-like, mobile--a living mask._ + +_The gentleman comes in. He is dressed in black, and has an extremely +well-bred appearance. His thin face is yellowish, like an invalid's. +When he is upset, his colourless, dull eyes often twitch. HE does not +notice him._ + +GENTLEMAN + +Good morning, sir. + +HE + +[_Turning around and looking at him absent-mindedly_]: Ah! It's you. + +GENTLEMAN + +I am not late? You look as if you did not expect me. I hope I am not +disturbing you? You fixed this time yourself however, and I took the +liberty---- + +HE + +No manners, please. What do you want? Tell me quickly, I have no time. + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Looking around with distaste_]: I expected you would invite me to some +other place ... to your home. + +HE + +I have no other home. This is my home. + +GENTLEMAN + +But people may disturb us here. + +HE + +So much the worse for you. Talk faster! [_Silence._] + +GENTLEMAN + +Will you allow me to sit down? + +HE + +Sit down. Look out! That chair is broken. + + [_The gentleman, afraid, pushes away the chair and looks helplessly + around. Everything here seems to him dangerous and strange. He + chooses an apparently solid little gilded divan, and sits down; + puts his silk hat aside, slowly takes off his gloves, which stick + to his fingers. HE observes him indifferently._] + +GENTLEMAN + +In this suit, and with this face, you make a still stranger impression. +Yesterday it seemed to me that it was all a dream; to-day ... _you_ ... + +HE + +You have forgotten my name again? My name is HE. + +GENTLEMAN + +You are determined to continue talking to me like this? + +HE + +Decidedly! But you are squandering your time like a millionaire. Hurry +up! + +GENTLEMAN + +I really don't know.... Everything here strikes me so.... These posters, +horses, animals, which I passed when I was looking for you.... And +finally, _you_, a clown in a circus! [_With a slight, deprecating +smile._] Could I expect it? It is true, when everybody there decided +that you were dead, I was the only man who did not agree with them. I +felt that you were still alive. But to find you among such +surroundings--I can't understand it. + +HE + +You said you have a son, now. Doesn't he look like me? + +GENTLEMAN + +I don't understand? + +HE + +Don't you know that widows or divorced women often have children by the +new husband, which resemble the old one? This misfortune did not befall +you? [_Laughs._] And your book, too, is a big success, I hear. + +GENTLEMAN + +You want to insult me again? + +HE + +[_Laughing_]: What a restless, touchy faker you are! Please sit still; +be quiet. It is the custom here to speak this way. Why were you trying +to find me? + +GENTLEMAN + +My conscience.... + +HE + +You have no conscience. Or were you afraid that you hadn't robbed me of +_everything_ I possessed, and you came for the rest? But what more could +you take from me now? My fool's cap with its bells? You wouldn't take +it. It's too big for your bald head! Crawl back, you book-worm! + +GENTLEMAN + +You cannot forgive the fact that your wife.... + +HE + +To the devil with my wife! [_The gentleman is startled and raises his +eyebrows. HE laughs._] + +GENTLEMAN + +I don't know.... But such language! I confess I find difficulty in +expressing my thoughts in such an atmosphere, but if you are so ... +indifferent to your wife, who, I shall allow myself to emphasize the +fact, loved you and thought you were a saint---- [_HE laughs._] +Then _what_ brought you to such a ... step? Or is it that you cannot +forgive me my success? A success, it is true, not entirely deserved. And +now you want to take vengeance, with your humbleness, on those who +misunderstood you. But you always were so indifferent to glory. Or your +indifference was only hypocrisy. And when I, a more lucky rival ... + +HE + +[_With a burst of laughter_]: Rival! You--a rival! + +GENTLEMAN + +[Growing Pale]: But my book! + +HE + +You are talking to me about _your_ book? To me? [_The gentleman is very +pale. HE looks at him with curiosity and mockery._] + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Raising his eyes_]: I am a very unhappy man. + +HE + +Why? + +GENTLEMAN + +I am a very unhappy man. You must forgive me. I am deeply, irreparably, +and infinitely unhappy. + +HE + +But why? Explain it to me. [_Starts walking up and down._] You say +yourself that your book is a tremendous success, you are famous, you +have glory; there is not a yellow newspaper in which _you_ and _your_ +thoughts are not mentioned. Who knows _me_? Who cares about my heavy +abstractions, from which it was difficult for them to derive a single +thought? You--you are the great vulgarizer! You have made my thoughts +comprehensible even to horses! With the art of a great vulgarizer, a +tailor of ideas, you dressed my Apollo in a barber's jacket, you handed +my Venus a yellow ticket, and to my bright hero you gave the ears of an +ass. And then your career is made, as Jackson says. And wherever I go, +the whole street looks at me with thousands of faces, in which--what +mockery--I recognize the traits of my own children. Oh! How ugly your +son must be, if he resembles me! Why then are you unhappy, you poor +devil? [_The gentleman bows his head, plucking at his gloves._] The +police haven't caught you, as yet. What am I talking about? Is it +possible to catch you? You always keep within the limits of the law. You +have been torturing yourself up to now because you are not married to my +wife. A notary public is always present at your thefts. What is the use +of this self-torture, my friend? Get married. I died. You are not +satisfied with having taken only my wife? Let my glory remain in your +possession. It is yours. Accept my ideas. Assume all the rights, my most +lawful heir! I died! And when I was dying [_making a stupidly pious +face_] I forgave thee! [_Bursts out laughing. The gentleman raises his +head, and bending forward, looks straight into HE's eyes._] + +GENTLEMAN + +And my pride? + +HE + +Have you any pride? [_The gentleman straightens up, and nods his head +silently._] Yes! But please stand off a little. I don't like to look at +you. Think of it. There was a time when I loved you a little, even +thought you a little gifted! You--my empty shadow. + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Nodding his head_]: I am your shadow. [_HE keeps on walking, and looks +over his shoulder at the gentleman, with a smile._] + +HE + +Oh, you are marvellous! What a comedy! What a touching comedy! Listen. +Tell me frankly if you can; do you hate me very much? + +GENTLEMAN + +Yes! With all the hate there is in the world! Sit down here. + +HE + +You order me? + +GENTLEMAN + +Sit down here. Thank you. [_Bows._] I am respected and I am famous, yes? +I have a wife and a son, yes. [_Laughs slowly._] My wife still loves +you: our favourite discussion is about your genius. She supposes you are +a genius. We, I and she, love you even when we are in bed. Tss! It is I +who must make faces. My son--yes, he'll resemble you. And when, in order +to have a little rest, I go to my desk, to my ink-pot, my books--there, +too, I find you. Always you! Everywhere you! And I am never alone--never +myself and alone. And when at night--you, sir, should understand +this--when at night I go to my lonely thoughts, to my sleepless +contemplations, even then I find your image in my head, in my +unfortunate brain, your damned and hateful image! [_Silence. The +gentleman's eyes twitch._] + +HE + +[_Speaking slowly_]: What a comedy. How marvellously everything is +turned about in this world: the robbed proves to be a robber, and the +robber is complaining of theft, and cursing! [_Laughs._] Listen, I was +mistaken. You are not my shadow. You are the crowd. If you live by my +creations, you hate me; if you breathe my breath, you are choking with +anger. And choking with anger, hating me, you still walk slowly on the +trail of my ideas. But you are advancing backward, advancing backward, +comrade! Oh, what a marvellous comedy! [_Walking and smiling._] Tell me, +would you be relieved if I really had died? + +GENTLEMAN + +Yes! I think so. Death augments distance and dulls the memory. Death +reconciles. But you do not look like a man who---- + +HE + +Yes, yes! Death, _certainly_! + +GENTLEMAN + +Sit down here. + +HE + +Your obedient servant. Yes? + +GENTLEMAN + +Certainly, I do not dare to ask you--[_makes a grimace_] to ask you to +die, but tell me: you'll never come back there? No, don't laugh. If you +want me to, I'll kiss your hand. Don't grimace! I would have done so if +you had died. + +HE + +[_Slowly_]: Get out, vermin! + + [_Enter Tilly and Polly as in the first act, playing. For a long + time they do not see the two men._] + +HE + +Jack! + +TILLY + +Ah! Good morning, HE. We are rehearsing. You know it is very hard. Jack +has just about as much music in his head as my pig. + +HE + +[_Introducing, nonchalantly_]: My friend.... For the benefit +performance? [_The clowns bow to the gentleman, making idiotic faces._] + +POLLY + +Yes. What are you preparing? You are cunning, HE! Consuelo told me what +you are preparing for the benefit performance. She leaves us soon, you +know? + +HE + +Is that so? + +TILLY + +Zinida told us. Do you think she would get a benefit performance +otherwise? She is a nice girl. + +POLLY + +[_Taking his small flute-pipe_]: Here! Don't walk as if you were an +elephant. Don't forget you are an ant! Come on! [_They go off, +playing._] + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Smiling_]: These are your new comrades? How strange they are! + +HE + +Everything here is strange. + +GENTLEMAN + +This suit of yours. Black used to be very becoming to you. This one +hurts the eyes. + +HE + +[_Looking himself over_]: Why? It looks very nice. The rehearsal has +begun. You must go away. You are disturbing us. + +GENTLEMAN + +You did not answer my question. + + [_Slow strains of the Tango from a small orchestra in the ring._] + +HE + +[_Listening absent-mindedly to the music_]: What question? + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Who does not hear the music_]: I pray you to tell me: will you ever +come back? + +HE + +[_Listening to the music_]: Never, never, never! + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Getting up_]: Thank you. I am going. + +HE + +Never, never, never! Yes, run along. And don't come back. There you were +still bearable and useful for something, but here you are superfluous. + +GENTLEMAN + +But if something should happen to you ... you are a healthy man, but in +this environment, these people ... how will I know? They don't know your +name here? + +HE + +My name here is unknown, but _you will know_. Anything else? + +GENTLEMAN + +I can be at peace? On your word of honour? Of course I mean, +comparatively, at peace? + +HE + +Yes, you may be comparatively at peace. Never! [_They walk to the door, +the gentleman stops._] + +GENTLEMAN + +May I come to the circus? You will allow me? + +HE + +Certainly. You are the audience! [_Laughs._] But I shan't give you my +card for a pass. But why do you want to come? Or do you like the circus +so much, and since when? + +GENTLEMAN + +I want to look at you some more, and to understand, perhaps. Such a +transformation! Knowing you as I do, I cannot admit that you are here +without any _idea_. But what idea? [_Looks short-sightedly at HE. HE +grimaces and thumbs his nose._] + +GENTLEMAN + +What is that? + +HE + +_My idea!_ Good-bye, Prince! My regards to your respected wife, your +Highness' wonderful son! [_Enter_ MANCINI.] + +MANCINI + +You positively live in the circus, HE. Whenever I come, you are here. +You are a fanatic in your work, sir. + +HE + +[_Introducing_]: Prince Poniatovsky, Count Mancini. + +MANCINI + +[_Drawing himself up_]: Very, very glad. And you too, Prince, you know +my queer fellow? What a nice face he has, hasn't he? [_He touches HE'S +shoulder patronizingly, with the tip of his cane._] + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Awkwardly_]: Yes, I have the pleasure ... certainly. Good-bye, Count. + +MANCINI + +Good-day, Prince. + +HE + +[_Accompanying him_]: Look out, your Highness, for the dark passages: +the steps are so rotten. Unfortunately I cannot usher you out to the +street. + +GENTLEMAN + +[_In a low voice_]: You will not give me your hand when we say good-bye? +We are parting for ever. + +HE + +Unnecessary, Prince. I shall still hope to meet you in the Kingdom of +Heaven. I trust you will be there, too? + +GENTLEMAN + +[_With disgust_]: How you did succeed! You have so much of the clown in +you! + +HE + +I am HE Who is Getting Slapped. Good-bye, Prince. [_They take another +step._] + +GENTLEMAN + +[_Looking HE in the eyes; in a very low voice_]: Tell me, you are not +mad? + +HE + +[_Just at low, his eyes wide open_]: I am afraid, I am afraid you are +right, Prince. [_Still low_] Ass! Never in your life did you use such a +precise expression. I am mad! + + [_Playing the clown again, he shows him to the stair, with a big, + affected gesture, a sweep of the hand and arm from his head to the + floor, the fingers moving, to represent the steps._] + +HE + +[_Laughing_]: He is down! _Au revoir_, Prince. [_The gentleman goes out. +HE comes skipping back, and takes a pose._] Mancini! Let us dance the +Tango! Mancini, I adore you! + +MANCINI + +[_Sitting back comfortably and playing with his cane_]: Don't forget +yourself, HE. But you're hiding something, my boy. I always said you +used to belong to society. It is so easy to talk to you. And who is this +Prince? A genuine one? + +HE + +Genuine. A first-rater. Like you! + +MANCINI + +A sympathetic face. Although at first I thought he was an undertaker who +came for an order. Ah, HE! When shall I finally depart from these dirty +walls, from Papa Briquet, stupid posters, and brutal jockeys! + +HE + +Very soon, Mancini. + +MANCINI + +Yes, soon. I am simply exhausted in these surroundings, HE! I begin to +feel myself a horse. You are from society, still you don't yet know what +high society means. To be at last decently dressed, to attend +receptions, to display the splendour of wit; from time to time to have a +game of baccarat [_laughing_] without tricks or cheating---- + +HE + +And when evening comes, go to a suburb, where you are considered an +honest father, who loves his children and---- + +MANCINI + +And get hold of something, eh? [_Laughs._] I shall wear a silk mask and +two butlers shall follow me, thus protecting me from the dirty crowd. +Ah, HE! The blood of my ancestors boils in me. Look at this stiletto. +What do you think? Do you think that it was ever stained with blood? + +HE + +You frighten me, Count! + +MANCINI + +[_Laughing, and putting the stiletto back into its sheath_]: Fool! + +HE + +And what about the girl? + +MANCINI + +Tss! I give those bourgeois absolute satisfaction, and they glorify my +name. [_Laughs._] The splendour of my name is beginning to shine with a +force unknown. By the way, do you know what automobile firms are the +best? Money is no object. [_Laughs._] Ah! Papa Briquet! + + [_Enter Briquet in his overcoat and silk hat. They shake hands._] + +BRIQUET + +So, Mancini, you have obtained a benefit performance for your daughter, +Consuelo! I only want to tell you, that if it were not for Zinida.... + +MANCINI + +Listen, Briquet. Decidedly you are a donkey. What are you complaining +of? The Baron has bought all the parquet seats for Consuelo's benefit +performance. Isn't that enough for you, you miser? + +BRIQUET + +I love your daughter, Mancini, and I am sorry to let her go. What more +does she need here? She has an honest job, wonderful comrades, and the +atmosphere--? + +MANCINI + +Not _she_, but _I_ need something. You understand? [_Laughs._] I asked +you to increase her salary, Harpagon! and now, Mr. Manager, wouldn't you +like to change me a thousand franc note? + +BRIQUET + +[_With a sigh_]: Give it to me. + +MANCINI + +[_Nonchalantly_]: To-morrow. I left it at home. [_All three laugh._] +Laugh, laugh! To-day we are going with the Baron to his villa in the +country; people say a very nice villa. + +HE + +What for? + +MANCINI + +You know, HE, the crazes of these billionaires. He wants to show +Consuelo some winter roses, and me his wine cellars. He will come for us +here. What is the matter, my little Consuelo? + + [_Enter_ CONSUELO, _almost crying_.] + +CONSUELO + +I can't father! Tell him! What right has he to yell at me? He almost hit +me with his whip! + +MANCINI + +[_Straightening up_]: Briquet! I beg of you, as the Manager, what is +this--a stable? To hit my daughter with a whip! I'll show this cub ... a +mere jockey.... No, the devil knows what it is, devil knows, I swear.... + +CONSUELO + +Father.... + +BRIQUET + +I will tell him. + +CONSUELO + +Please don't. Alfred didn't hit me. It's a silly thing, what I told you. +What an idea! He is so sorry himself.... + +BRIQUET + +I shall tell him anyhow that---- + +CONSUELO + +Don't you dare. You mustn't tell him anything. He didn't do a thing. + +MANCINI + +[_Still excited_]: He must beg her pardon, the brat. + +CONSUELO + +He's already asked me to forgive him. How silly you all are! I simply +cannot work to-day and I got nervous. What nonsense! The silly boy asked +me to forgive him, but I didn't want to. HE, dear, good morning! I +didn't notice you. How becoming your tie is! Where are you going, +Briquet? To Alfred? + +BRIQUET + +No, I am going home, dear child. Zinida asked me to give you her love. +She will not be here to-day, either. [_He goes out._] + +CONSUELO + +Zinida is so nice, so good. Father, why is it that everybody seems so +nice to me? Probably because I am going away soon. HE, did you hear the +march that Tilly and Polly will play? [_Laughs._] Such a cheerful one. + +HE + +Yes. I heard it. Your benefit performance will be remarkable. + +CONSUELO + +I think so, too. Father I am hungry. Have them bring me a sandwich. + +HE + +I'll run for it, my Queen. + +CONSUELO + +Please do, HE. [_Loudly_] But not cheese. I don't like it. + + [MANCINI _and_ CONSUELO _are alone_. MANCINI, _lying back + comfortably in an armchair, scrutinizes his daughter with a + searching eye_.] + +MANCINI + +I find something particular in you to-day, my