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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Lucky Man, by Michel Baron
+
+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
+
+** This is a COPYRIGHTED Project Gutenberg eBook, Details Below **
+**     Please follow the copyright guidelines in this file.     **
+
+Title: The Lucky Man
+
+Author: Michel Baron
+
+Translator: Frank J. Morlock
+
+Posting Date: May 20, 2013 [EBook #4906]
+Release Date: September, 2003
+First Posted: March 23, 2002
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE LUCKY MAN ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Dagny and Frank J. Morlock
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+This Etext is for private use only. No republication for profit in
+print or other media may be made without the express consent of the
+Copyright Holder. The Copyright Holder is especially concerned about
+performance rights in any media on stage, cinema, or television, or
+audio or any other media, including readings for which an entrance fee
+or the like is charge. Permissions should be addressed to: Frank
+Morlock, 6006 Greenbelt Rd, #312, Greenbelt, MD 20770, USA or
+frankmorlock@msn.com. Other works by this author may be found at
+http://www.cadytech.com/dumas/personnage.asp?key=130
+
+
+
+                           THE LUCKY MAN
+
+                     a play by Frank J. Morlock
+              translated and adapted from the French of
+                            Michel Baron
+
+                               C 1991
+                        By Frank J. Morlock
+
+
+
+CHARACTERS:
+Cadwell (Moncade)
+Bendish (Pasquin)
+Laura (Lucinde)
+Olivia (Leonore)
+Arabella (Araminte)
+Selina (Cidalise)
+Worthy (Eraste)
+Slice (Ergaste)
+Mr. Martin (Martin)
+Jenny (Marton)
+Little Gentleman (Petite Chevalier)
+Three lackeys or pages
+
+
+
+The time, 1687.
+The place, a large room in Laura's mansion.
+
+
+
+ACT I. A large room in Olivia's house in London, circa 1687.
+
+Olivia:
+Yes, brother, your plan to marry Laura will not work unless someone
+opens her eyes about Cadwell.
+
+Jenny: (to Worthy)
+She loves him--you are not unaware of that. Laura is a widow, and I am
+certain that if she isn't brought to reason, and very quickly she
+won't delay marrying Cadwell. Count on what I tell you, I've been with
+her for several years and I know her.
+
+Olivia: (to Worthy)
+Aside from your little love interest what would her uncle Victor think
+if he found she were married without being forewarned? Wouldn't he
+have a right to complain of us after having taken care to lodge her
+with us so we could watch her conduct and report to him?
+
+Worthy:
+I see all this as you see it, but my love makes me say more than I
+should. I'm afraid of displeasing Laura and besides--
+
+Jenny: (interrupting him)
+And while we debate these matters Cadwell perhaps will marry Laura.
+
+Worthy: (to Olivia)
+What must I do then?
+
+Olivia:
+Fulfill your promise to Victor to warn him of all that is happening.
+Tell him of your passion for his niece. Omit nothing that might serve
+to render you happy.
+
+Worthy: I could never do it.
+
+Jenny:
+What! Such false delicacy--
+
+Worthy:
+But, sis, please--
+
+Olivia: (interrupting him)
+Brother, do you want to marry Laura or not?
+
+Worthy:
+Yes, I mean to do it!
+
+Olivia:
+Then do what you're told and we will take care of the rest.
+
+Worthy:
+My happiness is in your hands.
+
+Jenny:
+Get going then!
+
+(Exit Worthy looking very uncertain and ill at ease)
+
+Olivia:
+Jenny, what's Laura doing?
+
+Jenny:
+I've just finished dressing her. She'll soon be here.
+
+Olivia:
+We've got to find a way to expose this fine Mr. Cadwell.
+
+Jenny:
+Fine! He can be easily exposed and trapped. But I warn you, he'll get
+out of it again with a facility that will surprise you.
+
+Olivia:
+In spite of all that, Jenny, we must help my brother. You have
+promised me.
+
+Jenny:
+I haven't started badly and while Cadwell has been in the country
+these last two days believe you me, I've not forgotten to rouse
+Laura's suspiciosn.
+
+Olivia:
+Here she is--
+
+(Enter Laura)
+
+What's wrong with you then, madam? You look sad to me.
+
+Laura:
+I don't know, Olivia, I haven't slept.
+
+Olivia:
+The people who trouble your repose may not care to restore it to you.
+
+Laura: (defensively)
+You are very good, madam, to take part in something that regards me.
+
+Olivia:
+I admit to you that I would like to see you at ease.
+
+(Laura turns her head towards Cadwell's apartment)
+
+How little attention you pay to what I say to you! One must be more
+your friend than I am--
+
+Laura: (interrupting her)
+Not at all, Olivia. It seems to me I hear you--and if I were not to,
+should you be taking note of what I am doing?
+
+Olivia:
+Yes, I ought to, Laura. Don't I have an interest in everything that
+touches you? Do you imagine I can watch with pleasure as people abuse
+your good faith? Am I not aware of your unjust preference and ought I
+not to try to make you know the difference between hearts that are
+truly attached to you and those that----? Believe me, Laura, I know
+it, and you will know them as I do, those who love you for yourself,
+those who sacrifice--
+
+Laura: (to Jenny, turning again towards Cadwell's apartment)
+Jenny, have you seen--?
+
+Olivia:
+Madam, I see that I am embarrassing you--
+
+Laura:
+Olivia, I ask your pardon. I admit to you--
+
+Olivia: (interrupting her)
+I will leave you--
+
+Laura: (trying to hold her)
+Oh, no--please--
+
+(Exit Olivia)
+
+Jenny:
+It's clear that you have some distractions--
+
+Laura: (interrupting)
+Jenny!
+
+Jenny:
+Madam?
+
+Laura:
+Has he gone?
+
+Jenny:
+Who?
+
+Laura:
+Has he gone, I said?
+
+Jenny:
+Mr. Worthy?
+
+Laura:
+No.
+
+Jenny:
+Your lackey?
+
+Laura:
+Who spoke of my lackey? Cadwell--has he left?
+
+Jenny:
+I don't think he's awake yet.-- For some time, you've become so
+difficult to serve that it requires far greater penetration and
+patience than I can muster to stand you. Am I the mistress of your
+distractions and caprices? People don't say I am the reason you are
+not loved?
+
+Laura:
+Jenny?
+
+Jenny:
+Madam?
+
+Laura:
+Would you kindly shut up?!
+
+Jenny:
+No, madam! Really, it's not my fault if Cadwell has spent two days
+without seeing you. How badly infatuated you are with that little
+villain!
+
+Laura:
+Jenny!
+
+Jenny:
+Madam?
+
+Laura:
+Once more, would you kindly shut up?
+
+Jenny:
+No, madam. You've spoken to me and I am responding, and I will speak.
+
+Laura:
+Well! Jenny, I forbid you to shut up. I don't know what way to prevent
+you from speaking.
+
+Jenny:
+You know the doctor told me yesterday, in front of you, that I have a
+plethora of words so excessive, that if I don't say something-- You
+see, madam, silence is mortal to me.
+
+Laura: (with exasperation)
+Oh--speak, Jenny!
+
+Jenny:
+Ah, I feel better already. Tell me, madam, at the time you used to
+bore my head with exaggerating the happy state of widowhood, and how
+nothing in the world would induce you to remarry, had someone told you
+a man would come to propose to be your husband or lover (one doesn't
+make much distinction between the two these days) a restless man,
+always bizarre, always content with himself, never content with
+others--what would you have said?
+
+Laura:
+They would have violently offended me.
+
+Jenny:
+Oh, not offended. If that was so you would feel the outrage and the
+shame you receive.
+
+Laura:
+Me?
+
+Jenny:
+You, madam. Don't you love Cadwell? It is his portrait I have just
+drawn.
+
+Laura:
+How you paint him, Jenny!
+
+Jenny:
+As he is, madam, and as he ought to appear to you. While he wanted to
+please you and be loved by you, Cadwell was the finest man in the
+world. But as soon as he saw you would be faithful and loving, has he
+shown the least regard for you? What haven't you done for him? Think,
+madam, that you owe yourself something. You will pardon me for the
+liberty I am about to take. What would you think of an amiable young
+man, without wealth, lodging with you in the name of your uncle and
+who has never been in a condition to make expenditures but for your
+love of him. I wish that this plan to marry him can justify your
+conduct, but in delaying you permit people to think, to talk. And
+slowly but surely you're getting a reputation that doesn't do you much
+honor. I believe, I'd even swear that your passion hasn't gone beyond
+looks and words. But Laura, is everyone obliged to believe as I do?
+The world is not good. Passion has often led others farther than you
+have gone. Think of your reputation, and your peace of mind.
+
+(Laura rises and walks off)
+
+But madam where are you going?
+
+Laura:
+I don't know. Is Cadwell awake yet? Go to him--question him--his
+actions, his remarks, and report to me his every word.
+
+Jenny:
+Useless effort. I will always be misunderstood if I don't take
+constant pains. She's loyal and amorous--
+
+(Exit Laura)
+
+(Ender Bendish, from Cadwell's apartment)
+
+Jenny:
+Ah, there you are. What are you looking for?
+
+Bendish: (amiably)
+For a crazy lady, and I've found you. Now, I'm not looking any more as
+you see.
+
+Jenny:
+And aren't you a nasty impertinent fellow! Can I see your master?
+
+Bendish:
+No, it isn't wake up time for him yet. After having wasted all his
+time in an armchair at his toilet, he still has half an hour to sleep,
+my word.
+
+Cadwell: (calling from his room)
+Hey, hey, Bendish!
+
+Bendish:
+Sir.
+
+Jenny:
+I will return in a moment.
+
+Bendish:
+You don't like nudity, I can see that. Wait, help me, I beg you to
+carry the toilet here.
+
+Jenny:
+Why?
+
+Bendish:
+He says it reeks in his chamber.
+
+Jenny:
+I'm afraid it reeks in his hair more than in his room.
+
+(Bendish and Jenny take a toilet which is at the entrance to Cadwell's
+chamber and place it in a corner of the stage)
+
+Cadwell: (calling again from his room)
+Come on then, hey!
+
+Bendish:
+Coming! Yells like a devil. Don't people say he has a lot of business.
+
+(Exit Jenny to Laura's apartment)
+
+(Cadwell enters)
+
+Cadwell:
+Will you ever come?
+
+Bendish:
+I'm here.
+
+Cadwell:
+What time is it?
+
+Bendish:
+Doesn't matter.
+
+Cadwell:
+Scoundrel! Hasn't anyone come to ask for me?
+
+Bendish:
+Arabella's valet is waiting for you to wake up.
+
+Cadwell:
+Selina hasn't sent around?
+
+Bendish:
+I protect you from gossip. (drawing a letter and a watch from his
+jacket and presenting them to Cadwell) Here's a letter and a watch
+Selina sent you. Her lackey is going to come for a reply.
+
+Cadwell:
+Just put them there.
+
+Bendish:
+Aren't you going to read her letter?
+
+Cadwell:
+No. I know everything that will be in it.
+
+Bendish: (hearing a noise)
+Someone's knocking on the door. Shall I open it?
+
+Cadwell:
+See who it is!
+
+(Bendish goes to open)
+
+Ah, it's from Arabella.
+
+(Enter Arabella's Lackey)
+
+Lackey: (giving a clasp to Cadwell)
+Yes, sir. Here is what madam sends you. Will you send a reply?
+
+Cadwell:
+A reply? No.
+
+Lackey:
+Will you come to her, sir?
+
+Cadwell:
+No.
+
+Lackey:
+Tomorrow perhaps, sir?
+
+Cadwell:
+Er--one of these days, certainly. (to Bendish) Hey, Bendish--haven't
+you got a watch? (Bendish gives Cadwell the watch which Cadwell in
+turn presents to the lackey) Take this to your mistress. (to Bendish)
+Well now--finish dressing me.
+
+(The Lackey bows and exits)
+
+Bendish:
+And what will Selina say when she doesn't see her watch anymore?
+
+Cadwell:
+Didn't I tell you to dress me?
+
+Bendish:
+Eh! You don't intend to go out?
+
+Cadwell:
+I don't know what I will do. I'd like to spend the day here. No, I
+have to go out. (Thinking he hears a noise) Someone's knocking.
+Another lackey, I'll bet.
+
+Bendish:
+No, sir, nobody's knocking.-- Admit that it's a tiresome distinction
+to be a pretty fellow and not to be able to take a step without being
+run after by half the world. These are the perils one faces when one
+is made like you.
+
+Cadwell:
+There are times when I wish not to be as I am--when I'd give anything
+in the world to be like you.
+
+Bendish:
+I believe it.
+
+Cadwell:
+Perhaps you have some secret to make me disliked?
+
+Bendish:
+I do, sir. And it's very easy. You have only to continue to live the
+way you live and I guarantee you the hate and scorn of all mankind.
+(hearing knocking) They're knocking.
+
+Cadwell:
+Open.
+
+Bendish: (after having opened the door)
+It's from Selina.
+
+(Enter Selina's Lackey)
+
+Lackey:
+Sir, I've brought a letter and a watch.
