University of Virginia Library

Scene IV.

Roxane alone. Two sisters, for a moment.
ROXANE

Ah! what a beauty in September's close! My sorrow's eased. April's joy dazzled it, But autumn wins it with her dying calm. (She seats herself at the embroidery frame. Two sisters come out of the house, and bring a large armchair under the tree) There comes the famous armchair where he sits, Dear faithful friend!

SISTER MARTHA

It is the parlor's best!

ROXANE

Thanks, sister.

(The sisters go)

He'll be here now.

(She seats herself. A clock strikes)

The hour strikes. --My silks?--Why, now, the hour's struck! How strange To be behind his time, at last, to-day! Perhaps the portress--where's my thimble?. . . Here!--Is preaching to him.

(A pause)

Yes, she must be preaching! Surely he must come soon!--Ah, a dead leaf!--

(She brushes off the leaf from her work)

Nothing, besides, could--scissors?--In my bag! --Could hinder him. . .

A SISTER
(coming to the steps)

Monsieur de Bergerac.