child. I don't know +whether it is something better or worse. You cried? + +CONSUELO + +Yes, a little. Oh, I am so hungry. + +MANCINI + +But you had your breakfast? + +CONSUELO + +No, I didn't. That's why I am so hungry. You again forgot to leave me +some money this morning, and without money.... + +MANCINI + +Oh, the devil ... what a memory I have. [_Laughs._] But we shall have a +very nice meal to-day. Don't eat very many sandwiches.... Yes, +positively I like you. You must cry more often, my child; it washes off +your superfluous simplicity. You become more of a woman. + +CONSUELO + +Am I so simple, Father? + +MANCINI + +Very.... Too much. I like it in others, but not in you. Besides, the +Baron.... + +CONSUELO + +Nonsense. I am not simple. But you know, Bezano scolded me so much, that +even you would have cried. The devil knows.... + +MANCINI + +Tsss.... Never say "the devil knows." It isn't decent. + +CONSUELO + +I say it only when I am with you. + +MANCINI + +You must not say it when you are with me, either. I know it without you. +[_Laughs._] + +CONSUELO + +Ha! Listen, Father! It's a new number of Alfred's. He makes such a jump! +Jim says he's bound to break his neck. Poor fish.... + +MANCINI + +[_Indifferently_]: Or his leg, or his back; they all have to break +something. [_Laughs._] They are breakable toys. + +CONSUELO + +[_Listening to the music_]: I'll be lonesome without them, Father! The +Baron promised to make a ring for me to gallop over as much as I want. +He's not lying? + +MANCINI + +A ring? [_Laughs._] No, it's not a lie. By the way, child, when speaking +of Barons, you must say, "he does not tell the truth," and not, "he +lies." + +CONSUELO + +It's just the same. It's nice to be wealthy, Father; you can do what you +want, then. + +MANCINI + +[_With enthusiasm_]: Everything you want. Everything, my child. Ah! Our +fate is being decided to-day. Pray our clement God, Consuelo. The Baron +is hanging on a thread. + +CONSUELO + +[_Indifferently_]: Yes? + +MANCINI + +[_Making the gesture with his fingers_]: On a very thin, silk thread. I +am almost sure that he will make his proposal to-day. [_Laughs._] Winter +roses, and the web of a spider amongst the roses, in order that my dear +little fly.... He is such a spider. + +CONSUELO + +[_Indifferently_]: Yes, a terrible spider. Father, oughtn't I to let him +kiss my hand yet? + +MANCINI + +By no means. You don't know yet, darling, what these men are. + +CONSUELO + +Alfred never kisses. + +MANCINI + +Alfred! Your Alfred is a cub, and he mustn't dare. But with men of that +sort, you must be extremely careful, my child. To-day he would kiss your +little finger, to-morrow your hand, and after to-morrow you would be on +his lap. + +CONSUELO + +Foui! Father, what are you talking about? You should be ashamed! + +MANCINI + +But I know.... + +CONSUELO + +Don't you dare! I don't want to hear such dirty things. I shall give the +Baron such a slap! A better one than HE--let him only try. + +MANCINI + +[_With a deprecating gesture_]: All men are like that, child. + +CONSUELO + +It isn't true. Alfred is not. Ah! But where is HE? He said he'd run, and +he hasn't come back. + +MANCINI + +The buffet here is closed, and he has to get the sandwiches somewhere +else. Consuelo, as your father, I want to warn you about HE. Don't trust +him. He knows something. [_Twirls his finger close to his forehead._] +His game is not fair. + +CONSUELO + +You say it about everybody. I know HE; he is such a nice man, and he +loves me so much. + +MANCINI + +Believe me, there is something in it. + +CONSUELO + +Father, you make me sick with your advice. Ah! HE, thank you. + +[_HE, breathing somewhat heavily, enters and gives her the sandwiches._] + +HE + +Eat, Consuelo. + +CONSUELO + +A hot one.... But you were running, HE? I am so grateful. [_Eats._] HE, +do you love me? + +HE + +I do, my Queen. I am your court fool. + +CONSUELO + +[_Eating_]: And when I leave, will you find another queen? + +HE + +[_Making a ceremonious bow_]: I shall follow after you, my incomparable +one. I shall carry the train of your dress and wipe away my tears with +it. [_Pretends to cry._] + +MANCINI + +Idiot! [_Laughs._] How sorry I am, HE, that those wonderful times have +passed, when, in the court of the Counts Mancini, there were scores of +motley fools who were given gold and kicks.... Now, Mancini is compelled +to go to this dirty circus in order to see a good fool; and still, whose +fool is he? Mine? No. He belongs to everybody who pays a franc. We shall +very soon be unable to breathe because of Democracy. Democracy, too, +needs fools! Think of it, HE; what an unexampled impertinence. + +HE + +We are the servants of those who pay. But how can we help it, Count? + +MANCINI + +But is that not sad? Imagine: we are in my castle. I, near the fireplace +with my glass of wine, you, at my feet chatting your nonsense, jingling +your little bells--diverting me. Sometimes you pinch me too with your +jokes: it is allowed by the traditions and necessary for the circulation +of the blood. After a while--I am sick of you, I want another one.... +Then I give you a kick and.... Ah, HE, how wonderful it would be! + +HE + +It would be marvellous, Mancini! + +MANCINI + +Yes. Certainly! You would be getting gold coins, those wonderfully +little yellow things.... Well, when I become rich, I shall take you. +That's settled. + +CONSUELO + +Take him, Father.... + +HE + +And when the count, tired of my chattering, will give me a kick with his +Highness's foot, then I shall lie down at the little feet of my queen, +and shall.... + +CONSUELO + +[_Laughing_]: Wait for another kick? I'm finished. Father, give me your +handkerchief, I want to wipe my hands. You have another one in your +pocket. Oh, my goodness, I must work some more! + +MANCINI + +[_Uneasy_]: But don't forget, my child! + +CONSUELO + +No, to-day I won't forget! Go on! + +MANCINI + +[_Looking at his watch_]: Yes, it is time.... He asked me to come over +when you were ready. You must change your dress before I come back. +[_Laughing._] _Signori, miei complimenti._ + + [_He goes out, playing with his cane._ CONSUELO _sits on the corner + of the divan, and covers herself with her shawl_.] + +CONSUELO + +Hello, HE! Come and lie down at my feet, and tell me something +cheerful.... You know, when you paint the laughter on your face, you are +very good looking, but now, too, you are very, very nice. Come on, HE, +why don't you lie down? + +HE + +Consuelo! Are you going to marry the Baron? + +CONSUELO + +[_Indifferently_]: It seems so. The Baron is hanging by a thread! HE, +there is one little sandwich left. Eat it. + +HE + +Thank you, my queen. [_Eats._] And do you remember my prediction? + +CONSUELO + +What prediction? How quickly you swallow! Does it taste good? + +HE + +Very good. That if you marry the Baron, you.... + +CONSUELO + +Oh, that's what you're talking about.... But you were making fun. + +HE + +Nobody can tell, my Queen. Sometimes one makes fun, and suddenly it +turns out to be true; the stars never talk in vain. If sometimes it is +difficult for a human being to open his mouth and to say a word, how +difficult it must be for a star. Think of it. + +CONSUELO + +[_Laughing_]: I should say. Such a mouth! [_Makes a tiny mouth._] + +HE + +No, my dear little girl, were I in your place, I would think it over. +And suppose suddenly you should die? Don't marry the Baron, Consuelo! + +CONSUELO + +[_Thinking_]: And what is--death? + +HE + +I do not know, my Queen. Nobody knows. Like love! Nobody knows. But your +little hands will become cold, and your dear little eyes will be closed. +You will be away from here. And the music will play without you, and +without you the crazy Bezano will be galloping, and Tilly and Polly will +be playing on their pipes without you: tilly-polly, tilly-polly ... +tilly-tilly, polly-polly.... + +CONSUELO + +Please don't, HE darling---- I am so sad, anyway ... tilly-tilly, +polly-polly ... [_Silence. HE looks at_ CONSUELO.] + +HE + +You were crying, my little Consuelo? + +CONSUELO + +Yes, a little. Alfred made me nervous. But tell me, is it my fault that +I can't do anything to-day? I tried to, but I couldn't. + +HE + +Why? + +CONSUELO + +Ah, I don't know. There is something here. [_Presses her hand against +her heart._] I don't know. HE, I must be sick. What is sickness? Does it +hurt very much? + +HE + +It is not sickness. It is the charm of the far off stars, Consuelo. It +is the voice of your fate, my little Queen. + +CONSUELO + +Don't talk nonsense, please. What should the stars care about me? I am +so small. Nonsense, HE! Tell me rather another tale which you know: +about the blue sea and those gods, you know ... who are so beautiful. +Did they all die? + +HE + +They are all alive, but they hide themselves, my goddess. + +CONSUELO + +In the woods or mountains? Can one come across them? Ah, imagine HE ... +I come across a god, and he suddenly takes a look at me! I'd run away. +[_Laughs._] This morning when I went without breakfast, I became so sad, +so disgusted, and I thought: if a god should come, and give me something +to eat! And as I