+
+Cadwell:
+I know what it is. Here give her this. (giving the Lackey the clasp)
+
+(Exit Lackey)
+
+Bendish:
+He pipes with the flute and tunes with the drum.
+
+Cadwell:
+You seem quite astonished?
+
+Bendish:
+Me? No. I find this the best thing in the world. To love her today and
+betray her tomorrow. To take from one to give to the other. False
+confidences, slander, letters, sacrifices, flatteries, scandal--mere
+nothings! I am ready for everything. We won't be rich in the end but
+we'll have a good laugh, right sir?
+
+Cadwell:
+Ah, I'm delighted to see you reasonable.
+
+Bendish:
+Oh, sir, when a devil and a hermit live together, either the devil
+becomes a hermit or the hermit becomes a devil, I am absolutely
+convinced. Well, let's see who the unfortunate lady will be whose
+reputation you will ruin by some new perfidy? I can clearly see that
+your feelings are reserved for the Marquise.
+
+Cadwell:
+Which one?
+
+Bendish:
+Why the one you long ago swore to be faithful to.
+
+Cadwell:
+No. I no longer love her.
+
+Bendish:
+Your flames are not more vehement for this good lady to whom I carried
+your portrait that same day?
+
+Cadwell:
+Ah, fie! I cannot suffer her. She paints!
+
+Bendish:
+And the other one--her best friend?
+
+Cadwell:
+She has no wit.
+
+Bendish:
+And the lawyer's widow?
+
+Cadwell:
+She isn't rich.
+
+Bendish:
+And her sister?
+
+Cadwell:
+She cannot stand the odor of tobacco.
+
+Bendish:
+The odor of tobacco? My God! Of all these ladies there isn't one over
+whom you haven't troubled my head. "Ah, Bendish, tell me she's totally
+charming. I will love her all my life. I will suffer a thousand deaths
+rather than even think of changing--" I hear you, I look at her, I
+examine her, I conclude you are right. The next day, I am a fool. She
+lacks a delicate heart. Her manners are rude; she loves you too much;
+she is jealous, or too indifferent; she cannot stand the odor of
+tobacco. You always find some fault in them to justify YOUR
+inconstancy.
+
+Cadwell:
+What do you care?
+
+Bendish:
+Huh? What do I care? You don't consider the false oaths I've taken
+time and again.
+
+Cadwell:
+Why do you do that?
+
+Bendish:
+To reestablish your tottering reputation.
+
+Cadwell:
+Who placed it in your care?
+
+Bendish:
+Oh! Oh! This isn't bad. Who made it my duty, you say?
+
+Cadwell:
+Yes?
+
+Bendish:
+My honor?
+
+Cadwell:
+The honor of Bendish?
+
+Bendish:
+Assuredly. You wouldn't have me confirm your reputation as the most
+rascally, the most vain, the most faithless, the least amorous man in
+the world would you?
+
+Cadwell:
+It wouldn't please me at all.
+
+Bendish:
+Eh! What would you have me reply to such accusations? For you're
+seeing only the rough draft of the portrait they paint of you these
+days. What would you have me say?
+
+Cadwell:
+Nothing. Be quiet--and begin now.
+
+Bendish:
+Oh, sir, he who says nothing admits and I do not want anyone in the
+world to believe that I know your character, and besides, I plan to
+improve my business and yours, for you see everyone thinks of his own
+self interest. I need only be silent in response to the hundred
+questions put to me. "My poor Bendish," said one. "Here's a finger
+ring. I beg you tell me what your master's up to. What time does he
+come in? What's he like when he doesn't see me? Does he think of me?
+Does he speak to you of me? Is he restless, happy, sad, gay,
+melancholy, at ease, taciturn, giddy, chagrined, joking, wise, crazy?"
+What the devil do I know--a hundred thousand other things of a like
+nature.
+
+Cadwell:
+Well--what do you reply to all this?
+
+Bendish:
+According to the ring.
+
+Cadwell:
+Ah! I know quite well that with you my honor and yours march quite
+separately--according to your interest.-- Let's change the subject. Do
+you know what?
+
+Bendish:
+What?
+
+Cadwell:
+I believe I'm in love.
+
+Bendish:
+What! In love? Love in good faith?
+
+Cadwell:
+Yes, I tell you, in love.
+
+Bendish:
+But are you talking seriously?
+
+Cadwell:
+Must I give myself to the Devil for you to believe me?
+
+Bendish:
+And Laura?
+
+Cadwell:
+Oh! Laura, Laura! She's not aware of it.
+
+Bendish:
+Better for you. But tell me--how long will it last?
+
+Cadwell:
+You ask me too much. As if one could respond to that?
+
+Bendish:
+Do I know her?
+
+Cadwell:
+You know her.
+
+Bendish:
+You must have loved her for only a short time--for I've never heard
+you speak of her.
+
+Cadwell:
+Uh--a little while.
+
+Bendish:
+Is she pretty? Good! Plague on the fool for asking it. You will tell
+me shortly. Where does she reside? Far from here?
+
+Cadwell:
+No.
+
+Bendish:
+Better still. For in the beginning of these things it's devilishly
+tiresome to carry three letters back and forth day in day out.
+
+Cadwell:
+No trouble to do it. You can do it without going out.
+
+Bendish:
+How's that?
+
+Cadwell:
+She resides here.
+
+Bendish:
+Is it Olivia?
+
+Cadwell:
+You have said it.
+
+Bendish:
+Ah, sir--!
+
+Cadwell: (interrupting him)
+What's wrong with you?
+
+Bendish:
+Have you considered carefully what you are doing?
+
+Cadwell:
+Very carefully.
+
+Bendish:
+Olivia is a friend of Laura. In her sight. You cannot be thinking or
+you intend to lose everything. Eh, sir, where is the probity, the
+honor. Think, I tell you--
+
+Cadwell: (interrupting him)
+I love moralizing. It puts me to sleep.
+
+Bendish: (seeing Jenny appear)
+Hold, sir. Here's Jenny. Instruct her in all these plans.
+
+(Enter Jenny)
+
+Cadwell:
+Eh, good day, Jenny. What do you want?
+
+Jenny:
+To bid you good day, sir. I have to speak to you for madam.
+
+Cadwell: (to Bendish)
+My jerkin. (Cadwell dresses throughout this scene without listening to
+Jenny)
+
+Jenny:
+If I hadn't believed myself able to do you and madam a service, sir, I
+wouldn't undertake to speak to you. I flatter myself you will find
+what I have to say agreeable. You know I am in your interests. It
+pains me to see that you don't wish to be happy. What wouldn't I give
+to see you make serious reflections on your humor. As for me, I
+believe you too honest a man not to reproach yourself sometimes for
+your conduct towards Laura.
+
+Cadwell:
+My watch.
+
+Jenny:
+Dare one tell you that dividing your love between twenty coquettes
+makes you neither more attractive nor more happy. Your feelings should
+be faithful to the most loveable lady in the kingdom. Believe me, sir,
+and you will be believing an affectionate girl totally in your
+interests: Be happy while you can. There will come a time when the
+desire to be happy will only meet with despair. You will not always be
+attractive, and you won't always find a Laura to love you.
+
+Cadwell:
+My sword.
+
+Jenny:
+Fifty thousand francs and Laura! In these days a pretty sum. It ought
+to be very tempting to you--and I don't know anybody else who wouldn't
+be tempted by all that.
+
+Cadwell:
+My purse.
+
+Jenny:
+Truly sir, it's useless for you to say or do something, to put to use
+the merit you have, and you have great merit if one believes the
+consensus--I intend to become the greatest lady in Paris if I can get
+you to fifty thousand francs and Laura.
+
+Cadwell:
+My wig.
+
+Jenny:
+What I am saying to you must be very unpleasant for you not to reply
+one word to me.
+
+Cadwell:
+How do I look, Jenny?
+
+Jenny:
+Oh! Not very good at all. You enrage me.
+
+Cadwell:
+My gloves, my hat. (to Jenny) Goodbye, Jenny. (to Bendish as he
+leaves) Hey, Bendish.
+
+Bendish:
+Sir?
+
+Cadwell: (whispering in Bendish's ear)
+Listen.
+
+(Exit Cadwell)
+
+Jenny: (aside)
+On my oath, there's a villainous man. (to Bendish) And you, you
+imagine that I am used to your coldness and lack of love?
+
+Bendish:
+I love moralists--they put me to sleep.
+
+Jenny:
+Go, go, traitor, I will teach you.
+
+Bendish: (interrupting her)
+You don't know what you are saying.
+
+Jenny:
+What, a girl like me, a man like you. Rascal. Infamous!
+
+Bendish:
+Leave, leave, these pretty names, these illustrious names, to the
+unworthy master I serve--give me softer ones, more agreeable.
+
+Jenny:
+Give you sweet names!
+
+Bendish:
+Ah, pardon, child. I have my head full of Cadwell's follies.
+
+Jenny: (interrupting him)
+And your own?
+
+Bendish:
+That without thinking what I do--
+
+Jenny (interrupting him)
+Very obliging way of justifying yourself. I will hold you to account.
+
+Bendish:
+I will reply with the same words he said to me when I tried to censure
+his conduct.
+
+Jenny:
+I believe it. You know that I have my complaints about you and that I
+find you very bad--
+
+Bendish:
+How do I look, Jenny?
+
+Jenny:
+Ah, traitor! You copy Cadwell. But don't think that I am crazy enough
+to copy Laura.
+
+Bendish:
+Goodbye, child. I bid you good day.
+
+Jenny:
+Plague on the fool!
+
+CURTAIN
+
+
+ACT II. Scene: Same as Act I. Time: A short time later.
+
+Lackey:
+I'm going to find out if one can see, madam.
+
+Arabella:
+Eh! My child--tell me a bit, I beg you, Cadwell--is he here?
+
+Lackey:
+I don't know. I don't believe so. Shall I ring, madam?
+
+Arabella:
+Yes, ring. (Lackey pulls a bell cord) (Aside) Where can Cadwell be?
+His conduct doesn't satisfy me any more. He has the gift of tasting
+everything he finds agreeable the very moment he finds it. And the
+lack of promptness he shows to see me ruins the pleasure I got from
+the watch he sent me this morning.
+
+(Enter Jenny)
+
+Jenny: (to Lackey)
+Well! Who the devil made you ring so loud?
+
+Lackey: (exiting)
+One asks for madam.
+
+Arabella: (to Jenny)
+What's Laura doing?
+
+Jenny:
+She hasn't slept for the whole night. She's just been drowsing for a
+whole hour. If you wish I will go tell her--
+
+Arabella: (interrupting)
+No, Jenny, I will wait till she wakes.
+
+Jenny:
+Or till Cadwell returns?
+
+Arabella:
+Why Cadwell?
+
+Jenny:
+To keep you company while waiting for Laura.
+
+Arabella:
+I've nothing to do with Cadwell.
+
+Jenny:
+And now, madam, pardon me for speaking so freely, there's a rumor
+about that you don't hate him--
+
+Arabella:
+Me?
+
+Jenny:
+All the world says that he loves you, at least.
+
+Arabella:
+All the world has lied, Jenny. It is true that certain understandings
+between people do result in passions. I hold myself no more guilty of
+loving him than of having inspired love. Really, when you hear such
+foolishness-- But who can take pleasure in spreading rumors like that?
+Cadwell himself hasn't any part in it?
+
+Jenny:
+Why, madam,--what stops you? What makes you angry today is the glory
+of most women. And the pleasure of being told they are loved leads
+some to being very loving.
+
+Arabella:
+I don't know those people, Jenny, and Cadwell would be of all men the
+one about whom I would least have it said.
+
+Jenny:
+They say he's the Don Juan of London.
+
+Arabella:
+Not mine.
+
+Jenny:
+Still he has wit.
+
+Arabella:
+I find him somewhat silly--and the most annoying personality.
+
+Jenny: (interrupting her)
+He's well built.
+
+Arabella:
+What difference? I cannot stand him.
+
+Jenny:
+As for writing, nobody writes better.
+
+Arabella:
+What do you say? It's true that I haven't seen his letters, but then
+as to his manners, I believe he's incapable of doing anything good.
+
+Jenny:
+Ah--I know of so many difficulties that cannot be arranged.
+
+Arabella:
+Eh! Who Jenny?
+
+Jenny:
+What interest do you have in it?
+
+Arabella:
+I have some reasons for wishing to know it.
+
+Jenny:
+I have some, perhaps, for not telling you.
+
+Arabella:
+I beg you.
+
+Jenny:
+What do you care?
+
+Arabella:
+I would like to know who the unfortunate woman is who clings to him so
+mal apropos.
+
+(Enter Lackey)
+
+Lackey:
+Selina asks to see you, madam.
+
+Jenny: (to Arabella)
+Hold--here exactly is one of the unfortunate women. (going to Laura's
+room)
+
+(Exit Lackey and exit Jenny) (Enter Selina)
+
+Selina:
+You here all alone, madam?
+
+Arabella:
+As you see, madam.
