Scene III
Marion, Didier, Saverny
SAVERNY (jumping into the room, sword in hand).
Upon my soul! ’Tis a strange chivalry
To save my life and push me from the door!
The door—that is to say, the window! No,
They shall not say one of my family
Was bravely rescued by a nobleman
And did not in return say “Marquis—” Pray,
What is your name?
Didier.
Didier.
SAVERNY.
Didier—of what?
Didier.
Didier, of nothing! People kill you, and
I help you—that is all! Now go!
SAVERNY.
Indeed!
That’s your way, is it? Why not have let
Those traitors kill me? ’Twould have pleased me more.
For without you I’d be a dead man now.
Six thieves against me! Dead! Of course! What else?
Six daggers against one thin sword—
[Perceiving Marion, who has been trying to avoid him.
Oh, ho!
You’re not alone! At last I understand!
I’m robbing you of pleasure. Pardon me!
[Aside.] I’d like to see the lady!
[Approaches Marion, who is trembling: he recognizes her.
It is you!
[Indicating Didier.
Then he’s the one!
MARION (low).
Hush! You will ruin all!
SAVERNY (bowing).
Madame!
MARION (low).
I love for the first time!
DIDIER (aside).
‘Sdeath!
That man is looking at her with bold eyes.
[He overturns the lamp with a blow.
SAVERNY.
You put the lamp out, sir?
Didier.
It would be wise
For us to leave together, and at once.
SAVERNY.
So be it, then! I follow you!
[To Marion, whom he salutes profoundly.
Madame,
Farewell!
DIDIER (aside).
What a rare coxcomb!
[Aloud to Saverny.] Come, sir, come!
SAVERNY.
You’re brusk, but I’m in debt to you for life.
If ever you should need fraternal friendship,
Count upon me, Marquis de Saverny,
Paris, Hôtel de Nesle.
Didier.
Enough, sir! Come!
[Aside.] To see her thus examined by a fool!
[They go out by the balcony. The voice of Didier is heard outside.
Your road lies that way. Mine lies here!