thought it, I suddenly heard, honestly it's true, I +heard: "Consuelo, somebody's calling you." [_Angrily._] Don't you dare +laugh! + +HE + +Am I laughing? + +CONSUELO + +Honestly, it's true. Ah, HE, but he didn't come. He only called me and +disappeared, and how can you find him? It hurt me so much, and hurts +even now. Why did you remind me of my childhood? I'd forgotten it +entirely. There was the sea ... and something ... many, many [_closes +her eyes, smiling._] + +HE + +Remember, Consuelo. + +CONSUELO + +No. [_Opening her eyes_] I forget everything about it. [_Looks around +the room._] HE, do you see what a poster they made for my benefit +performance? It's Father's idea. The Baron liked it. [_HE laughs. +Silence._] + +HE + +[_Slowly_] Consuelo, my Queen! Don't go to the Baron to-day. + +CONSUELO + +Why? [_After a silence._] How fresh you are, HE. + +HE + +[_Lowering his head, slowly_]: I don't want it. + +CONSUELO + +[_Getting up_]: What? You don't want it? + +HE + +[_Bowing his head still lower_]: I do not want you to marry the Baron +[_Imploring._] I ... I shall not allow it ... I beg you! + +CONSUELO + +Whom, then, would you ask me to marry? You, perhaps, you fool? [_With a +rancorous laugh_] Are you crazy, my darling? "I shall not allow." HE! +HE will not allow me! But it is unbearable! What business is it of +yours? [_Walking up and down the room, looks over her shoulder at HE, +with anger._] Some fool clown, whom they can kick out of here any +minute. You make me sick with your stupid tales. Or you like slaps so +much. Fool, you couldn't invent anything better than a slap! + +HE + +[_Without lifting his head_]: Forgive me, my Queen. + +CONSUELO + +He is glad when they laugh at him. Some god! No, I shan't forgive. I +know you. [_Makes same gesture as_ MANCINI.] You have something there! +Laughs ... so nicely ... plays, plays, and then suddenly--hop! _Obey +him!_ No, darling, I am not that kind! Carry my train, that is your +business--fool! + +HE + +I shall carry your train, my Queen. Forgive me. Give me back the image +of my beautiful, piteous goddess. + +CONSUELO + +[_Quieting down_]: You're playing again? + +HE + +I am. + +CONSUELO + +[_Laughing_]: You see! [_Sits down._] Foolish HE. + +HE + +I see everything, my Queen. I see how beautiful you are, and how low +under your feet your poor court fool is lying. Somewhere in the abyss +his little bells are ringing. He kneels before you and prays; forgive +and pity him, my divine one. He was too impudent; he played so +cheerfully that he went too far and lost his tiny little mind, the last +bit of understanding he had saved up. Forgive me! + +CONSUELO + +All right. I forgive you. [_Laughs._] And now will you allow me to marry +the Baron? + +HE + +[_Also laughing_]: And nevertheless I will not allow it. But what does a +queen care about the permission of her enamoured fool? + +CONSUELO + +Get up. You are forgiven. And do you know why? You think because of your +words? You are a cunning beast, HE! No, because of the _sandwiches_. +That's why. You were so lovely, you panted so when you brought them. +Poor darling HE. From to-morrow you may be at my feet again. And as soon +as I whistle, "tuwhooo"---- + +HE + +I shall instantly lie down at thy feet, Consuelo. It is settled! But all +my little bells fell off to-day and---- + + [_Bezano appears, confused._] + +CONSUELO + +Alfred! You came for me? + +BEZANO + +Yes. Will you work some more, Consuelo? + +CONSUELO + +Certainly. As much as you want. But I thought, Alfred, you were mad at +me? I shan't dawdle any more. + +BEZANO + +No. You didn't dawdle. Don't be offended, because I yelled so much. You +know when one has to teach, and---- + +CONSUELO + +My goodness, do you think I don't understand? You are too nice, +unbearably nice, to like teaching such a fool as me. Do you think I +don't understand? Come on! + +BEZANO + +Come on! Hello, HE! I haven't seen you yet to-day. How are you? + +HE + +How are you, Bezano? Wait, wait a minute--stay here a minute, both of +you--that way. Yes! + + [CONSUELO _and_ BEZANO _stand side by side, the jockey scowling_, + CONSUELO _laughing and flushing_.] + +CONSUELO + +Like Adam and Eve? How foolish you are! Terribly. [_She runs away._] I +shall only change my slippers, Alfred. + +HE + +Consuelo! And how about Father and the Baron? They will come soon, to +take you with them. + +CONSUELO + +Let them come. They can wait. Not very important people. [_Runs away._ +BEZANO _hesitatingly follows her_.] + +HE + +Stay here for a while, Bezano. Sit down. + +BEZANO + +What more do you want? I have no time for your nonsense. + +HE + +You can remain standing if you want. Bezano--you love her? [_Silence._] + +BEZANO + +I shall allow nobody to interfere with my affairs. You allow yourself +too many liberties, HE. I don't know you. You came from the street, and +why should I trust you? + +HE + +But you know the Baron? Listen. It is painful for me to pronounce these +words: she loves you. Save her from the spider! Or are you blind, and +don't see the web, which is woven in every dark corner. Get out of the +vicious circle in which you are turning around, like a blind man. Take +her away, steal her, do what you want ... kill her even, and take her to +the heavens or to the devil! But don't give her to this man! He is a +defiler of love. And if you are timid, if you are afraid to lift your +hand against her--kill the Baron! Kill! + +BEZANO + +[_With a smile_]: And who will kill the others, to come? + +HE + +She loves you. + +BEZANO + +Did she tell you that herself? + +HE + +What a petty, what a stupid, what a human pride! But _you_ are a little +god! A god, youth! Why don't you want to believe me? Or does the +street, from which I have come, bother you? But look, look yourself. +Look in my eyes, do such eyes lie? Yes, my face is ugly, I make faces +and grimaces, I am surrounded by laughter, but don't you see the god +behind all this, a god, like you? Look, look at me! [BEZANO _bursts out +laughing_.] What are you laughing at, youth? + +BEZANO + +You look now as you did that evening in the ring. You remember? When you +were a great man, and they sent for you from the Academy, and +suddenly--Hup! HE Who Gets Slapped! + +HE + +[_Laughing the same way_]: Yes, yes, you are right, Bezano. There is a +resemblance. [_With a strained expression, taking a pose_] "It seems to +me they sent for me from the Academy!" + +BEZANO + +[_Displeased_]: But I don't like this play. You can present your face +for slaps if you want to, but don't dare to expose mine. [_Turns to +go._] + +HE + +Bezano! + +BEZANO + +[_Turning round_]: And never let me hear any more about Consuelo, and +don't dare to tell me again that I am a god! It is disgusting. + + [BEZANO _goes out angrily, striking his boot with his whip. HE is + alone. Wrathfully, with a tortured expression, he makes a step + towards the jockey, then stops, with soundless laughter, his head + thrown backwards. The_ BARON _and_ MANCINI _find him in this + position, when they enter_.] + +MANCINI + +[_Laughing_]: What a cheerful chap you are, HE! You laugh when you are +alone. [_HE laughs aloud._] Stop it fool! How can you stand it? + +HE + +[_Bowing low, with a large gesture_]: How do you do, Baron? My humblest +respects to you, Count. I beg your pardon, Count, but you found the +clown at work. These are, so to speak, Baron, his every-day pleasures. + +MANCINI + +[_Lifting his eyebrows_]: Tsss. But you are a clever man, HE. I shall +ask Papa Briquet to give you a benefit performance. Shall I, HE? + +HE + +Please do me the favour, Count. + +MANCINI + +Don't overdo. Be more simple, HE. [_Laughs._] But how many slaps will +you get at your benefit performance, when even on weekdays they ring you +like a gong! A funny profession, isn't it, Baron? + +BARON + +Very strange. But where is the Countess? + +MANCINI + +Yes, yes. I shall go for her at once. Dear child, she is so absorbed in +her benefit performance and her work. They call this jumping _work_, +Baron. + +BARON + +I can wait a little. [_Sits down, with his silk hat on his head._] + +MANCINI + +But why? I shall hurry her up. I shall be back at once. And you, HE, be +a nice host, and entertain our dear guest. You will not be bored in his +company, Baron. + + [_He goes out. HE strides about the stage, smiling and glancing + from time to time at the_ BARON. _The latter sits with his legs + spread apart and his chin on the top of his cane. The silk hat + remains on his head. He is silent._] + +HE + +In what way would you like me to entertain you, Baron? + +BARON + +In no way! I don't like clowns. + +HE + +Nor I Barons. + + [_Silence. HE puts on his derby hat, takes a chair with a large + gesture, and puts it down heavily, in front of the_ BARON. _HE sits + astride it, imitating the pose of the_ BARON, _and looks him in the + eyes. Silence._] + +HE + +Can you be silent very long? + +BARON + +Very long. + +HE + +[_Taps on the floor with his foot_]: And can you wait very long? + +BARON + +Very long. + +HE + +Until you get it? + +BARON + +Until I get it. And you? + +HE + +I too. + + [_Both look at each other, silently, their heads