+
+Selina:
+Where is Laura, madam?
+
+Arabella:
+I am waiting for her to wake up, madam.
+
+Selina:
+I must do the same, while I wait for my carriage to be sent over.
+
+Arabella:
+I have mine below--of which you may freely dispose.
+
+Selina:
+Could I do better than to be with you, madam?
+
+Arabella:
+I know people you would prefer easily enough.
+
+Selina:
+There's at least something I could tell you.
+
+Arabella:
+It's a little thing when one is instructed to the contrary. (Noticing
+the clasp on Selina) But what do I see?
+
+Selina:
+What do you see, madam?
+
+Arabella:
+I admire your pin. The diamonds are very nice. They're well set.
+
+Selina:
+You find it beautiful, madam? I am delighted that it is to your taste.
+
+Arabella:
+You've had it for some time, madam?
+
+Selina:
+A very long time, madam, but I rarely wear it.
+
+Arabella: (aside)
+Am I deceived? (looking at the pin) With your permission, madam. No,
+madam, it is not so long as you say.
+
+Selina:
+I tell you truly, madam.
+
+Arabella:
+I know what I say, madam.
+
+Selina:
+And I, madam, know when your questions begin to tire me.
+
+Arabella:
+But please, tell me how you got it.
+
+Selina:
+I don't have to give you an account of it.
+
+Arabella:
+Where did you buy it?
+
+Selina:
+Let's end this if you please--
+
+Arabella:
+It must have cost you a lot.
+
+Selina: (noticing on Arabella the watch she sent to Cadwell)
+It cost me, madam, it cost me--more than you paid for your watch.
+
+Arabella:
+What balderdash are you giving me, madam? What has my watch got to do
+with the pin I spoke of?
+
+Selina:
+Madam, let's not enter further into an aggravating explanation. In
+these affairs the best way is to let things pass in silence. They are
+most unfortunate when discovered. In this adventure, at least, if we
+lose our lover, we at least get our jewelry back. I am going to return
+your pin--or I will keep it if you want to keep my watch.
+
+Arabella:
+No, madam, I don't wish to keep anything that would give me the least
+reminder of the greatest villain in the world.
+
+Selina: (giving the pin)
+Here, madam, is your pin.
+
+Arabella: (giving the watch)
+And here's your watch.
+
+(Enter Jenny)
+
+Jenny:
+What swap are you making? I want to see it.
+
+Selina:
+It's nothing, Jenny. (to Arabella) Goodbye, madam, I am going to take
+your carriage.
+
+Arabella:
+Don't keep it.
+
+Selina:
+I am not going far.
+
+Jenny:
+Madam is coming here.
+
+Selina:
+I just remembered something pressing.
+
+(Exit Selina)
+
+Arabella:
+Your mistress is coming you say?
+
+Jenny:
+I hear her.
+
+Arabella:
+I intend to avenge myself on the perfidy of Cadwell right away.
+
+(Exit Jenny) (Enter Laura)
+
+Laura:
+Madam, I am in despair for having made you wait so long.
+
+Arabella:
+I've come to tell you something which will surprise you the most.
+
+Laura:
+Don't delay, madam, for I'm already impatient about--
+
+Arabella: (interrupting her)
+No, madam, if you please this will be in front of Cadwell.
+
+Laura:
+What role does he have to play in what you have to tell me?
+
+Arabella:
+I intend to reveal to you what is in the heart of a man you esteem a
+little too much.
+
+Laura: (pointing to the door to Cadwell's apartment)
+Madam, there's the door to his apartment. (calling) Jenny, Jenny.
+
+(Enter Jenny)
+
+Jenny:
+Madam?
+
+Laura:
+Tell Cadwell that madam (pointing to Arabella) wishes to speak to him.
+
+Jenny:
+Cadwell. He left, more than an hour ago, madam.
+
+Laura:
+Fine! (Jenny exits) (to Arabella) I am not to know then, madam, what
+it is that is so important for me to learn?
+
+Arabella:
+Abuse me. No, madam, I repeat to you, Cadwell doesn't deserve any
+consideration from a person like you.
+
+Laura:
+You appear to me to be sufficiently well instructed, madam, and the
+manner in which you speak, will begin to displease me if you continue
+to hide from me the reason--
+
+Arabella:
+Well, madam, learn to your shame and mine that Cadwell is deceiving us
+both; that he is the most villainous of men, and that having been
+disabused of his lies myself, I believe I ought to bring you out of
+your error.
+
+Laura:
+You oblige me much, madam, although a trifle late. You will permit me
+to say without getting angry that you would easily console me in my
+error if you were still in yours.
+
+Arabella:
+Cadwell easily made me believe all that he wished, madam. There are
+explanations between us, him, you and me that--
+
+Laura: (interrupting her)
+Ah, madam, such explanations between three people are usually
+irritating. Avoid them, and give me without them all the proofs that
+you can of his infidelity.
+
+Arabella:
+You are going to see all of Cadwell, madam.
+
+Laura: (aside)
+Ah--inconsistent man--
+
+(Enter Bendish)
+
+Bendish: (aside, staying at a distance)
+They're talking about my master.
+
+Arabella:
+I will render you certain.
+
+Laura: (aside)
+Faithless!
+
+Bendish:
+That's him.
+
+Arabella: (pulling out a letter from her purse and presenting it to
+Laura)
+Here, madam. Read!
+
+Laura: (aside)
+Traitor! Infidel!
+
+Bendish:
+Oh, surely that's him. I recognize the epithets. Let's hear.
+
+Arabella:
+This is the only letter of the thirty or so he wrote me that I have
+kept. One of my women imprudently took the others from my drawer.
+Happily I had this one about my person. It will suffice.
+
+Bendish:
+I believe we'll have to move a little sooner than we thought.
+
+(Laura takes the letter and reads it to herself)
+
+Arabella: (after Laura has finished the letter)
+Well? What do you say to that, madam?
+
+Laura:
+Alas, madam, what can I say? I can say nothing.
+
+Arabella:
+You take this affair with plenty of moderation.
+
+Laura:
+Rumor is helpful.
+
+Bendish: (aside)
+Please God we may be rid of that rumor.
+
+Arabella:
+Adieu, madam.
+
+Laura:
+Madam, I bid you good day.
+
+Arabella:
+Aren't you going to give me back my letter?
+
+Laura:
+Please leave it here with me.
+
+Arabella:
+These sorts of things are not good in the hands of interested parties.
+
+Laura:
+It won't leave my hands.
+
+Arabella:
+Goodbye then, madam. (Seeing Laura is going to escort her out and
+preventing it) Madam, where are you going?
+
+Laura:
+Madam, I leave you. It's just as well, I am in no condition.
+
+Arabella: (interrupting her)
+Go back in then.
+
+(Exit Arabella)
+
+Bendish: (aside)
+I can see it plainly. Our good fortune is going to cause us to flee to
+the country. Just heaven!
+
+Laura: (perceiving Bendish)
+Ah, Bendish, where is your master?
+
+Bendish:
+I believe he went to do something.
+
+Laura:
+Go tell him to come to me as soon as possible. As soon as possible, do
+you understand? Tell him that I have something to say to him of the
+utmost importance, that he come at once. Bring him with you. Do you
+understand clearly?
+
+Bendish:
+Yes, madam, I understand too well--and I haven't understood anything.
+
+Laura:
+Go then, quickly. Stay! I am going to write a word. That will hurry
+him more. I will do it in an instant.
+
+(Exit Laura)
+
+Bendish:
+Ah, this blow will leave us lost without resources. May the plague
+choke coquettes, coquettery and those who invented it. We are taken in
+a snare.
+
+(Enter Cadwell)
+
+Bendish:
+Ah, sir.
+
+Cadwell:
+What's the matter with him?
+
+Bendish:
+You are lost.
+
+Cadwell:
+Really?
+
+Bendish:
+Sir, Arabella, that cursed Arabella with arguments I don't understand
+--(hesitating to continue)
+
+Cadwell:
+Well?
+
+Bendish:
+She has given the letter you wrote her to Laura.
+
+Cadwell:
+Well?
+
+Bendish:
+Well? What more do you want? Don't you understand what followed?
+
+Cadwell:
+Well?
+
+Bendish:
+You're dreaming, I swear, with your "Well?"
+
+Cadwell:
+Well?
+
+Bendish:
+Well! Well! Well! Oh! And bad for you by all the devils in hell. Say
+something. At once.
+
+Cadwell:
+Wait here. I am going--
+
+Bendish: (interrupting him)
+She told me to look for you--
+
+Cadwell:
+Never mind, I'm going--I wish Arabella was dead.
+
+Bendish:
+Ha--how ugly she is now, right sir?
+
+Cadwell:
+We must--
+
+Bendish: (interrupting him)
+Here's Laura.
+
+(Enter Laura)
+
+Laura: (to Bendish without seeing Cadwell)
+Wait, Bendish, carry this to Cadwell. (seeing Cadwell) Ah, you here,
+sir. I am delighted to find you so apropos.
+
+Cadwell:
+Eh, madam! Did you think I was out again?
+
+Laura:
+I though you were here--but henceforth--
+
+Cadwell:
+Today is not the day for you to make resolutions.
+
+Laura:
+Heaven grant I had never seen it. Monster whom I looked on with
+horror.
+
+Cadwell:
+I can tell from these epithets those who have been inspiring you.
+
+Laura:
+And you can see from the effects the reward which is your due.
+
+Cadwell:
+I know that I should thank you for the indifference you have shown me
+for some time.
+
+Laura:
+Don't arrogate to yourself the scorn I intend to bear you for the rest
+of my life.
+
+Cadwell:
+You taught me yesterday that I must learn to expect it.
+
+Laura:
+Infidel! I have never passed a day without giving you some proof of my
+affection.
+
+Cadwell:
+Real affections, madam, that respond so ill to the urgings of my
+letter without any explanation. But let's not speak of that.
+
+Laura:
+What letter, perfidious one. What do you mean to say?
+
+Cadwell:
+Oh let's stop talking. Spare me such names.
+
+Laura:
+No, no. I mean for you to explain yourself. I can justify myself very
+easily and I will have some pleasure in doing so after the blackest,
+most cowardly-- Continue once more. What letter do you wish to speak
+to me of?
+
+Cadwell:
+Oh, madam, what's the use of it? The letter Bendish gave you
+yesterday.
+
+Laura:
+To me?
+
+Cadwell:
+To you, madam.
+
+Laura:
+I received a letter.
+
+Cadwell:
+Uh, you yourself, madam.
+
+Laura:
+Which Bendish brought?
+
+Cadwell:
+He himself.
+
+Laura:
+That's not true.
+
+Cadwell:
+Bendish?
+
+Bendish:
+Sir?
+
+Cadwell:
+Didn't I write a letter yesterday?
+
+Bendish:
+Yes, sir.
+
+Cadwell:
+Didn't I tell you to take it to London?
+
+Bendish:
+That's true.
+
+Cadwell:
+To whom did you take it?
+
+Bendish:
+To whom?
+
+Cadwell:
+Yes, idiot! To whom? Wasn't it madam?
+
+Bendish:
+Yes, sir.
+
+Cadwell:
+Didn't you come express?
+
+Bendish:
+I remain in agreement.
+
+Cadwell:
+Didn't you enter this lodging to give it to her?
+
+Bendish:
+That's certain.
+
+Cadwell:
+Well-what did you do with it, you ass. Answer.
+
+Bendish:
+Sir.
+
+Cadwell: (interrupting him)
+You lost it, right?
+
+Bendish:
+Sir, when I came to madam's room to put it in her hands-- (hesitating)
+
+Cadwell:
+Well?
+
+Bendish:
+I couldn't find it.
+
+Cadwell:
+Ah, fool! (to Laura) Madam, I beg your pardon. (to Bendish, pretending
+to menace him) I don't know what prevents me-- (to Laura) I am in
+despair to have accused you so unjustly as I have done. (to Bendish)
+Find the letter, rogue! Was someone in the room?
+
+Bendish:
+There were a lot of people, sir.
+
+Cadwell:
+My letter will be lost! This is awful! In it I begged you to spend
+some time in the country with me and my aunt. And whoever has found it
+has used it to shred our relationship.-- But please, madam, while I am
+unable to disguise the cause of my chagrin--explain to me what has
+aroused you so seriously against me.
+
+Laura:
+Oh, your dodge is very adroit, I admit. And I might be silly enough to
+believe you if your letter could agree with what you tell me. I have
+the letter. It is in my hands. I won't tell you how I got it. But
+let's see if you can explain away all the scorn it expresses for me.
+
+Cadwell:
+Scorn for you?
+
+Laura:
+Yes, cruel man--and in all it's spite. (pulls out the letter) Listen.
+"I am in the country for the last two days and without Laura. The
+complaisance that I am obliged to show a sick aunt makes me stay in a
+strange solitude. Couldn't you try to render my condition supportable.
+If you do not take it on yourself, Laura and the whole world together
+cannot help me. I will never love and never adore anyone but you in my
+life. Adieu."
+
+Bendish:
+We shall see that someone counterfeited his signature. What will he
+say?