close together. + From the ring one hears the strains of the Tango._] + +CURTAIN + + + + +ACT IV + + +_Music in the ring. More disorder in the room than usual. All kinds of +actors' costumes hanging on pegs and lying in the corners. On the table +a bouquet of fiery-red roses, put there by some careless hand. At the +entrance, near the arch, three bareback riders are smoking and +chattering; they are all minor actors. All part their hair the same way; +two wear small moustaches; the third one is clean-shaven with a face +like a bull-dog._ + +THE CLEAN-SHAVEN ONE + +Go on, Henry! Ten thousand francs! It's too much even for the Baron. + +THE SECOND + +How much are roses now? + +THE SHAVEN + +I don't know. In winter they are certainly more expensive, but still +Henry talks nonsense. Ten thousand! + +THE SECOND + +The Baron has his own hothouse. They don't cost him anything. + +HENRY + +[_Throwing away hit cigar, which has burned the tips of his fingers_]: +No, Grab, you're silly. There's a whole car-load full! One can smell the +roses a mile away. They're to cover the entire arena. + +THE SHAVEN + +Only the ring. + +HENRY + +It's all the same. In order to cover the ring, you must have thousands +and thousands of roses. You'll see what it looks like, when they've +covered everything like a carpet. He ordered them to make it like a +carpet! Do you see, Grab? + +THE SECOND + +What a Baron's craze! Isn't it time yet? + +HENRY + +No, we have time enough. I rather like it: a fiery-red tango on a +fiery-red cover of winter roses! + +THE SHAVEN + +Consuelo will be galloping on roses. And Bezano? + +THE SECOND + +And Bezano on thorns. [_Smiles._] + +THE SHAVEN + +That youngster has no self-respect. I'd have refused. + +HENRY + +But it is his job. He's got to do it. [_Laughs._] Talk to him about +self-respect. He's as angry and proud as a little Satan. + +THE SECOND + +No, you may say what you like, it's an excellent benefit performance. +It's a joy to look at the crowd. They're so excited. + +HENRY + +Tss! [_All throw away their cigars and cigarettes, like school boys who +are caught, and make way for_ ZINIDA, _who enters with_ HE.] + +ZINIDA + +What are you doing here, gentlemen? Your place is at the entrance. + +HENRY + +[_With a respectful smile_]: We are here just for a minute, Madame +Zinida. We are going. What a successful evening! And what a glory for +Papa Briquet! + +ZINIDA + +Yes. Go, and please don't leave your places. [_They go._ ZINIDA _pulls a +drawer out of the desk, and puts in some papers. She is in her lion +tamer's costume._] HE, what were you doing near my lions? You frightened +me. + +HE + +Why, Duchess, I merely wanted to hear what the beasts were saying about +the benefit performance. They are pacing in their cages, and growling. + +ZINIDA + +The music makes them nervous. Sit down, HE. An excellent evening, and I +am so glad that Consuelo is leaving us. Have you heard about the Baron's +roses. + +HE + +Everybody is talking about them. The Hymeneal roses! + +ZINIDA + +Here are some, too. [_Pushes away the bouquet._] You find them +everywhere. Yes, I am glad. She is superfluous here, and disturbs our +work. It is a misfortune for a cast to have in it such a beautiful and +such an ... accessible girl. + +HE + +But it is an honest marriage, Duchess, is it not? + +ZINIDA + +I don't care what it is. + +HE + +Spiders, too need an improvement in their breed! Can't you imagine, +Zinida, what charming little spiders this couple will create! They will +have the face of their mother, Consuelo, and the stomach of their +father, the Baron, and thus could be an ornament for any circus-ring. + +ZINIDA + +You are malicious to-day, HE. You are morose. + +HE + +I laugh. + +ZINIDA + +You do, but without joy. Why are you without make-up? + +HE + +I am in the third act. I have time. And how does Bezano feel about this +evening. Is he glad? + +ZINIDA + +I didn't talk to Bezano. You know what I think, my friend? You, too, are +superfluous here. [_Silence._] + +HE + +How do you want me to take that, Zinida? + +ZINIDA + +Just as I said. In fact, Consuelo sold herself for nothing. What is the +Baron worth, with his poor millions? People say that you are clever, too +clever perhaps; tell me then, for how much could one buy me? + +HE + +[_Looking as if he were pricing her_]: Only for a crown. + +ZINIDA + +A baron's crown? + +HE + +No, a royal one. + +ZINIDA + +You are far from being stupid. And you guessed that Consuelo is not +Mancini's daughter? + +HE + +[_Startled_]: What! And she knows it? + +ZINIDA + +Hardly. Why should she know it? Yes, she is a girl from Corsica whose +parents are unknown. He preferred to use her for business rather +than.... But according to the law, she is his daughter, Countess +Veronica Mancini. + +HE + +It is nice, to have everything done according to law, isn't it, Zinida? +But it is curious there is more blue blood in her than in this Mancini. +One would say that it was she who found him on the street, and made him +a count and her father. Count Mancini! [_Laughs._] + +ZINIDA + +Yes, you are gloomy, HE. I changed my mind, you'd better stay. + +HE + +Will I not be superfluous? + +ZINIDA + +When she is gone, you will not. Oh! You don't know yet, how nice it is +to be with us. What a rest for the body and mind. I understand you. I am +clever, too. Like you, I brought with me from out there my inclination +for chains, and for a long time I chained myself to whatever I could, in +order to feel firm. + +HE + +Bezano? + +ZINIDA + +Bezano and others; there were many, there will be many more. My red +lion, with whom I am desperately in love, is still more terrible than +Bezano. But it is all nonsense; old habits, which we are sorry to let +go, like old servants who steal things. Leave Consuelo alone. She has +her own way. + +HE + +Automobiles and diamonds? + +ZINIDA + +When did you see a beauty clad in simple cotton? If this one does not +buy her, another will. They buy off everything that is beautiful. Yes, I +know. For the first ten years she will be a sad beauty, who will attract +the eyes of the poor man on the side-walk: afterward she will begin to +paint a little around her eyes and smile, and then will take---- + +HE + +Her _chauffeur_ or butler as a lover? You're not guessing badly, Zinida! + +ZINIDA + +Am I not right? I don't want to intrude on your confidence, but to-day I +am sorry for you, HE. What can you do against Fate? Don't be offended, +my friend, by the words of a woman. I like you; you are not beautiful, +nor young, nor rich, and your place is---- + +HE + +On the side-walk, from which one looks at the beauties. [_Laughs._] And +if I don't want to? + +ZINIDA + +What does it matter, your "want" or "don't want"? I am sorry for you, my +poor friend, but if you are a strong man, and I think you are, then +there is only one way for you. To forget. + +HE + +You think that that's being strong? And you are saying this, you, Queen +Zinida, who want to awaken the feeling of love, even in the heart of a +lion? For one second of an illusory possession, you are ready to pay +with your life, and still you advise me to forget! Give me your strong +hand, my beautiful lady; see how much strength there is in this +pressure, and don't pity me. + +[_Enter_ BRIQUET _and_ MANCINI. _The latter it reserved, and +self-consciously imposing. He has a new suit, but the same cane, and the +same noiseless smile of a satyr._] + +ZINIDA + +[_Whispering_]: Will you stay? + +HE + +Yes. I shan't go away. + +MANCINI + +How are you, my dear? But you are dazzling, my dear! I swear you are +marvellous! Your lion would be an ass, if he did not kiss your hand, as +I do.... [_Kisses her hand._] + +ZINIDA + +May I congratulate you, Count? + +MANCINI + +Yes, merci. [_To_ HE]: How are you, my dear? + +HE + +Good evening, Count! + +BRIQUET + +Zinida, the Count wants to pay immediately for the breach of contract +with Consuelo ... the Countess's contract. Don't you remember, Mother, +how much it is? + +ZINIDA + +I'll look it up, Papa. + +MANCINI + +Yes, please. Consuelo will not return here any more. We leave to-morrow. + +[ZINIDA _and_ BRIQUET _search among the papers_. HE _takes_ MANCINI +_roughly by the elbow, and draws him aside._] + +HE + +[_In a low voice_]: How are your girls, Mancini? + +MANCINI + +What girls? What is this, stupidity or blackmail? Look out, sir, be +careful, the policeman is not far. + +HE + +You are much too severe, Mancini. I assumed, that since we are +_tete-a-tete_.... + +MANCINI + +But tell me, what kind of _tete-a-tete_ is possible, between a clown and +me? [_Laughs._] You are stupid, HE. You should say what you want, and +not ask questions! + +BRIQUET + +Three thousand francs, Count. + +MANCINI + +Is that all? For Consuelo? All right. I'll tell the Baron. + +ZINIDA + +You took---- + +BRIQUET + +Don't, Mother, don't. + +ZINIDA + +Count, you drew in advance, I have it written down, eighty francs and +twenty centimes. Will you pay this money, too? + +MANCINI + +Certainly, certainly. You will get three thousand and one hundred. +[_Laughing_] Twenty centimes! I never thought I could be so accurate. +[_Seriously_] Yes, my