+
+Cadwell:
+Ah, I see now that no one poisoned you. I beg you, madam, give me the
+letter. (Laura hands it to him puzzled and he begins to read) "I am in
+the country for the last two days and I am without Laura! The
+complaisance that I am obliged to show a sick aunt makes me stay in a
+strange solitude. Couldn't you try to render my condition supportable?
+IF YOU DO NOT TAKE IT ON YOURSELF, LAURA--the whole world together
+cannot help me. I will never love and never adore anyone but you in my
+life. Adieu." (after having read the letter aloud) This letter is full
+of scorn for you?
+
+Laura:
+Oh, Cadwell, Cadwell, you have many enemies or I am very weak.
+
+Cadwell:
+Still something remains hidden. Madam, I beg you to explain. Let me
+know who I ought to challenge or distrust.
+
+Laura:
+No, Cadwell. Be content that I give no credence to the treason that I
+suspected of you.
+
+Cadwell:
+Madam, I am the happiest man I the world today--but innocence is
+always recognized. Yet I fear that mine in the end will succumb to
+some new imposture.
+
+Laura:
+Ah, Cadwell, can your interests be in better hands than mine? I am
+only too ingenious in finding reasons to excuse you and my suspicions
+only begin when I cannot find you innocent.
+
+Cadwell:
+Yet, madam, what would have happened today, had I not by a miracle
+understood and brought the truth to your eyes? I would have lost
+forever a heart that my fidelity ought to have preserved for me
+eternally. Can I be for a moment without mortal uncertainty in the
+future? Things pass through my head, each one more bizarre than the
+rest. I feel I'd rather not see you ever again in my life than to be
+so cruelly forsaken even once. Me--faithless to my dear Laura! Madam,
+if you don't assure me against all that can tempt you against me; if
+you don't promise to shut the mouths of those who slander me before
+you--you will see me die of despair.
+
+Laura:
+You don't love anyone but me, Cadwell?
+
+Cadwell:
+I hate all that is not you.
+
+Laura:
+Ah, Cadwell! Don't deceive me!
+
+Cadwell:
+Why would I do that, madam?
+
+Laura:
+How do I know? To pile conquest on conquest--to satisfy a ridiculous
+vanity that all men pride themselves on these days. Such easy things
+don't do you honor, Cadwell.
+
+Cadwell:
+Ah, madam, I prefer to die.
+
+Laura:
+What are you doing today?
+
+Cadwell:
+Madam, my brother has asked me to visit him.
+
+Laura:
+Are you going?
+
+Cadwell:
+Soon, madam.
+
+Laura:
+When will I see you again?
+
+Cadwell:
+The very soonest I can.
+
+Laura:
+Adieu, Cadwell. Think of me.
+
+Cadwell:
+I am occupied by nothing but you.
+
+(Exit Laura)
+
+Bendish:
+Well, sir, I'm learning as you see.
+
+Cadwell:
+You did wonders.
+
+Bendish:
+Frankly sir, if you hadn't been seconded our ship would have come
+aground. Truly, the trouble that you had in this adventure--I'm not
+sorry it happened for I don't doubt that after such a hot alarm you'll
+take care not to make another such mistake.
+
+Cadwell: (looking at his watch)
+What time is it? What the devil! Four o'clock. Sophia is waiting for
+me on the river.
+
+Bendish:
+Sir!
+
+Cadwell:
+Shut up!
+
+Bendish: (aside)
+Ah--what a man! (aloud) Shall I go with you?
+
+Cadwell: (taking a few steps towards leaving)
+No. (Returning) I forgot. (pulling a letter from his pocket and giving
+it to Bendish) Take this letter to the Duchess of Devonshire.
+
+Bendish:
+The Duchess of Devonshire. It's fifteen months since you last saw her.
+
+Cadwell:
+Go, I tell you.
+
+Bendish: (aside)
+What a devilish imagination. Ah, she sold land eight days ago. (aloud)
+I'm going. But where will I find you?
+
+Cadwell:
+At Charlotte's where I must be precisely at five o'clock, don't you
+know? Don't wait, for I won't be long.
+
+(Exit Cadwell)
+
+Bendish:
+Go, go, we are ordered. And by God all is not going to end as it
+should. Cursed be the first little she-monkey that gave him his
+reputation. Really, what's so marvelous about him? Don't I have eyes,
+a nose, a body like him? It's chance that does everything? Just make a
+little stir and you will succeed in all things. The Duchess is amorous
+of so and so. She passes for a connoisseur. All the gallant ladies
+want to know if she's right. All try to please her. One by a veritable
+infatuation, another by jealousy, another by avenging a lover who had
+left her, to reawaken the ardors of a languishing lover--all to follow
+the fashion. For it's fashion in this as in all else. But let's go
+wait on her. For if I only need to deceive six persons for the
+remainder of the day, I'll be off quite cheaply.
+
+CURTAIN
+
+
+
+ACT III. The same, a short time later.
+
+Worthy:
+Sister, I've seen Victor as you advised me. I was careful to tell him
+of Laura's attachment to Cadwell. Doubtless he's informed of what's
+happening and I didn't think it would be honest for me to further
+agitate a man who seemed to be in despair. Besides, this is a bad way
+to earn the heart of a lady we esteem. But, sister, I believe chance
+has done for us all that we could hope. In short, Arabella, whom I
+just met, assured me that she has disabused Laura--that she had just
+put in her hands a letter from Cadwell--
+
+Olivia:
+A letter written by Cadwell to Arabella?
+
+Worthy:
+Yes, I tell you.
+
+Jenny:
+Ah, madam, how relieved I am! We are going to see the master and the
+valet greatly abashed. This puppy Cadwell with his impertinent airs,
+and this rogue of a Bendish, who's starting to be like him. But
+listen, don't be fooled. Do what is necessary to finish things. If you
+give them time to repair the damage--
+
+Olivia:
+Ah, I don't know what to believe. Laura has a very cowardly heart--
+
+Jenny:
+My God, Laura loves him! Laura is credulous and Cadwell is a very
+loveable villain. You must dare all. Take her in a fit of passion or
+you will obtain nothing. As for me, I have taken the trouble to
+strengthen what you've told her, but I haven't noticed any change in
+the way she looks.
+
+Worthy:
+She's choking back her resentment. I have it from Arabella.
+
+Olivia:
+Go then, brother, go find her. Test her soul. Take advantage of such a
+favorable opportunity. And be sure something will happen. We are
+laying many traps for Cadwell. In the end they will enable us to open
+Laura's eyes.
+
+Worthy:
+Ah, sister, it's time that you do that, for truly, I am dying. This
+unjust prejudice for Cadwell is killing me. I really believe I would
+suffer less if he wasn't deceiving her.
+
+Jenny:
+What amuses you? You tell us here the finest things in the world. When
+you are with her you cannot open your mouth. If you saw Cadwell with
+Laura--he never stops talking even if he repeats the same thing to her
+a hundred times.
+
+Worthy:
+He's happy, Jenny.
+
+Jenny:
+Go. Become him if you can.
+
+(Exit Worthy)
+
+Olivia:
+But Jenny, the more I think of what my brother just said, the less
+likely I think it.
+
+Jenny:
+I don't understand it any better than you. Cadwell was very gay when
+he left. Laura wasn't sad. There's a misunderstanding somewhere or
+Cadwell has played a tick of his specialty.
+
+Olivia:
+What could he have said against such strong proof?
+
+Jenny:
+My word, I don't know. What should I say to you? He opens his big
+eyes, he sighs, he threatens, he weeps, he falls to his knees, he
+walks about with long strides, breaks a chair, tears a ruffle, bites
+his nails, tears his hair, and in the end, he's right.
+
+Olivia:
+Nice manners to justify oneself!
+
+Jenny:
+If I hadn't seen him play the same role with her a thousand times, I
+wouldn't know what to say. He made me cry in the beginning, but now I
+am cured.-- But you, madam, who speak as if you wish to help your
+brother, who can do it better than you? For I'm not blind. I've
+noticed for a long time that Cadwell watches you, and because I see
+that you respond well enough to all his tricks, I believe that you are
+not lacking in what it takes to prevail on his passion and undeceive
+Laura.
+
+Olivia:
+You have good eyes, Jenny. Well, since you have observed it, I am
+going to make you my confidant. It's something I've thought of for
+some time, but it's the last remedy I wish to employ because I find it
+the most shameful.
+
+Jenny:
+Bah, madam, it is not shameful to punish a rascal.
+
+Olivia:
+Besides, I'm afraid he will distrust me.
+
+Jenny:
+Indeed! Him! He wouldn't distrust you if you told him you hated him.
+He is so sure of his own worth that he thinks people are forced to
+love him just by looking at him.--I hear someone. Perhaps it's him.
+He'll fall in any trap you set for him.
+
+Olivia:
+He's more clever than you can imagine.
+
+Jenny:
+If he didn't do foolish things he wouldn't need all his trickery. It's
+for you to embroil him so well that nothing he can do will be enough
+to get him out of it.
+
+Olivia:
+Let me do it.
+
+(Exit Jenny) (Then enter Cadwell)
+
+Cadwell: (with pretended embarrassment)
+I don't know what I ought to do, madam.
+
+Olivia:
+You must read your own thoughts and take counsel.
+
+Cadwell:
+Ought I to stay, madam, and expose myself to the greatest peril I have
+run in my life?
+
+Olivia:
+This enigma is very difficult to solve. But I do not see what peril
+you run in remaining here.
+
+Cadwell:
+Ah, madam, how badly my eyes serve me! That my sighs are so badly
+explained. What? All my actions have not made themselves understood?
+
+Olivia:
+I have only noticed in you that you are prodigiously at ease with the
+whole world.
+
+Cadwell:
+Ah, madam! If I haven't kept honest appearances for the others, much
+different are the ones I've had for you. You owe me a complete account
+of them. I have done it only to better hide my love.
+
+Olivia:
+Ah, Cadwell, are you thinking carefully of what you are saying to me?
+
+Cadwell:
+Yes, madam, I have thought of it. I know all that I risk. I know that
+I lose Laura forever if you abuse the sincere declaration I am making
+to you. But I know that I cannot live and hide my feelings for you.
+
+Olivia:
+I've seen too much of you to believe you are sincere.
+
+Cadwell:
+Eh! What do my feelings say to you, madam, who cannot be convinced by
+the strongest passion that ever was experienced?
+
+Olivia:
+Don't you swear that all the time to Laura?
+
+Cadwell:
+Judge by the continual reproaches I receive from her.
+
+Olivia:
+But you deceive her then?
+
+Cadwell:
+Why, madam, don't you know how things are done? Don't you know that an
+uncle ordered me to attach myself to her, and that her great wealth
+put this project in his head. I was not then engaged elsewhere. I
+consented to all he wished. But I saw you, madam, and love made me
+neglect a very considerable fortune.
+
+Olivia:
+Ah, Cadwell. I don't know if all you tell me is true. But I am sure I
+wish at least--
+
+Cadwell: (interrupting her and falling on his knees)
+Ah, madam! Permit me, I beg you, to throw myself at your feet. I
+conjure you in the name of the most lively tenderness of a passion
+which will never end to put me to the strongest test you can invent.
+Do you want Laura's letters? I abandon them to you. Do you want me
+never to see her again? I consent. Do you want me to smash her
+portrait before your eyes? I will do it. There's nothing I won't
+sacrifice. Command it!
+
+Olivia:
+I wish that you had never spoken.
+
+Cadwell:
+Had I offered you my first vows! I would still be faithful.
+
+Olivia:
+But Cadwell, what are you asking from me?
+
+Cadwell:
+That you love me, that you think it, and that you tell me--endlessly.
+
+Olivia:
+You will betray me.
+
+Cadwell:
+No, madam, never.
+
+Olivia:
+Put it in writing.
+
+Cadwell:
+In my blood if necessary.
+
+Olivia:
+You no longer love Laura? You will live eternally for me? You promise
+me this and your hand is ready to sign the declaration?
+
+Cadwell:
+Right now. Command me!
+
+Olivia:
+Don't forget then, Cadwell, to put in all that confirms your oaths.
+
+Cadwell:
+I am going to bring it to you, madam, while you in turn will give me
+proofs of your affection.
+
+Olivia:
+You will be content.
+
+Cadwell:
+That's enough.
+
+Olivia:
+I will wait for you.
+
+(Exit Cadwell) (Then, enter Jenny)
+
+Jenny:
+Well, madam?
+
+Olivia:
+Everything's going fine. And my brother--what's he doing?
+
+Jenny: (seeing Laura enter with Worthy)
+Nothing much, madam.-- Here he is.
+
+(Enter Worthy and Laura)
+
+Worthy:
+What, madam! Nothing can dissuade you!
+
+Laura:
+Stop, Worthy. I know more about all that than you. It's as I told you.
+
+Worthy:
+The letter that Arabella gave to Laura--was a letter written to Laura.
+
+Laura: (to Olivia)
+That's the way it is.
+
+Worthy: (to Olivia)
+Arabella for inexplicable reasons takes the opportunity of using the
+letter to injure Cadwell.