friends. My daughter Consuelo--the Countess--and +the Baron, expressed their desire to bid farewell to the whole cast. + +HE + +The Baron, too? + +MANCINI + +Yes, Auguste, too. They want to do it during the intermission. +Therefore, I ask you to gather here ... the more decent ones ... but +please don't make it too crowded! HE, will you, sir, be kind enough to +run into the buffet and tell them to bring right away a basket of +champagne, bottles and glasses--you understand? + +HE + +Yes, Count. + +MANCINI + +Wait a minute, what's the hurry--what is this, a new costume? You are +all burning like the devils in hell! + +HE + +You do me too much honour, Count, I am not a devil. I am merely a poor +sinner who the devils are frying a little. [_He goes out, bowing like a +clown._] + +MANCINI + +A gifted chap, but too cunning. + +BRIQUET + +It's the Tango colour, in honour of your daughter, Count. He needs it +for a new stunt, which he doesn't want to tell in advance. Don't you +want to sit down, Count? + +MANCINI + +Auguste is waiting for me, but ... it's all right. [_Takes a seat._] +Nevertheless I am sorry to leave you, my friend. High society, +certainly, prerogatives of the title, castles of exalted noblemen, but +where could I find such freedom, and ... such simplicity.... And +besides, these announcements, these burning posters, which take your +breath in the morning, they had something which summoned, which +encouraged.... _There_, my friends, I shall become old. + +BRIQUET + +But pleasures of a higher kind, Count. Why are you silent, Zinida? + +ZINIDA + +I'm listening. + +MANCINI + +By the way, my dear, how do you like my suit? You have wonderful taste. +[_Spreads out his lace tie and lace cuffs._] + +ZINIDA + +I like it. You look like a nobleman of the courts of long ago. + +MANCINI + +Yes? But don't you think it is too conspicuous? Who wears lace and satin +now? This dirty democracy will soon make us dress ourselves in sack +cloth. [_With a sigh_] Auguste told me that this jabot was out of place. + +ZINIDA + +The Baron is too severe. + +MANCINI + +Yes, but it seems to me he is right. I am a little infected with your +fancy. [HE _returns. Two waiters follow him, carrying a basket of +champagne and glasses. They prepare everything on the table._] + +MANCINI + +Ah! _merci_, HE. But, please, none of this bourgeoise exploding of +corks; be slower and more modest. Send the bill to Baron Regnard. Then, +we will be here, Briquet. I must go. + +ZINIDA + +[_Looks at her watch_]: Yes, the act is going to end soon. + +MANCINI + +Heavens! [_Disappears in a hurry._] + +BRIQUET + +The devil take him! + +ZINIDA + +[_Pointing to the waiter_]: Not so loud, Louis! + +BRIQUET + +No! The devil take him! And why couldn't you help me, Mother? You left +me alone to talk to him. High Society! High pleasures! Swindler! [HE +_and_ ZINIDA _laugh. The waiters smile._] + +BRIQUET + +[_To the waiters_]: What are you laughing about? You can go. We will +help ourselves. Whiskey and soda, Jean! [_In a low and angry voice_] +Champagne! [_Enter_ JACKSON, _in his clown's costume._] + +JACKSON + +A whiskey and soda for me, too! At least I hear some laughter here. +Those idiots have simply forgotten how to laugh. My sun was rising and +setting and crawling all over the ring---- and not a smile! Look at my +bottom, shines like a mirror! [_Turns around quickly._] Beg your pardon, +Zinida. And you don't look badly to-night, HE. Look out for your cheeks. +I hate beauties. + +BRIQUET + +A benefit performance crowd! + +JACKSON + +[_Looking in a hand mirror, correcting his make-up_]: In the orchestra +there are some Barons and Egyptian mummies. I got a belly-ache from +fright. I am an honest clown. I can't stand it when they look at me as +if I had stolen a handkerchief. HE, please give them a good many slaps +to-night. + +HE + +Be quiet, Jim. I shall avenge you. [_HE goes out._] + +ZINIDA + +And how is Bezano? + +JACKSON + +[_Grumbling_]: Bezano! A crazy success. But he is crazy, he will break +his neck to-morrow. Why does he run such a risk? Or perhaps he has +wings, like a god? Devil take it. It's disgusting to look at him. It's +not work any more. + +BRIQUET + +You are right, Jim! It is not work any more. To your health, old +comrade, Jackson. + +JACKSON + +To yours, Louis. + +BRIQUET + +It is not work any more, since these Barons came here! Do you hear? They +are laughing. But I am indignant, I am indignant, Jim! What do they want +here, these Barons? Let them steal hens in other hen roosts, and leave +us in peace. Ah! Had I been Secretary of the Interior, I should have +made an iron fence between us and those people. + +JACKSON + +I am very sorry myself for our dear little Consuelo. I don't know why, +but it seems to me that we all look to-day more like swindlers than +honest artists. Don't you think so, Zinida? + +ZINIDA + +Everybody does what he wants. It's Consuelo's business and her father's. + +BRIQUET + +No, Mother, that's not true! Not everybody does what he wants, but it +turns out this way ... devil knows why. + +_[Enter_ ANGELICA _and_ THOMAS, _an athlete._] + +ANGELICA + +Is this where we're going to have champagne? + +BRIQUET + +And you're glad already? + +THOMAS + +There it is! Oh, oh, what a lot! + +ANGELICA + +The Count told me to come here. I met him. + +BRIQUET + +[_Angrily_]: All right, if he said so, but there is no reason to enjoy +it. Look out, Angelica, you will have a bad end. I see you through and +through. How does she work, Thomas? + +THOMAS + +Very well. + +ANGELICA + +[_In a low voice_]: How angry Papa Briquet is to-night. + +[Enter HE, TILLY, POLLY, _and other actors, all in their costumes._] + +TILLY + +Do you really want champagne? + +POLLY + +I don't want it at all. Do you, Tilly? + +TILLY + +And I don't want it. HE, did you see how the Count walks? [_Walks, +imitating_ MANCINI. _Laughter._] + +POLLY + +Let me be the Baron. Take my arm. Look out, ass, you stepped on my +beloved family tree! + +ANGELICA + +It'll soon be finished. Consuelo is galloping now. It is her waltz. What +a success she is having! + +[_All listen to the waltz._ TILLY _and_ POLLY _are singing it softly._] + +ANGELICA + +She is so beautiful! Are those her flowers? + +[_They listen. Suddenly, a crash as if a broken wall were tumbling down: +applause, shouting, screaming; much motion on the stage. The actors are +pouring champagne. New ones come in, talking and laughing. When they +notice the director and the champagne, they become quiet and modest._] + +VOICES + +They're coming! What a success! I should say, since all the orchestra +seats.... And what will it be when they see the Tango? Don't be envious, +Alphonse. + +BRIQUET + +Silence! Not so much noise, please! Zinida, look here, don't be so +quiet! High society! + +[_Enter_ CONSUELO, _on the arm of the_ BARON _who is stiff and erect. +She is happy._ MANCINI, _serious and happy. Behind them, riders, actors, +actresses. The_ BARON _has in his button-hole a fiery-red rose. All +applaud and cry: "Bravo, bravo!"_] + +CONSUELO + +Friends ... my dears ... Father, I can't ... [_Throws herself into_ +MANCINI'S _arms, and hides her face on his shoulders._ MANCINI _looks +with a smile over her head at the_ BARON. BARON _smiles slightly, but +remains earnest and motionless. A new burst of applause._] + +BRIQUET + +Enough, children! Enough! + +MANCINI + +Calm yourself, calm yourself, my child. How they all love you! [_Taking +a step forward_] Ladies and gentlemen, Baron Regnard did me the honour +yesterday, to ask for the hand of my daughter, the Countess Veronica, +whom you knew under the name of Consuelo. Please take your glasses. + +CONSUELO + +No, I am still Consuelo, to-night, and I shall always be Consuelo! +Zinida, dear! [_Falls on the neck of_ ZINIDA. _Fresh applause._] + +BRIQUET + +Stop it! Silence! Take your glasses. What are you standing here for? If +you came, then take the glasses. + +TILLY + +[_Trembling_]: They are frightened. You take yours first, Papa, and we +will follow. + +[_They take the glasses._ CONSUELO _is near the_ BARON, _holding the +sleeve of his dress coat with her left hand. In her right hand, she has +a glass of champagne, which spills over._] + +BARON + +You are spilling your wine, Consuelo. + +CONSUELO + +Ah! It is nothing! I am frightened, too. Are you, Father? + +MANCINI + +Silly child. [_An awkward silence._] + +BRIQUET + +[_With a step forward_]: Countess! As the director of the circus, who +was happy enough ... to witness ... many times ... your successes.... + +CONSUELO + +I do not _like_ this, Papa Briquet! I am Consuelo. What do you want to +do with me? I shall cry. I don't want this "Countess." Give me a kiss, +Briquet! + +BRIQUET + +Ah, Consuelo! Books have killed you. + +[_Kisses her with tears. Laughter, applause. The clowns cluck like hens, +bark, and express their emotions in many other ways. The motley crowd of +clowns, which is ready for the pantomime, becomes more and more lively. +The_ BARON _is motionless, there is a wide space around him; the people +touch glasses with him in a hurry, and go off to one side. With_ +CONSUELO _they clink willingly and cheerfully. She kisses the women._] + +JACKSON + +Silence! Consuelo, from to-day on, I extinguish my sun. Let the dark +night come after you leave us. You were a nice comrade and worker, we +all loved you and will love the traces of your little feet on the sand. +Nothing remains to us! + +CONSUELO + +You are so good, so good, Jim. So good that there is no one better. And +your sun is better than all the other suns. I laughed so much at it. +Alfred, dear, why don't you come? I was looking for you. + +BEZANO + +My congratulations, Countess. + +CONSUELO + +Alfred, I am Consuelo! + +BEZANO + +When you are on horseback; but here--I congratulate you, Countess. [_He +passes, only slightly touching_ CONSUELO'S _glass_. CONSUELO _still +holds it_. MANCINI _looks at the_ BARON _with a smile_. _The latter is +motionless._] + +BRIQUET + +Nonsense, Bezano. You are making Consuelo unhappy. She is a good +comrade. + +CONSUELO + +No, it's all right. + +ANGELICA + +You'll dance the Tango with her to-night, so how is she a countess? + +TILLY + +May I clink glasses with you, Consuelo? You know Polly has died of grief +already, and I am going to die. I have such a weak stomach. + + [_Laughter_; BARON _shows slight displeasure_. _General motion._] + +MANCINI + +Enough, enough! The intermission is over. + +CONSUELO + +Already? It's so nice here. + +BRIQUET + +I shall prolong it. They can wait. Tell them, Thomas. + +MANCINI + +Auguste, the musicians of the orchestra, too, ask permission to +congratulate you and Consuelo. Do you ...? + +BARON + +Certainly, certainly. + + [_Enter crowd of musicians. The conductor, an old Italian, lifts + his glass solemnly and without looking at the_ BARON.] + +THE CONDUCTOR + +Consuelo! They call you Countess here, but for me you were and are +_Consuelo_. + +CONSUELO + +Certainly! + +THE CONDUCTOR + +Consuelo! My violins and bassoons, my trumpets and drums, all are +drinking your health. Be happy, dear child, as you were happy here. And +we shall conserve for ever in our hearts the fair memory of our +light-winged fairy, who guided our bows so long. I have finished! Give +my love to our beautiful Italy, Consuelo. + + [_Applause, compliments. The musicians one after another clink + glasses and go out into the corridor._ CONSUELO _is almost + crying_.] + +MANCINI + +Don't be so sensitive, my child, it is indecent. Had I known that you +would respond this way to this comedy--Auguste, look how touched this +little heart is! + +BARON + +Calm yourself, Consuelo. + +CONSUELO + +It is all right. Ah, Father, listen! + + [_The musicians are playing the Tango in the corridor. + Exclamations._] + +MANCINI + +You see. It is for you. + +CONSUELO + +They are so nice. My Tango! I want to dance. Who is going to dance with +me? [_Looks around, seeking_ BEZANO, _who turns away sadly_.] Who, +then? + +VOICES + +Baron! Let the Baron dance! Baron! + +BARON + +All right. [_Takes_ CONSUELO'S _arm, and stands in the centre of a +circle which is formed_.] I do not know how to dance the Tango, but I +shall hold tight. Dance, Consuelo. [_He stands with legs spread, heavily +and awkwardly, like an iron-moulded man, holding_ CONSUELO'S _arm firmly +and seriously_.] + +MANCINI + +[_Applauding_]: Bravo! Bravo! [CONSUELO _makes a few restless movements, +and pulls her arm away_.] + +CONSUELO + +No, I can't this way. How stupid! Let me go! [_She goes to_ ZINIDA _and +embraces her, as if hiding herself_. _The music still plays. The_ BARON +_goes off quietly to the side_. _There is an unfriendly silence among +the cast. They shrug their shoulders._] + +MANCINI + +[_Alone_]: Bravo! Bravo! It is charming, it is exquisite! + +JACKSON + +Not entirely, Count. + + [TILLY _and_ POLLY _imitate the_ BARON _and_ CONSUELO _without + moving from their places_.] + +TILLY + +[_Shrieking_]: Let me go! + +POLLY + +No, I'll not. Dance! + + [_The music stops abruptly. General, too loud laughter; the clowns + bark and roar. Papa_ BRIQUET _gesticulates, in order to + re-establish silence_. _The_ BARON _is apparently as indifferent as + before_.] + +MANCINI + +Really these vagabonds are becoming too impertinent. [_Shrugging his +shoulders_] It smells of the stable. You cannot help it, Auguste! + +BARON + +Don't be upset, Count. + +HE + +[_Holding his glass, approaches the_ BARON]: Baron. Will you permit me +to make a toast? + +BARON + +Make it. + +HE + +To your dance! [_Slight laughter in the crowd._] + +BARON + +I don't dance! + +HE + +Then another one, Baron. Let us drink to those who know how to wait +longer, until they get it. + +BARON + +I do not accept any toasts which I do not understand. Say it more +simply. + +[_Voice of a woman: "Bravo, HE!_" _Slight laughter._ + + MANCINI _says something hastily to_ BRIQUET; _the latter spreads + his arms in gesture of helplessness_. JACKSON _takes HE by the + arm_.] + +JACKSON + +Beat it, HE! The Baron doesn't like jokes. + +HE + +But I want to drink with the Baron. What can be simpler? Simpler? Baron, +let us drink to the very small distance which will always remain 'twixt +the cup and the lip! [_Spills his wine, and laughs._] + + [_The_ BARON _turns his back on him, indifferently_. _The music + plays in the ring. The bell rings._] + +BRIQUET + +[_Relieved_]: There! To the ring, ladies and gentlemen, to the ring, to +the ring! + + [_The actresses run out. The crowd becomes smaller; laughter and + voices._] + +MANCINI + +[_Much excited, whispers to the_ BARON]: "Auguste, Auguste----" + +BRIQUET + +[_To_ ZINIDA]: Thank heaven they're beginning. Ah, Mother, I asked you +... but you want a scandal by all means, and you always---- + +ZINIDA + +Let me alone, Louis. + +[_HE approaches Consuelo, who is alone._] + +CONSUELO + +HE, deary, how are you? I thought you didn't want even to come near me. +[_In a low voice_] Did you notice Bezano? + +HE + +I was waiting for my turn, Queen. It was so difficult to get through the +crowd to approach you. + +CONSUELO + +Through the crowd? [_With a sad smile_] I am quite alone. What do you +want, Father? + +MANCINI + +Child! Auguste.... + +CONSUELO + +[_Pulling away her hand_]: Let me alone! I'll soon be---- Come +here, HE. What did you say to him? They all laughed. I couldn't +understand. What? + +HE + +I joked, Consuelo. + +CONSUELO + +Please don't, HE, don't make him angry; he is so terrible. Did you see +how he pressed my arm? I wanted to scream. [_With tears in her eyes_] He +hurt me! + +HE + +It's not too late yet. Refuse him. + +CONSUELO + +It is too late, HE. Don't talk about it. + +HE + +Do you want it? I will take you away from here. + +CONSUELO + +Where to? [_Laughs._] Ah, my dear little silly boy, where could you take +me to. All right, be quiet. How pale you are! You too, love me? Don't +HE, please don't! Why do they all love me? + +HE + +You are so beautiful! + +CONSUELO + +No, no. It's not true. They must not love me. I was still a little +cheerful, but when they began to speak ... so nicely ... and about +Italy ... and to bid farewell, as if I were dying, I thought I should +begin to cry. Don't talk, don't talk, but drink to ... my happiness. +[_With a sad smile_] To my happiness, HE. What are you doing? + +HE + +I am throwing away the glass from which you drank with the others. I +shall give you another one. Wait a minute. [_Goes to pour champagne._ +CONSUELO _walks about thoughtfully_. _Almost all are gone. Only the +principal figures are left._] + +MANCINI + +[_Coming to her_]: But it is really becoming indecent, Veronica. Auguste +is so nice, he is waiting for you, and you talk here with this clown. +Some stupid secrets. They're looking at you--it is becoming noticeable. +It is high time, Veronica, to get rid of these habits. + +CONSUELO + +[_Loudly_]: Let me alone, Father! I want to do so, and will do so. They +are all my friends. Do you hear? Let me alone! + +BARON + +Don't, Count. Please, Consuelo, talk to whomever you please and as much +as you want. Would you like a cigar, Count? Dear Briquet, please order +them to prolong the intermission a little more. + +BRIQUET + +With pleasure, Baron. The orchestra crowd can be a little angry. [_Goes, +and returns shortly._ _HE gives a glass to_ CONSUELO.] + +HE + +Here is your glass. To your happiness, to your freedom, Consuelo! + +CONSUELO + +And where is yours? We must touch our glasses. + +HE + +You leave half. + +CONSUELO + +Must I drink so much? HE, deary, I shall become drunk. I still have to +ride. + +HE + +No, you will not be drunk. Dear little girl, did you forget that I am +your magician? Be quiet and drink. I charmed the wine. My witchery is +in it. Drink, goddess. + +CONSUELO + +[_Lingeringly_]: What kind eyes you have. But why are you so pale? + +HE + +Because I love you. Look at my kind eyes and drink; give yourself up to +my charms, goddess! You shall fall asleep, and wake again, as before. Do +you remember? And you shall see your country, your sky.... + +CONSUELO + +[_Bringing the glass to her lips_]: I shall see all this; is that true? + +HE + +[_Growing paler_]: Yes! Awake, goddess, and remember the time when, +covered with snow-white sea-foam, thou didst emerge from the sky blue +waters. Remember