+
+Olivia:
+Well, brother, the matter is doubtful. Laura loves Cadwell, she takes
+his side. What do you find extraordinary in that?
+
+Laura:
+The thing is not doubtful, madam. There are circumstances which assure
+me it is true.
+
+Olivia: (to Worthy)
+Madam's right. Show her he has deceived her so that Cadwell cannot
+deny it, then--
+
+Laura: (interrupting)
+Oh, I tell you if you can bring that about I will never see him again
+in my life.
+
+Worthy:
+But, madam, what more is necessary?
+
+Olivia:
+Oh, brother! How silly you are. (taking him to a nearby room) Come
+into this room, I want to talk to you.
+
+Worthy:
+But--
+
+Olivia: (interrupting him)
+I want to talk to you, I tell you. Follow me.
+
+(Exit Olivia and Worthy)
+
+Laura:
+Ah, I've seen more than I want to see. They intend to hunt Cadwell out
+of my heart. They are taking measures to do it that will not succeed.
+
+Jenny:
+For that they are wrong, madam. For me, at present I am on his side.
+He tells you that he loves you--why not believe him? They suspect him
+wrongly. They say he deceives you--all the world believes it. What
+does it matter? You are the interested party--he made you listen to
+what he pleased, that's all. Must he render an account of his actions
+to others?
+
+Laura:
+My God, Jenny, I understand that language. But be advised that I am
+not a dupe. I have eyes like others--in an affair that was nobody's
+business but mine.
+
+Jenny:
+I am speaking seriously, madam. That young fellow loves you terribly.
+
+(Exit Jenny, then enter Cadwell)
+
+Cadwell:
+Stay, madam--here--
+
+Laura: (interrupting him)
+What have you there? What do you intend to do with that letter?
+
+Cadwell:
+I am come to bring it to you, madam.
+
+Laura:
+May I see it?
+
+Cadwell:
+If you will bear with me. I must tell you the reasons that brought me
+to write it.
+
+Laura:
+I am listening to you.
+
+Cadwell:
+You must help me in this business.
+
+Laura:
+Speak quickly then.
+
+Cadwell:
+Madam, I can no longer stand all the nasty things said about us. I
+know that Olivia is part of it. I have decided to stop them, and I
+have found the way by pretending to make love to her.
+
+Laura:
+What?
+
+Cadwell:
+Listen, madam. Here's the best part. From the first interview, I have
+so well advanced that we are come to terms.
+
+Laura:
+What are you saying?
+
+Cadwell:
+Hear the rest, I beg you. She has exacted a promise from me that I
+will never love anyone other than herself. And she has even engaged
+that I must put in that I never loved you.
+
+Laura:
+You were able to write it?
+
+Cadwell:
+Pardon me for doing so. All appeared permissible to me to avenge you.
+
+Laura:
+And what can assure me that this pretence doesn't hide a truth?
+
+Cadwell:
+Everything, madam. And especially the care I have taken not to put
+this paper in her hands until you have seen it.
+
+Laura:
+Ah, Cadwell, I will never be able to accept such a pretence.
+
+Cadwell:
+Ah, madam, I beg you. Now I have the letter to Olivia in my hands.
+
+Laura:
+Show me this paper.
+
+Cadwell:
+Madam, I hear Olivia. Contain yourself, I beg you.
+
+Laura:
+It will be hard.
+
+Cadwell:
+It must be done.
+
+(Enter Olivia)
+
+Laura:
+Where have you come from, madam?
+
+Olivia:
+I've just come from a conversation with my brother which concerns you.
+
+Cadwell: (giving Olivia his letter)
+Madam, here's more than you asked me for. (Olivia takes the letter,
+reads it, and hands it to Laura) Madam, what are you doing?
+
+Olivia:
+Cadwell: do not be surprised if, after having deceived so many times,
+you are deceived in your turn. I never loved you and I have not the
+least jealousy--but I could no longer suffer you to trick a person who
+does not deserve your trickery. Besides, my brother's interest engaged
+me to all this. I am going to disclose your perfidy. But in the future
+profit from this mischance. You have wit, mix in a little sincerity,
+and someday I hope you will thank me for the advice I have given you.
+(to Laura) Read, madam.
+
+Laura: (reading the letter to herself in a low voice)
+Cadwell.
+
+Olivia: (After Laura has finished reading)
+Well, what do you say to that?
+
+Laura:
+That I am delighted, madam, to know your good faith, and to be
+persuaded that you didn't wish to betray me.
+
+Olivia:
+You will continue to see Cadwell?
+
+Laura:
+Yes, madam.
+
+Olivia:
+You will continue to love him?
+
+Laura:
+More than I have ever done in my life.
+
+Olivia:
+Then I must never see you again!
+
+(Exit Olivia)
+
+Laura:
+Cadwell, I must leave. (in a tone marked with rage) I cannot leave her
+much longer in her error.
+
+(Exit Laura)
+
+Cadwell:
+What do you make of that? Laura doesn't appear to me much disabused.
+The uncertainty she was in when leaving me, her eyes which couldn't
+keep back some tears--all these things bode me no good. My shock at
+first, would have betrayed me without a doubt. What does it matter?
+Well, so much the worse for her. I take every precaution possible to
+spare her chagrin. If she must chagrin herself, I consent. The trick
+I'm using is not true, but it's possibly true or so it appears to me,
+and she ought always to give me consideration for the trouble I take
+to try to deceive her.
+
+(Enter Worthy)
+
+Worthy:
+Ah, my dear Cadwell, I am delighted.
+
+Cadwell:
+Eh! What for, Worthy?
+
+Worthy:
+By what they just told me.
+
+Cadwell:
+Eh! What have they just told you?
+
+Worthy:
+That you love my sister.
+
+Cadwell:
+It's true.
+
+Worthy:
+Oh, fine! I've come to assure you that nothing can prevent you from
+being happy together.
+
+Cadwell:
+Eh, how?
+
+Worthy:
+If you wish it, I promise you, I will employ all my credit with her to
+make her agree to marry you.
+
+Cadwell:
+I don't intend to get married.
+
+Worthy:
+What then?
+
+Cadwell:
+That's the way it is.
+
+Worthy:
+Didn't you tell me that you love my sister?
+
+Cadwell:
+I remain in agreement.
+
+Worthy:
+Uh--what do you intend by loving her?
+
+Cadwell:
+To love her.
+
+Worthy:
+Cadwell!
+
+Cadwell:
+Worthy!
+
+Worthy:
+You're not thinking of it.
+
+Cadwell:
+Pardon me.
+
+Worthy:
+You love my sister without thinking of marrying her?
+
+Cadwell:
+Do you marry all those you love?
+
+Worthy:
+There are certain men who ought not to love at all with ideas like
+that.
+
+Cadwell:
+That I intend to see.
+
+Worthy:
+You're losing your mind.
+
+Cadwell:
+I don't see anything peculiar about a man not wanting to get married.
+
+Worthy:
+Goodbye, Cadwell. You won't always be so happy or so clever.
+
+(Exit Worthy)
+
+Cadwell:
+We shall see. God, this is funny. Once, I would have accepted the
+role, but after the trick his sister just played me--
+
+(Enter Bendish)
+
+Bendish:
+Truly, you're prompt, I just came from Charlotte's--
+
+Cadwell:
+Peace!
+
+Bendish:
+I learned there that--
+
+Cadwell:
+Peace!
+
+Bendish:
+I went for your scarf--
+
+Cadwell:
+Shut up!
+
+Bendish:
+Your jerkin--
+
+Cadwell:
+Will you shut up!
+
+Bendish: (aside)
+Listen!
+
+Cadwell:
+Bendish?
+
+Bendish:
+Sir?
+
+Cadwell:
+Give me the mirror. (Bendish goes and returns with the objects as they
+are called for) Listen--my snuff box--wait--bring the armchair-- Eh!
+My writing table.-- No, give me a comb. Come on then,--will you hurry
+up?
+
+Bendish:
+Tell me exactly what you want--
+
+Cadwell:
+I don't know. I want to sit down. (aside) Madam Olivia, madam Olivia,
+you have played me at trick--
+
+(Enter Jenny)
+
+Jenny:
+Madam, wants to know if you sup here?
+
+Cadwell:
+Why, Jenny?
+
+Jenny:
+Because if you don't sup here she will go in town.
+
+Cadwell:
+I don't wish to constrain her, Jenny.
+
+Jenny:
+Eh! You don't constrain her as much as you think. Are you supping here
+or not?
+
+Cadwell:
+I will sup here if that will give her pleasure.
+
+Jenny:
+I will go tell madam.
+
+(Exit Jenny)
+
+Cadwell:
+Do you know what has happened?
+
+Bendish:
+Nobody is speaking of anything else downstairs.
+
+Cadwell:
+But is Laura persuaded that the thing is as I wish her to understand
+it?
+
+Bendish:
+Apparently, since she wanted to know if you will sup with her.
+
+Cadwell:
+On my oath, this is really funny.
+
+Bendish:
+Very droll.
+
+Cadwell:
+Assuredly, she doubts nothing. What she has just sent to ask confirms
+that sufficiently. But finish. What did Caroline want with me?
+
+Bendish:
+That she never wants to see you; that she regards you at all times as
+a man without faith, without honor, slanderous, indiscreet, a traitor,
+rascal, unfaithful.
+
+Cadwell:
+Eh! What did you say?
+
+Bendish:
+I said nothing, sir. It was Charlotte. (pulling from his pocket a pair
+of gloves and presenting them to Cadwell) Still, she gave me a pair of
+gloves to oblige you to go there. (The Petite Chevalier appears) Wait
+--here's her nephew who has come to fetch you without a doubt.
+
+(Enter the Little Gentleman)
+
+L. Gent.:
+Eh! Good day my friend.
+
+Cadwell:
+Eh: Good day child. Where are you going?
+
+L. Gent.: I've come to see you. Are you angry about it?
+
+Cadwell:
+No, not at all. Hold on then.
+
+L. Gent.:
+I intend to kiss you.
+
+Cadwell: (embracing him)
+Here's the way it's done.
+
+L. Gent.: (embracing Cadwell a second time)
+And for my aunt, don't I get one?
+
+Cadwell: (retiring)
+Well--is it enough? Fie then, little trickster, you've ruined my wig.
+
+L. Gent.:
+Yes, that's true. I made a big booboo. (to Bendish) Eh. Good day,
+Bendish. (presenting his hand to Bendish) Touch that.
+
+Bendish: (touching his hand)
+That's how it is done.
+
+Cadwell:
+Give him a seat.
+
+L. Gent.:
+No. I don't know how to stay seated.
+
+Bendish: (to Cadwell)
+Can he be trusted?
+
+Cadwell: (to Little Gentleman)
+Come here.
+
+L. Gent.: (throwing Cadwell's wig on the floor)
+Well?
+
+Cadwell:
+What a villain to father a child like this! Isn't it time to grow
+wise?
+
+L. Gent.:
+And you who are much larger than I? My aunt says you are not very
+wise.
+
+Cadwell:
+Your aunt is crazy. Was it she who sent you here?
+
+L. Gent.:
+She bet me half a crown that I wouldn't dare to come here to see if
+you were home.
+
+Cadwell:
+You made a bet?
+
+L. Gent.:
+Certainly.
+
+Bendish: (aside)
+Plague. He knows. The little gossip has got him.
+
+Cadwell: (grabbing the Little Gentleman's nose)
+What have you got there? (making him take some tobacco) There.
+
+L. Gent.:
+Ah, fie! Plague on the villain and his tobacco. Hold on, you will see
+if I don't tell my aunt.
+
+Cadwell:
+Will you shut up?
+
+L. Gent.:
+Why'd you make me take tobacco then?
+
+Cadwell:
+Peace.
+
+L. Gent.:
+If I don't make my aunt scold you.
+
+Cadwell:
+Little gallows bird.
+
+L. Gent.:
+Patience.-- You call my aunt crazy?
+
+Cadwell:
+Bendish.
+
+Bendish:
+Sir?
+
+L. Gent.:
+When my aunt knows--
+
+Cadwell:
+Shut his mouth. He cries like a little demon.
+
+L. Gent.:
+I will tell all this to my aunt.
+
+Bendish:
+Still?
+
+Cadwell:
+Bring him to me. (Bendish marches the little Gentleman to Cadwell) My
+poor little man, I beg you. Don't make so much noise.
+
+L. Gent.:
+You will see with your tobacco.
+
+Cadwell:
+Well, I won't give you anymore.
+
+L. Gent.:
+If you hadn't done that I would have told you something.
+
+Cadwell:
+What?
+
+L. Gent.:
+No, you'll never know.
+
+Cadwell:
+I beg you.
+
+L. Gent.:
+No.
+
+Cadwell:
+My little dear.
+
+L. Gent.:
+No.
+
+Cadwell:
+Eh. The little animal doesn't see that I'm mocking him and that I know
+everything he intends to tell me.