heaven, and the low eastern wind, and the whisper of +the foam at thy marble feet.... + +CONSUELO + +[_Drinking_]: There! Look! Just a half! Take it. But what is the matter +with you? Are you laughing or crying? + +HE + +I am laughing and crying. + +MANCINI + +[_Pushing HE away, slightly_]: Enough, Countess, my patience is +exhausted. If Auguste is good enough to allow it, then I, your +Father--Your arm, Countess! Will you step aside, sir? + +CONSUELO + +I am tired. + +MANCINI + +You are not too tired to chatter and drink wine with a clown, and when +your duty calls you--Briquet! Tell them to ring the bell. It is time. + +CONSUELO + +I am tired, Father. + +ZINIDA + +Count, it is cruel. Don't you see how pale she has become? + +BARON + +What is the matter with you, dear little Consuelo? + +CONSUELO + +Nothing. + +ZINIDA + +She simply needs a rest, Baron. She hasn't sat down yet ... and so much +excitement.... Sit down here, dear child. Cover yourself and rest a +little. Men are so cruel! + +CONSUELO + +I still have to work. [_Closing her eyes._] And the roses, are they +ready? + +ZINIDA + +Ready, dear, ready. You will have such an extraordinary carpet. You will +gallop as if on air. Rest. + +POLLY + +Do you want some moosic? We will play you a song; do you want it? + +CONSUELO + +[_Smiling, eyes closed_]: Yes, I do. + + [_The clowns play a soft and naive song: tilly-polly, tilly-polly. + General silence._ _HE sits in the corner with his face turned + away._ JACKSON _watches him out of the corner of his eye, and + drinks wine, lazily_. _The_ BARON, _in his usual pose, wide and + heavily spread legs, looks at the pale face of_ CONSUELO, _with his + bulging motionless eyes_.] + +CONSUELO + +[_With a sudden cry_]: Ah! Pain! + +ZINIDA + +What is it, Consuelo? + +MANCINI + +My child! Are you sick! Calm yourself. + +BARON + +[_Growing pale_]: Wait a moment.... She was too much excited.... +Consuelo! + +CONSUELO + +[_Gets up, looking before her with wide-open eyes, as if she were +listening to something within herself_]: Ah! I feel pain. Here at the +heart. Father, what is it? I am afraid. What is it? My feet too ... I +can't stand.... [_Falls on divan, her eyes wide open._] + +MANCINI + +[_Running about_]: Bring a doctor! Heavens, it is terrible! Auguste, +Baron.... It never happened to her. It is nerves, nerves.... Calm +yourself, calm, child---- + +BRIQUET + +Bring a doctor! [_Somebody runs for a doctor._] + +JACKSON + +[_In a voice full of fear_]: HE, what is the matter with you? + +HE + +It is death, Consuelo, my little Queen. I killed you. You are dying. + + [_He cries, loudly and bitterly._ CONSUELO _with a scream, closes + her eyes, and becomes silent and quiet_. _All are in terrible + agitation. The_ BARON _is motionless, and sees only_ CONSUELO.] + +MANCINI + +[_Furious_]: You are lying, rascal! Damned clown! What did you give her? +You poisoned her! Murderer! Bring a doctor! + +HE + +A doctor will not help. You are dying, my little Queen. Consuelo! +Consuelo! + +[BEZANO _rushes in, cries_: "BRIQUET!" _becomes silent and looks with +horror at_ CONSUELO. _Somebody else comes in._ BRIQUET _is making +gestures for someone to close the door_.] + +CONSUELO + +[_In a dull and distant voice_]: You are joking, HE? Don't frighten me. +I am so frightened. Is that death? I don't want it. Ah, HE, my darling +HE, tell me that you are joking, I am afraid, my dear, golden HE! + + [_HE pushes away the_ BARON, _with a commanding gesture, and stands + in his place near_ CONSUELO. _The_ BARON _stands as before, seeing + only_ CONSUELO.] + +HE + +Yes, I am joking. Don't you hear how I laugh, Consuelo? They all laugh +at you here, my silly child. Don't laugh, Jim. She is tired, and wants +to sleep. How can you laugh, Jim! Sleep my dear, sleep my heart, sleep +my love. + +CONSUELO + +Yes, I have no more pain. Why did you joke that way, and frighten me? +Now I laugh at myself. You told me, didn't you, that I ... should ... +live ... eternally? + +HE + +Yes, Consuelo! You shall live eternally. Sleep. Be calm. [_Lifts up his +arms, as if straining with all his forces to lift her soul higher._] How +easy it is now! How much light, how many lights are burning about +you.... The light is blinding you. + +CONSUELO + +Yes, light.... Is that the ring? + +HE + +No, it is the sea and the sun ... what a sun! Don't you feel that you +are the foam, white sea-foam, and you are flying to the sun? You feel +light, you have no body, you are flying higher, my love! + +CONSUELO + +I am flying. I am the sea-foam, and this is the sun, it shines ... so +strong.... I feel well. + +[_She dies. Silence. HE stays a moment with lifted arms, then takes a +long look, lets his arms fall, and shakingly goes off to one side. He +stands still for a moment, then sits down, drops hit head on his hands, +and struggles lonesomely with the torpidity of coming death._] + +BRIQUET + +[_Slowly_]: She has fallen asleep, Mother? + +ZINIDA + +[_Dropping the dead hand_]: I am afraid not.... Step aside, Louis. +Baron, it is better for you to step aside. Baron! Do you hear me? +[_Weeps._] She is dead, Louis. + + [_The clowns and_ BRIQUET _are crying_. MANCINI _is overwhelmed_. + _The_ BARON _and HE are motionless, each in his place_.] + +JACKSON + +[_Drawing out a large prismatic clown's handkerchief to wipe away his +tears_]: Faded, like a flower. Sleep, little Consuelo! The only thing +that remains of you is the trace of your little feet on the sand. +[_Cries._] Ah, what did you do, what did you do, HE!... It would have +been better if you had never come to us. [_There it music in the +ring._] + +BRIQUET + +[_Gesticulating_]: The music! Stop the music! They are crazy there. What +a misfortune! + + [_Someone runs off._ ZINIDA _approaches the crying_ BEZANO _and + strokes his bowed, pomaded head_. _When he notices her, he catches + her hand and presses it to his eyes._ _The_ BARON _takes the rose + from his button-hole, tears off the petals, and drops it, grinding + it with his foot_. _A few pale faces peer through the door, the + same masquerade crowd._] + +ZINIDA + +[_Over the head of_ BEZANO]: Louis, we must call the police. + +MANCINI + +[_Awakening from his stupor, screams_]: The police! Call the police! +It's a murder! I am Count Mancini, I am Count Mancini! They will cut off +your head, murderer, damned clown, thief! I myself will kill you, +rascal! Ah, you! [_HE lifts his heavy head with difficulty._] + +HE + +They will cut off my head? And what more.... Your Excellency? + +BARON + +Sir! Listen, sir! I am going for the police. Stop it, sir. [_He suddenly +takes a step forward, and looking HE in the eyes, speaks in a hoarse +voice, with a cough, holding one hand at his throat._] I am the witness. +I saw. I am a witness. I saw how he put poison ... I---- + + [_He leaves the room, suddenly, with the same straight, heavy + steps. All move away from him, frightened. HE drops his head again. + From time to time a tremor shakes his body._] + +JACKSON + +[_Clasping his hands_]: Then it is all true? Poisoned! What a vile man +you are, HE. Is this the way to play? Now wait for the last slap of the +executioner! [_Makes the gesture around his neck, of the guillotine. +Tilly and Polly repeat the gesture._] + +ZINIDA + +Leave his soul alone, Jim. He was a man, and he loved. Happy Consuelo! + + [_A shot is heard in the corridor._ THOMAS, _frightened, runs in + and points to his head_.] + +THOMAS + +Baron ... Baron ... his head.... He shot himself?... + +BRIQUET + +[_Throwing his arms up_]: God! What is it? The Baron? What a calamity +for our circus. + +MANCINI + +The Baron? The Baron? No. What are you standing here for? Ah! + +BRIQUET + +Calm down, Count. Who would have believed it? Such a respectable ... +gentleman! + +HE + +[_Lifting his head with difficulty; he sees only dimly with his dulled +eyes_]: What more? What happened? + +THOMAS + +The Baron shot himself. Honestly. Straight here! He's lying out yonder. + +HE + +[_Thinking it over_]: Baron? [_Laughs._] Then the Baron burst? + +JACKSON + +Stop it! It's shameless. A man died and you.... What's the matter with +you, HE? + +HE + +[_Stands up, lifted to his feet by the last gleam of consciousness and +life, speaks strongly and indignantly_]: You loved her so much, Baron? +So much? My Consuelo? And you want to be ahead of me even _there_? No! I +am coming. We shall prove then whose she is to be for ever.... + + [_He catches at his throat, falls on his back. People run to him. + General agitation._] + +CURTAIN + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of He Who Gets Slapped, by +Leonid Nikolayevich Andreyev + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK HE WHO GETS SLAPPED *** + +***** This file should be named 37961.txt or 37961.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/3/7/9/6/37961/ + +Produced by Chuck Greif and the Online Distributed +Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This book was +produced from scanned images of public domain material +from the Google Print project.) + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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