+
+L. Gent.:
+Yes? Do you know that my aunt told me to come here and to bring you to
+her, and that she told me to make it appear as if it came from me? But
+because of your tobacco you will know nothing. I know how to punish
+you.
+
+Cadwell:
+And I--I don't want to listen to you.
+
+L. Gent.:
+And I--I have no desire to say anything further, either.
+
+Bendish:
+The good little messenger.
+
+Cadwell:
+Are my porters below?
+
+Bendish:
+Yes, sir.
+
+Cadwell:
+Follow me.
+
+CURTAIN
+
+
+
+ACT IV. The same. Later that day.
+
+Jenny:
+Go on, go on, fear nothing. Laura is beginning to open her eyes. Our
+man will soon be taken, I tell you.
+
+Worthy:
+I am more afraid than ever.
+
+Olivia:
+Frankly, I have trouble persuading myself that your plan will succeed.
+All that's happened will make him more careful.
+
+Jenny:
+Him! It will make him more crazy. You don't know much about human
+nature. He's counting right now that he can make Laura believe black
+is white. Experience will only make him more bold. You will see if I
+don't know people.
+
+Worthy:
+If you can make me happy with your cunning, believe that--
+
+Jenny:
+Stop, you owe me nothing for whatever I do. I do it only because I
+want to do it. It's a natural bent I have to ruin all these little
+animals with beautiful manners and cold hearts. Ah, if all women were
+like me! I am furious when I think that they cause more honest men to
+be shunned, with their devilish jargon, their oaths, and endless
+tricks and rascalities. It puts me in a whopping rage.
+
+Worthy:
+Your man is warned.
+
+Jenny:
+He is instructed in what he must do.
+
+Olivia:
+He is not a man to be won over by money?
+
+Jenny:
+Oh, as to that I cannot say. I don't know if the mediocrity of his
+fortune and the natural desire to acquire money wouldn't tempt him
+from an untested probity. But there is a remedy for that. Promise to
+pay him only if all goes well and you will see that he will manage it.
+
+Worthy:
+As to that, Jenny, he can be assured. Where is he?
+
+Jenny:
+He's waiting in the Park for me to send for him.
+
+Worthy:
+I will go there myself.
+
+Jenny:
+You will do well.
+
+(Exit Worthy)
+
+Olivia:
+I won't hide from you, Jenny, that I wouldn't get involved in this for
+anything or anyone but my brother. I don't like doing wrong.
+
+Jenny:
+You were not so scrupulous this morning.
+
+Olivia:
+I admit that and I don't know why.
+
+Jenny:
+I do.
+
+Olivia:
+Why?
+
+Jenny:
+You want me to say it?
+
+Olivia:
+Yes.
+
+Jenny:
+It's because he told you he loved you.
+
+Olivia:
+Yes, I admit it. If only his heart agreed with his manners.
+
+Jenny: (interrupting)
+Already more than half the way is taken. On my word, I thought I was
+speaking with a reasonable person, but I see that--
+
+Olivia:
+How you twist things around!
+
+Jenny:
+Eh! My God, I understand that talk "his heart agreed with his
+manners." There's the jargon about which I was just speaking to you.
+
+Olivia:
+How crazy you are!
+
+Jenny:
+I am not crazy; I know what I'm talking about.
+
+(Enter Laura)
+
+Laura: (to Olivia)
+Well, madam, again you bring me to the point of being disabused. Alas,
+when will you disoblige me by proving that Cadwell is unfaithful?
+
+Jenny:
+There's time remaining in the day.
+
+Laura:
+No, no, Jenny. Don't misunderstand. It's more than a day since I
+distrusted Cadwell. But can one separate so easily?
+
+Olivia:
+Listen, madam, for myself, I will say no more. An error which pleases
+--contents us; a different state would seem harsh. I don't wish to
+poison your life's peace.
+
+Laura:
+No, no, madam, let's finish it. It's time. I cannot remain for the
+rest of my life in the condition I am in. And I am tired of
+complaining.
+
+Jenny:
+Ah, that's better. Here's a woman. Courage, madam.
+
+Laura:
+I believe he's with Charlotte. Shall I send for him?
+
+Jenny:
+To what good? They are not going to tell you anything, and you will
+merely increase their happiness.
+
+Laura:
+Then do what you wish.
+
+Jenny:
+I will do only what I said. (Seeing Captain Slice appear)
+Here's Captain Slice. This is the man I spoke to you about.
+
+(Enter Slice)
+
+Laura:
+Jenny has told you what must be done?
+
+Slice:
+Don't worry about anything, madam.
+
+Jenny:
+Have you some strong friends with you?
+
+Slice:
+I've got all I need.
+
+Jenny:
+Don't mess up, at least.
+
+Slice:
+Not my intention.
+
+Olivia: (aside)
+In truth, it makes me sad. (to Laura) Madam, yet once more-- Don't
+push this any further. You will be unhappy.
+
+Laura:
+No, madam, I tell you I am dying of it.
+
+Jenny: (hearing someone)
+I hear someone on the little landing. Retire. Perhaps it's Cadwell.
+Oh, quickly. He mustn't see Captain Slice.
+
+(Exit Laura, Olivia, and Slice) (After a moment enter Bendish)
+
+Bendish:
+Jenny, have you seen my master?
+
+Jenny:
+Bah! Silly, you know where he is better than I do.
+
+Bendish:
+No, may the Devil take me!
+
+Jenny:
+I just heard his porters.
+
+Bendish:
+It's true but I was using them.
+
+Jenny:
+But why in a chaise? Were you ill?
+
+Bendish:
+Me? No. I wanted to make them earn their wages. I lost my master at
+the Opera. I don't know what has become of him. I believe one of his
+friends brought him home.
+
+Jenny:
+Ah, I hear him. Assuredly it is he. Goodbye.
+
+Bendish:
+Goodbye, my Princess. (exit Jenny) Pretty language. That's what you
+get from service--always learning something. My princess, my pretty
+lady, my little angel, my queen, my petite. Killing words like these
+and a few sighs, and behold, no more is needed to turn the heads of
+several ladies of my acquaintance.
+
+(Enter Cadwell)
+
+Cadwell: (laughing)
+Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha!
+
+Bendish:
+What's making you laugh so?
+
+Cadwell: (still laughing)
+Ah, ah, ha, ha.
+
+Bendish:
+Tell me what it is, so I can laugh, too.
+
+Cadwell:
+I was at the Opera as you know.
+
+Bendish:
+Indeed, you were there. What the devil do you want? You were in the
+pit, on the stage, in the balcony--there wasn't a place there you
+didn't get into.
+
+Cadwell:
+Didn't you see me in one of the wings?
+
+Bendish:
+Indeed, I saw you there, and I saw it when the house began to hiss
+you. They didn't hiss you like they do bad actors. If you persist, you
+will start a fashion of being hissed by spectators, fools, obviously.
+What the devil contortions were you making first on one foot, then the
+other?
+
+Cadwell:
+I was ogling a lady in the second balcony that I believe I know.
+
+Bendish:
+Do you call that ogling? Oh, at least I am not so gauche, now I know
+how to ogle. To shrug, turn one's head, kiss the tip of your gloves
+very tenderly, that's called ogling, right? Well, did she respond to
+this ogling?
+
+Cadwell:
+So well that I went up to her lodge, where I stayed but a moment with
+her because of a jealous husband who put his head through the curtain
+to find us. We didn't wait for him so we went to another lodge where
+we watched him quarrel with a woman who had taken our original seats.
+I believe he even struck her with his fist. This caused such a
+disturbance that the music stopped. We didn't want to wait for the end
+of the adventure. So I took her home. Don't you find that funny?
+
+Bendish:
+Not at all. Of all this, I only like the ogling part. I intend to
+study under you. You seem to me to be an expert at this work.
+
+Cadwell:
+Me? I am only a school boy. I will show you a chap at the Opera who
+can put the whole stage down.
+
+Bendish:
+Isn't he the one who's always sweet, who believes all the ladies are
+in love with him, who gushes, sighs,--and who can be heard from the
+back of the theatre.
+
+Cadwell:
+You've got him.
+
+Bendish:
+Ah, yes, I know him. Is he a lively fellow, too?
+
+Cadwell:
+He says so.
+
+Bendish:
+Is he rich?
+
+Cadwell:
+Why?
+
+Bendish:
+That's what I call lucky. Ah, I could be, too, since it's so easy. I
+intend to return to the Opera to ogle. (looking about him) Isn't there
+anybody here who likes ogling?
+
+Cadwell:
+Shut up, you are so stupid.
+
+Bendish: (hearing a knocking)
+Someone's knocking at the little stairway.
+
+Cadwell:
+Who can it be?
+
+Bendish:
+I don't know. Shall I see?
+
+Cadwell:
+See. At this hour I won't wait on anyone.
+
+(Bendish goes to the door and after an instant returns)
+
+Bendish:
+They ask to speak to you and they want to know if you are alone.
+
+Cadwell:
+Who is this fellow?
+
+Bendish:
+He won't say. I've never seen him before.
+
+Cadwell:
+His name?
+
+Bendish:
+He won't say. Send him off, sir. For fear of a mischance. He doesn't
+look right.
+
+Cadwell:
+You say that you've never seen him before?
+
+Bendish:
+Right. But his mysterious demeanor, a pushed down hat, a cape that
+hides his nose--how the devil can I tell?
+
+Cadwell:
+Is it his cape or his face that doesn't look right?
+
+Bendish:
+Sir, there's talk of thieves. Suppose he's one?
+
+Cadwell:
+Aren't there two of us?
+
+Bendish:
+We are only one all the same.
+
+Cadwell:
+Do what I tell you.
+
+(Bendish goes and returns with Captain Slice)
+
+Bendish:
+Enter, sir.
+
+Slice:
+Is it you, sir, they call Mr. Cadwell?
+
+Cadwell:
+Yes, sir.
+
+Slice:
+Can we be overheard?
+
+Cadwell:
+Not if you don't speak very loud.
+
+Slice:
+Would you please have your man retire?
+
+Bendish: (frightened and glad to go)
+Willingly.
+
+Cadwell:
+Stay! (to Slice) Sir, Bendish is discreet. One can say anything before
+him.
+
+Slice:
+It's a matter of some consequence.
+
+Cadwell:
+I hide nothing from him--
+
+Slice:
+If you like, but--
+
+Cadwell: (interrupting Slice)
+Sir, in that case, I prefer not to know what you have to tell me.
+
+Slice:
+As you prefer it thus, sir. In short, a widow lady of the finest
+quality--
+
+Bendish: (aside)
+I can breathe again. For this we have courage.
+
+Slice:
+A lady of quality, I tell you wishes to meet you in an hour.
+
+Cadwell:
+Who is she?
+
+Slice:
+Far from telling you her name, sir, you will not speak to her except
+on certain conditions--which perhaps you will not accept.
+
+Cadwell:
+We must see.
+
+Slice:
+Will you permit yourself to be blindfolded while I take you to her?
+Also, permit your hands to be tied?
+
+Cadwell:
+Why all these precautions?
+
+Slice:
+Sir, she wishes it so. You have too much wit, sir, not to see as well
+as I, that she intends to know the state of your heart before
+discovering herself to you. I say too much perhaps, and overstay my
+commission.
+
+Cadwell:
+Are you something to her?
+
+Slice:
+Sir, I have nothing to say to you about that.
+
+Cadwell:
+I know who it is.
+
+Slice:
+Perhaps.
+
+Cadwell:
+Is she a brunette?
+
+Slice:
+She could be.
+
+Cadwell:
+Large green eyes?
+
+Slice:
+Getting closer.
+
+Cadwell:
+Mouth neither large nor small?
+
+Slice:
+I say no more.
+
+Cadwell:
+Pretty hand?
+
+Slice:
+I won't reply.
+
+Cadwell:
+Admirable teeth? The nose-- Come, come, my boy, I know who she is. (to
+Bendish) Bendish, she's the one at the ball. Yes, it's she for sure.
+(to Slice) Yes, my boy, I will go. Yes, I will go, I tell you. Oho,
+there my friend, admit to me that I have discovered her. Doesn't she
+lodge near the Arsenal? Eh? If you please? Oh, I will go on my word.
+I've figured her out, right?
+
+Slice: (hesitating to respond)
+Sir . . .
+
+Cadwell:
+Oh, you are stupid, my poor heart, I am more clever than you. In what
+direction? At what time? You haven't said.
+
+Slice:
+In an hour. From wherever you wish.
+
+Cadwell:
+In the Palace Courtyard, in half an hour.
+
+Slice:
+No, that's too soon.
+
+Cadwell:
+Well, in an hour.
+
+Slice:
+That's fine.
+
+(Exit Slice)
+
+Cadwell:
+It's Lady Julia--without a doubt.
+
+Bendish:
+Oh, I believe it. But didn't you promise to have supper with Laura?
+
+Cadwell:
+I will return. That doesn't worry me. What worries me is what I will
+do here for another hour. (looking at his watch) It's not yet-- For
+me, I cannot remain here a minute longer. I have to do something.
+
+Bendish:
+The time you employ doing nothing is the time you employ the least
+badly.
+
+Cadwell:
+And you--you never are more witty than when I tell you to shut up.
+(Making Bendish examine his face) Tell me--how do I look? This jerkin
+appears to me to have a short waist. What do you think?
+
+Bendish:
+Effectively,--I don't know. Yes, you're right.
+
+Cadwell:
+Give me another.
+
+Bendish:
+Which one?
+
+Cadwell:
+Whichever you please. Bring me the one I wore yesterday.
+
+Bendish:
+Fie!
+
+Cadwell:
+Why?
+
+Bendish:
+It won't go well with you. Keep this one.
+
+Cadwell:
+I don't like it.
+
+Bendish:
+The other one makes your shoulders too large.
+
+Cadwell:
+Never mind.
+
+Bendish:
+When you want something, you want it.
+
+Cadwell:
+What talk! Are you going?
+
+Bendish: (hesitating to reply)
+Sir?
+
+Cadwell:
+What?
+
+Bendish:
+You are going to be angry with me.
+
+Cadwell:
+What's the scamp trying to say? Are you going to give me my jerkin?
+
+Bendish: (half crying)
+Sir.
+
+Cadwell:
+Well?
+
+Bendish:
+I spilled tallow on it trying to clean it.
+
+Cadwell:
+Where is it?
+
+Bendish:
+I took it to have the grease taken off before I brought it back.
+
+Cadwell:
+Go get it right away.
+
+Bendish:
+Sir, it won't be ready.
+
+Cadwell:
+Bring it to me in whatever condition it is.
+
+Bendish:
+Sir.
+
+Cadwell:
+What now? Will you go?
+
+Bendish:
+Sir.
+
+Cadwell:
+What now? Will you go?
+
+Bendish:
+Sir, I must tell you the truth. I loaned it to a student for a
+tragedy.
+
+Cadwell:
+My jerkin to a college boy? To a child?
+
+Bendish:
+No, sir. He's a big fellow, handsome, well made--like you, and he
+plays the king in a tragedy.
+
+Cadwell:
+Ah, truly, I am pleased to know that you loan my clothes. But the
+moment this tragedy is finished get it back the very instant. (Seeing
+Bendish hesitate) What then? You won't do what I tell you?
+
+Bendish: (hesitating)
+Sir?
+
+Cadwell:
+Ah, I see what it is. You put it in pawn, correct?
+
+Bendish:
+Sir, you've divined it. As you never give me my wages or advance money
+to me, I've had recourse to prompt expedients.
+
+Cadwell:
+You will pay me for this, I promise you. Give me the red one, Bendish.
+(Bendish goes into Cadwell's room) But look at this little scoundrel.
+Put my clothes in pawn.
+
+Bendish: (returning with a red jerkin and presenting it to Cadwell)
+Here it is.
+
+Cadwell: (not putting on the jerkin that Bendish brings him but asking
+for different garments, as soon as they are brought)
+Ah, I know how to live, I assure you. Another wig. I will teach you to
+play such tricks. Another hat! But just watch and see, I beg you. A
+mirror. Who has ever heard of such a thing. A scamp that I have
+showered benefits on. The orange flower.-- To abuse me so easily. Ah,
+you don't know me yet, I see that clearly. A handkerchief. You will
+repent, mark my words. (listening to rapping) Go open up. You will see
+a little the difference there is.
+
+(Bendish opens the door and introduces Mr. Martin)
+
+(Enter Martin, holding a scarf)
+
+Bendish:
+Mr. Martin, your scarf--
+
+Cadwell:
+Ah, Mr. Martin, your servant. You see me in a rage.
+
+Martin:
+Sir, it's not my fault.
+
+Cadwell: (to Bendish)
+Will you take this mirror? (Bendish holds the mirror for him)
+
+Martin:
+I've come--
+
+Cadwell:
+I am very glad to know you--
+
+Martin:
+I'm in despair--
+
+Cadwell: (to Bendish)
+I jut remembered.
+
+Martin:
+I must tell you--
+
+Cadwell: (to Bendish)
+A cad--
+
+Martin: (astonished)
+Sir!
+
+Cadwell:
+An insolent--
+
+Martin:
+Sir!
+
+Cadwell:
+An impudent.
+
+Martin:
+Sir.
+
+Cadwell:
+A rogue, a cheat--
+
+Martin:
+Oh, sir!
+
+Cadwell:
+Don't you see that I am talking to this scoundrel!
+
+Bendish: (low to Martin)
+Want to be in it for half?
+
+Martin: (low to Bendish)
+No, I won't play such a rotten game.
+
+Cadwell: (to Bendish)
+I believe you are joking
+
+Bendish: (pointing to Martin)
+Ask if I haven't spoken--
+
+Cadwell: (to Martin)
+There, let's see. Do you have my scarf?
+
+Martin: (displaying the scarf)
+Here it is.
+
+Cadwell: (examining it)
+It's very pretty. How much did you pay him?
+
+Martin:
+This morning a masked lady in a chaise came to my shop to purchase it
+from me. It was only ten o'clock. I believed that you would not be
+awake. Another lady, also masked paid my wife for it. My wife went
+out. A third purchased it from my daughter. What shall I do with this
+money? I don't know who gave it to me?
+
+Cadwell:
+Make me two more scarves.
+
+Martin:
+Same kind?
+
+Cadwell:
+No, different. You have some wit, to adjust things like that.
+
+Martin:
+Fine, sir, you will have them in the morning.
+
+(Exit Martin)
+
+Bendish:
+Sir, in favor of so many scarves, won't you pardon me for a little
+jerkin?
+
+Cadwell:
+I will pardon you, but if ever in your life--I am going to spend a few
+minutes with this little shop girl near here, waiting for the hour.
+
+Bendish:
+Shall I go to find you?
+
+Cadwell:
+No, I have no need of you. I must be alone. Didn't they say that?
+
+(Exit Cadwell)
+
+Bendish:
+Plague! At least I wasn't so stupid as to give him the jerkin he asked
+for! It's a lucky jerkin for lucky men. They usually are employed in
+great matters, and I intend to use it in a great affair. For once in
+my life I intend to know what it is to be a man of fortune. I already
+know how to ogle, as for small talk I know that. I have only to dress
+quickly. (taking Cadwell's clothes from an armoire, and dressing with
+difficulty for Cadwell's clothes are a bit tight) Oh, let's begin with
+this divine jerkin. Plague! It's tight. Oh, who cares! A snip with the
+scissors and two or three stitches with a needle are no great matter.
+All right hips--get smaller. No good. What's the difference. I will
+say that they brought it this way. You will see that I will start a
+fashion of high hips. I have been seen before with big shoulders and
+elbows in arrear. Here's a jerkin which seems very easy for me to put
+on. These cursed tailors put the buttons so far from the button holes.
+I will burst. Well, who would not suffer for good luck. Was ever a man
+better dressed? Large head, small waist, low hips. Dammit, I intend to
+forget that Cadwell exists. Damnation, I almost forgot the best part.
+Orange flower water. Can one have good fortune without orange flower
+water? (he takes a flask from the toilet and sprays himself) It seems
+to me I have all the attributes of a lucky man. God protect us from
+mishap!
+
+CURTAIN
+
+
+
+ACT V. The same. An hour later.
+
+Jenny:
+Where the devil is Olivia? Where is Worthy? Worthy hasn't returned
+yet. What is all this? On my oath, I am going crazy? I take this
+business to heart worse than if it were my own.
+
+(Enter Worthy)
+
+Jenny:
+Eh! Where are you coming from?
+
+Worthy:
+I've been to Arabella and then Selina.
+
+Jenny:
+To do what?
+
+Worthy:
+To bring them to witness the comedy. Didn't you tell me it was
+necessary for them to be present to prevent Laura from relapsing?
+
+Jenny:
+Yes, but it's more important to know if the comedy is going to go on.
+
+Worthy:
+Since Slice hasn't returned, all is going well. He's thought of
+everything without a doubt.
+
+Jenny: (derisively)
+Oh, there, there, everything's going fine. Nothing could spoil it.
+
+Worthy:
+What's Laura doing?
+
+Jenny:
+Oh, my word. She's quite resolved never to see Cadwell again if he
+falls into the trap.
+
+(Enter Slice)
+Slice:
+Sir?
+
+Worthy:
+Ah, you here? Well?
+
+Jenny:
+What have you done?
+
+Slice:
+He's undoing himself. He's sure he knows the imaginary person I told
+him of. I didn't want to undeceive him since he's so sure of it.
+
+Jenny:
+He's going to let you blindfold him?
+
+Slice:
+Everything, I tell you.
+
+Jenny:
+Ah, the funny dodo. His name will become famous.
+
+Slice:
+He will meet me in the Park in a few minutes.
+
+Worthy:
+It isn't far. Better for you to wait for him. Hurry! Have you a
+carriage?
+
+Slice:
+I've everything that's necessary.
+
+Jenny:
+If by chance he tries to tear off his blindfold?
+
+Slice:
+Don't worry about anything. Two of us will prevent him.
+
+Jenny:
+Get going, then.
+
+(Exit Slice, then enter Laura and Olivia)
+
+Laura: (to Jenny)
+Well--is he coming then?
+
+Jenny:
+Yes, madam.
+
+Laura:
+On the conditions imposed on him?
+
+Jenny:
+Yes, madam.
+
+Laura:
+I have trouble believing it.
+
+Worthy:
+It's your tenderness speaking for him again, madam.
+
+Laura:
+Don't speak of tenderness anymore, Worthy. But permit me to doubt what
+I haven't seen.
+
+Worthy:
+Do you really need this additional proof, after all that has passed?
+
+Laura:
+My God, Worthy, I am not taking his side. But still all that's
+happened doesn't absolutely prove he's guilty.
+
+Olivia:
+My brother always persists at the wrong time.
+
+Laura:
+Not at all, madam, and we cannot both be right.
+
+Jenny:
+The silly goose will not give up his intrigues.
+
+Laura:
+Shut up, Jenny. These jokes don't please me, understand?
+
+(Enter Arabella and Selina)
+
+Laura:
+Ah, ladies, I am delighted to see you here. You couldn't come at a
+better time.
+
+Arabella: (to Laura)
+Why, madam?
+
+Selina:
+Eh? How's that madam?
+
+Jenny:
+We are going to trap a goose. Don't say anything.
+
+Laura: (to Arabella)
+And above all, you, madam.
+
+Arabella:
+If it's something regarding Cadwell, as Worthy told me, (pointing to
+Selina) this lady can take a greater part than I.
+
+Olivia:
+Selina is also a rival of Laura's?
+
+Selina:
+Me? I don't know what they're talking about?
+
+Jenny:
+Come, come, madam, admit the debt. There's no one here Cadwell has not
+deceived.
+
+Worthy:
+Truly, it merits a public punishment.
+
+Laura:
+You don't take it badly, sir. But if things don't work out as you plan
+won't his glory be greater?
+
+Selina:
+I don't know what to say about it at all.
+
+Olivia: (pulling Selina into a corner)
+I am going to instruct you, madam.
+
+Laura:
+But, madam, if Cadwell doesn't come what good is it?
+
+Jenny:
+Well! What a misfortune! Madam, is not an interested party?
+
+Arabella: (going to Selina and Olivia) I intend to know all about
+this, too. They've told me quite imperfectly.
+
+(The three talk)
+
+Laura: (to Worthy)
+Worthy, the hour's passing. Cadwell, isn't coming. I admit to you that
+I won't be angry if he makes fun of you.
+
+Worthy:
+At least I will have the consolation of knowing he deserves the
+tenderness you have for him, madam. But I don't see anything to make
+you hopeful. It is not yet time.
+
+(Olivia, Arabella, and Selina join Worthy and Laura)
+
+Arabella: (to Olivia)
+Really, this is very pleasant.
+
+Olivia:
+Will he be stupid enough to chance it?
+
+Jenny:
+Oh, indeed yes.
+
+Laura:
+I doubt it, Jenny. A man with the character you ascribe to him would
+be more careful.
+
+Jenny:
+Unless another woman holds him off, I cannot conceive what would
+restrain him.
+
+Laura:
+Worthy, he's not coming. (to Olivia) Madam, he's not coming. (To
+Selina) Madam, do you believe he will come?
+
+Selina:
+I truly don't know, madam.
+
+Jenny:
+At the beginning, didn't he keep every rendez-vous you gave him?
+
+Selina:
+Oh, shut up, Jenny. I am angry with myself.
+
+Olivia: (hearing someone enter)
+I hear a noise.
+
+(Enter Slice)
+
+Slice:
+Snuff the lights.
+
+(Jenny snuffs the lights)
+
+Laura: (aside)
+I am lost.
+
+Slice:
+My men are keeping him in the antechamber. Shall he be brought in?
+
+Laura:
+Yes, let him come in. I intend to see him. Who will speak to him? I
+admit I lack the strength to do it myself.
+
+Worthy:
+Is there need to speak to him? Aren't you satisfied madam? Besides, he
+knows your voice.
+
+Jenny:
+Doesn't he know the voices of all the ladies here? By heart, by all
+the devils! This is the worst of it. Wait--I can change my voice. Let
+him enter. Do you wish it, madam?
+
+Laura:
+Do what you wish.
+
+(Slice brings in Bendish dressed like his master, blindfolded)
+
+Slice: (to Bendish)
+We are entered into her apartment. You have only to wait to be happy.
+
+Bendish:
+I've been here before, my boy. I assure you that it is only out of
+consideration for you, and because I don't wish you to lose your
+promised reward, that I am not at this very moment calming two
+irritated mistresses.
+
+Slice:
+I am much obliged to you. Remember, that the least effort you make to
+see madam may cost you your life.
+
+Bendish:
+Oh, I am not worried. Come, come, my friend, I am accustomed to these
+types of adventures, and we have brought off more perilous ones than
+this.
+
+Slice:
+You are at present in her boudoir, and I leave you alone with her.
+
+Jenny: (low to all but Slice and Bendish)
+Silence, don't make the least noise.
+
+Bendish: (aside)
+Watch out for trouble!
+
+Jenny: (aside)
+Nice beginning.
+
+Bendish:
+Well, angel, here I am.
+
+Laura: (aside)
+The traitor!
+
+Jenny:
+Keep such sweet talk for when you know me better. Listen before
+responding to the things I have to say to you.
+
+Bendish:
+Plague! You take me for a great fool! I intend to prove to you I merit
+the choice your heart has made. For I believe you didn't send for me
+to tell me you hate me.
+
+Jenny:
+You won't know my true feelings if you don't clear up the uncertainty
+I am in at once.
+
+Bendish:
+Come, my little heart, my queen, let's not amuse ourselves with
+twaddle. Look at these stooping airs, this figure. When we know each
+other a little better I will ogle you.
+
+Laura: (aside)
+This cannot be Cadwell!
+
+Arabella: (aside, half voice)
+No, surely not.
+
+Bendish:
+Who just said I am not Cadwell. You lied.
+
+Olivia: (low to Worthy)
+Brother, it isn't him.
+
+Worthy: (low)
+I don't know what to make of it.
+
+Selina (low)
+It's not him.
+
+Jenny: (to Laura in a half voice)
+Madam, it's Bendish.
+
+Bendish:
+What do you mean, Bendish. Who's that then, my little friend?
+
+Jenny: (low to Laura)
+It's him, madam.
+
+Worthy: (half voice)
+A stick.
+
+Bendish:
+What do you mean a stick? Madam, I will dishonor you.
+
+(Jenny looks for and finds a stick)
+
+Worthy:
+Quickly!
+
+(Jenny beats Bendish with the stick)
+
+Bendish: (trying to get off his blindfold)
+Assault! Again? Oh, murder. They're trying to assassinate me.
+
+Worthy:
+What rogue! Are you playing with us?
+
+Laura:
+Well, wasn't I right? Come Worthy, stop deluding yourself. Cadwell
+loves me and to mock you better he sends his valet. (to Arabella and
+Selina) What do you say ladies?
+
+Arabella:
+I say it isn't astonishing, for he's never been caught in his life.
+
+Laura: (to Selina)
+And you, madam?
+
+Selina:
+That he will repent.
+
+Olivia: (to Laura)
+For myself, I say nothing.
+
+Jenny:
+And I, I always said he was a clever cheat.
+
+Worthy:
+There's something in this that I don't understand, but I will soon
+find out. (To Bendish) Will you talk?
+
+Bendish: (hesitating)
+Sir?
+
+Worthy:
+Come on, quickly.
+
+Bendish: (still hesitating)
+Sir?
+
+Worthy: (putting his hand on his sword and menacing him)
+I will kill you.
+
+Bendish: (throwing himself on his knees)
+Spare a lucky man.
+
+Worthy:
+Come on, now, admit it. What do you say about all this?
+
+Bendish: (hesitating and getting up)
+Whatever you wish, sir.
+
+Worthy:
+Well?
+
+Bendish:
+The curiosity to be a lucky man and the ease that I found in playing
+the role of one, made me try,--as you see.
+
+Worthy:
+Ah, rogue! And how did you do it?
+
+Bendish:
+I told my master the rendez-vous was changed to ten p.m. and I came at
+nine in his place.
+
+Worthy:
+Then it still isn't ruined. It's not quite ten o'clock. Slice, go back
+to the Park. You've taken the valet for the master. You will find
+Cadwell-- Bring him as you did this one.
+
+Slice:
+If I find him, I will be back here in no time.
+
+(Exit Slice)
+
+Worthy:
+Madam, Cadwell will not be so faithful as you imagine.
+
+Laura: (to Bendish)
+Bendish, do you think he will come?
+
+Bendish:
+Madam, I don't know anything about it. But if in my life, I get
+lucky--
+
+Jenny: (interrupting him)
+Things don't always succeed.
+
+Bendish:
+Experience makes me doubt a bit. But at least I know the rap that
+rapped me so distinctly. If it's this little rapper, she's devilishly
+strong.
+
+Jenny:
+It was me. I ought to have done it to you a long time ago.
+
+Bendish:
+I thank you for your favors.
+
+Arabella: (to Laura)
+If Cadwell's going to come we won't be long in knowing. The Park isn't
+far from here.
+
+Selina:
+I will be very irritated not to see the end of this adventure,
+although I preferred him to a person who wasn't very disagreeable.
+
+Laura: (to Jenny)
+Jenny, see if someone isn't coming down there.
+
+Bendish:
+I will go to hurry him if you wish, madam.
+
+Worthy: (to Laura)
+Madam, don't let him leave, if you please.
+
+Laura: (to Jenny)
+Someone's coming now.
+
+(Jenny goes to the door)
+
+Bendish: (aside)
+I see that he won't be here too soon.
+
+Jenny: (returning)
+Madam, (to Laura) our man sent me to tell you he will be here in a
+moment. He's taking several detours so he cannot judge the distance.
+
+Laura:
+Come on, it's over. I will be absolutely cured, and I think I will
+never speak to him again in my life.
+
+Selina:
+Although you'd like a confession from me, know that I have more
+fortitude than you and that I have forgotten him more easily than I
+came to love him.
+
+Arabella:
+As for me, I haven't got such a strong soul.
+
+Selina: (to Olivia)
+But you, madam, he loves you.
+
+Olivia:
+Like the others.
+
+Bendish:
+I assure you that you are the only woman in the world of whom I never
+heard him say a bad thing.
+
+Laura:
+And of me, Bendish?
+
+Bendish:
+Oh, for you, he loves you, madam.
+
+Laura:
+Who can doubt it after this. I am going to speak to him myself. I
+won't bother to change my voice.
+
+Worthy:
+Madam.
+
+Laura: (interrupting him)
+I beg you, let me do it. I intend to speak to him. (to Olivia,
+Arabella, and Selina making them sit in a corner) Ladies, be seated.
+(to Worthy, also placing him to the side) Worthy, you sit back, too.
+
+Worthy:
+Tell Bendish to be silent.
+
+Bendish:
+I don't intend to say a word. (to Laura) Do you treat all lucky men
+the way I was treated?
+
+Laura:
+It is only a traitor who deserves it, a liar like your master.
+
+Bendish:
+I will have my revenge.
+
+Jenny: (low to Laura, leading in Cadwell)
+Madam, here he is.
+
+Laura:
+Everybody retire.
+
+(All go to their places. Jenny and Bendish beside each other. Enter
+Cadwell blindfolded.)
+
+Laura: (to Cadwell in a disguised voice)
+Here's an adventure that resembles those in a novel. Sir, I believe
+you won't find the precautions I have taken bad. Your reputation is
+bad enough as regards women so that I cannot see you otherwise.
+Nature, which perhaps has not protected me very well, engages me to
+know the state of your heart before disclosing mine. Some attentions
+paid to me persuade me that I am pretty, that I have wit, that I am
+always done justice. I've never found it in me to make a man
+unfaithful to his beloved. Even when my vanity flatters me to the
+point of making me believe I could, the goodness of my heart dissuades
+me from doing it. My pleasures do not augment from the shame of
+others. Nor does a false one cease to be false. Speak then sincerely,
+if you can. Are you free?
+
+Cadwell:
+You will judge my sincerity by the confession you are about to hear. I
+don't have a free heart, madam. I don't wish to deceive you: I'm in
+love and I have been for a long time. You see at least that my
+behaviour gives the lie to the reputation ascribed to me.
+
+Worthy: (low to Olivia)
+He recognizes her.
+
+Olivia:
+Shut up.
+
+Laura:
+You love, Cadwell? For a long time you say?
+
+Cadwell:
+Yes, I love, madam. And with a love that will end only with my life.
+
+Laura:
+But this so tender love--isn't it offended by the steps you are
+taking?
+
+Cadwell:
+I will have a hard time telling you what made me come here.
+
+Laura:
+Really, I don't know how to stop myself from praising you. If I cannot
+win you at least I have the pleasure of knowing you are not such as
+you have been painted. But Cadwell, can I obtain the bounty from you
+at the price of my tenderness?
+
+Cadwell:
+There's nothing I wouldn't do for you so long as it doesn't injure my
+passion.
+
+Worthy: (low to Selina)
+He recognizes her, I tell you.
+
+Selina: (low)
+Eh, shut up.
+
+Laura: (to Cadwell)
+I wouldn't want you to do such an extraordinary thing. I don't want to
+find you even indiscreet. But Cadwell, if I divine your mistress, I
+want you to admit it to me. Is it Arabella?
+
+Cadwell:
+Ah, madam, of whom are you talking to me?
+
+Laura:
+What makes you recoil so strongly? Has she no merit?
+
+Cadwell:
+Ah, madam, let's not discuss Arabella in detail. We will find so
+little of Nature, and so many things borrowed. Please, madam, let's
+not talk of it any more. There are some people that should never be
+spoken of.
+
+Arabella: (low to Selina and almost rising)
+I don't know how I can hold back.
+
+Selina:
+Wait till the end.
+
+Laura: (to Cadwell)
+There's a rumor all over the place that you love Selina.
+
+Cadwell:
+She's a 'adwoman.
+
+Bendish: (to Worthy)
+That pays her off.
+
+Laura:
+Oh, I have divined it. It's Olivia who lives with Laura.
+
+Cadwell:
+Oh, madam do you know her? Distrust her. She's got the most wicked
+disposition.
+
+Laura:
+Name her yourself then?
+
+Cadwell:
+Ah, madam, if you knew here as I do, you would easily pardon my
+insensibility to you.
+
+Laura:
+Is she witty?
+
+Cadwell:
+Yes, madam, she is that. But no part of heir wit is not fully grown.
+It seems that hers only serves to discover it in others.
+
+Laura:
+Why that's a pretty character indeed. She's beautiful without a doubt.
+
+Cadwell:
+Ah, don't engage me to paint her portrait. I couldn't do it without
+offending you. And you, never having seen her, I cannot tell you how I
+find her the most adorable woman in the world.
+
+Laura: (sighing)
+She ought to be content to appear so to your eyes.
+
+Cadwell: (trying to take off his blindfold)
+Let's not pretend further and permit me the joy of seeing the only
+person with whom I wish to live.
+
+Laura: (stopping him)
+Stop!
+
+Cadwell:
+Eh, madam, what good are all these delays. I know you, I know who you
+are.
+
+Laura:
+Wait. To whom do you think you are speaking?
+
+Cadwell:
+To you, madam.
+
+Laura:
+I am not Laura.
+
+Cadwell:
+And it isn't to her that I address my vows. And I must tell you only
+the hope that it could be Lady Julia made me come here. If it isn't to
+her that I speak, I shall return without seeing you.
+
+Laura:
+You don't love Laura any more?
+
+Cadwell:
+No, madam, I never loved Laura.
+
+Laura:
+You don't love me, liar! You dare to say that to my face! Eh! Why did
+you deceive me then? (tearing off his blindfold)
+
+Bendish:
+This isn't funny unless accompanied by blows from a stick. That would
+be much more pleasant to me.
+
+Arabella:
+Goodbye, Mr. Cadwell. I thank you for the kind sentiments you have for
+me.
+
+Olivia: (to Cadwell)
+As for me, I am satisfied.
+
+Selina:
+Adieu, Cadwell.
+
+Jenny: (to Bendish)
+Adieu, Mr. Bendish.
+
+Laura: (to Worthy)
+Mr. Worthy, will you take my hand?
+
+Worthy:
+Will I indeed!
+
+Laura:
+I give it to you. (to Cadwell) Adieu, false one. Don't ever see me
+again.
+
+(Exit Laura, Worthy, Olivia, Arabella, Selina, Slice, and Jenny to
+Laura's apartment.
+
+Bendish:
+Come, sir! Hadn't we better be on our way. We will soon be evicted.
+Above all, let's change our names and the part of town we live in. We
+are denounced hereabouts like counterfeit money.
+
+Cadwell: (aside, overwhelmed with astonishment and confusion)
+Just Heavens!
+
+Bendish:
+It this would only teach him.
+
+CURTAIN
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Lucky Man, by Michel Baron
+
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