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CHARACTERS in order of appearance: Young Julien The Bishop Julien Sorel A Servant Monsieur Reynal Madame Reynal (Louise) Alphonse Fouque Father Pirard Marquis de la Mole Mathilde Count Norbert First Gent Second Gent Several Masks Mons de Croisenois (not a speaking part) Count Altamira Prince Arceli (not a speaking part) Reactionary Gentleman Jailer Priest
The Young Julien enters, trembling, carrying a miter.
Julien (to himself)
It is my duty to speak. (he advances, the Bishop turns)
Bishop
Well, Monsieur, is it ready yet?
Julien
Yes, Excellency.
Bishop
I need it immediately. (he places it on) There, it will stay. (he
adjusts it, steps aside a little, practices several more benedictions)
What do you think, Monsieur Julien? Does it look right?
Julien
Perfect, Excellency.
Bishop
Too far back, perhaps? That would look silly. But, it mustn't fall
over the eyes like a visor either.
Julien
I think it's very good.
Bishop
The King is used to venerable clergymen. I mustn't look frivolous
because of my age.
Julien
To be a Bishop, and so young. How clever you must be.
Bishop
It isn't age that makes a servant of God. (pause) The King is here
to pay his respects to a relic. But make no mistake, he is here to pay
his respects to us . . . the clergy. Never forget, Julien, that you
are about to see one of the greatest kings on earth on his knees
before the servants of God. These servants are weak, persecuted,
martyred in this world, but triumphant in Heaven . . . and if we are
careful . . . here on Earth as well.
Julien
On Earth as it is in Heaven.
(Julien crosses himself, awestruck, as the curtain descends.)
Julien and his father, Sorel, enter.
Sorel (to a servant)
We are here to see the mayor. (the servant hesitates) On his
invitation . . . on business.
Servant Please wait. I'll inform Monsieur Reynal.
(The servant enters the house.)
Sorel (collaring his son)
Answer me without lying, if you can, Bookworm. How did you get to
know his wife? When did you speak to her?
Julien
I don't know her. I've only seen her at Church.
Sorel
Ah, but you must have stared at her, didn't you? Scum.
Julien
Never. I only see God when I'm in Church. (there is just a shade,
only a shade of insincerity in this protest)
Sorel
Does God wear petticoats? (pause) There's something behind this.
Why should the mayor choose you as a tutor for his children? But, I'll
never find out from you, you crafty little sneak.
Julien
I'd still like to know what I'm going to get for it.
Sorel
Board, lodging, clothing, plus three hundred a year. Isn't that
enough for you, my fine gentleman?
Julien
I won't be a servant.
Sorel
Who said that, you idiot? You think I'd let my son be a servant?
Julien
I won't eat with the servants.
Sorel
Shut up and leave this to me, you greedy little bastard.
Julien
I'll die before I'll eat with the servants.
(Madame and Monsieur Reynal enter from the house. Reynal is much
older than his pretty wife.)
Reynal (to his wife)
Let him boast about his carriage. He doesn't have a tutor for his
children.
Madame Reynal
Perhaps he'll steal this one from us.
Reynal
Then you approve of my plans? All right, then, it's settled.
Madame Reynal (slyly)
Good Heavens, dear, how quickly you make up your mind.
Reynal
Strength of character. It's going to cost us, but we must maintain
our position. (approaching Sorel) Welcome to my house, Monsieur Sorel.
This is your son Julien? Charmed I'm sure. (Julien makes an awkward
bow, but stands mute) Your father has told you of the arrangements
made for you? (Julien tries to speak but words fail him, he contents
himself with a murderous look) Monsieur Sorel, this is Madame de
Reynal, my wife.
Sorel
Enchante.
Reynal (to his wife)
Why don't you discuss your orders with our young tutor, while I
arrange matters with his father.
(Julien and Madame Reynal withdraw to the other end of the garden.)
Reynal
Everything is settled satisfactorily?
Sorel (churlishly)
Nothing is settled.
(Reynal and Sorel mime a ferocious argument.)
Madame Reynal
Do you mean to say you know Latin, Monsieur?
Julien (defensive, ironic)
That is why I've come as a tutor, Madame!
Madame Reynal
You won't beat the children?
Julien
Beat them? Why should I do that?
Madame Reynal
You will promise me to be kind to them, not to scold them?
Julien (struck by her beauty at last)
I'll obey you in everything.
Madame Reynal
How old are you, Monsieur?
Julien
Nineteen.
Madame Reynal
My eldest son is eleven. You can reason with him. His father
slapped him once and I was sick for a week.
Julien
I swear, before God, I will never beat your children.
Madame Reynal
What's your name, Monsieur?
Julien (struggling to get it out)
Julien Sorel. I've very nervous about entering a strange
house. I crave your protection. I hope you will forgive my many
mistakes.
(Madame Reynal and Julien continue their conversation in mime.)
Sorel
If I take him back, he will keep this coat you promise to give
him?
Reynal
Of course.
Sorel
Now, about the money.
Reynal
You know my offer. You accepted yesterday.
Sorel
That's true, I don't deny it. But, we are poor. (with a stroke of
genius) Today, we've had a better one.
Reynal
So. May I ask from whom?
Sorel
No matter. Not only is the money better, but my son will eat with
the family.
Reynal
He shall do that here as well. And I add a hundred to my offer. Is
it agreed?
Sorel
Agreed. (reluctant still)
Reynal
Well, your father and I are agreed, young man. Everyone will treat
you with respect here. If I am satisfied with you, I will help you
establish yourself later on. (Reynal takes Julien by the arm) Now,
there are some things you must understand immediately. I don't want to
see either your family or your friends here. I shall give you an
advance on your salary, but on your word of honor, you must not give
one sou to your father.
Julien
That's easily given.
Reynal
Everyone here is to call you Monsieur. Alphonse. (a servant
appears) Take Monsieur Sorel's luggage to his room. (the servant takes
the traps) And now, it is time for you to meet the children. A little
dignity will not be amiss. I want them to respect you.
Julien
Thank you, Monsieur.
(Julien leaves to join Madame Reynal.)
Reynal (addressing old Sorel)
Our business is at an end, Monsieur.
Sorel
Good day.
(Madame Reynal returns.)
Reynal
Without bowing. What a churl. (noticing his wife) Well, what do
you think of our new acquisition, my dear?
Madame Reynal
I'm not so pleased with that upstart peasant as you are. You'll
make him insolent with your kindness. I know the type. We'll have to
get rid of him in a month.
Reynal
So be it. But, people will have gotten used to seeing our children
with a tutor. And, we'll get another one. After all, educated peasants
are a dime a dozen. So much the better.
Fouque
Julien, so good to see you.
Julien
I told you, I don't forget my friends.
Fouque
This is delightful. In fact, I was going to look you up anyway.
Julien
I beat you to it.
Fouque
I have a business proposition to put to you, Julien.
Julien
Really? I'm hardly in a position to undertake any business. You
sound so serious.
Fouque
I am serious. I apologize for sounding so pompous. My timber
business is going very well, and I need some help, a partner, in fact.
Julien
If I hear of any one . . .
Fouque
You, Julien. I want you.
Julien
Me? I'm honored, but I'm soon to take my vows. And, besides that,
I've got this tutoring job. I'm not a priest, but I am of a scholarly
turn . . .
Fouque
With your education, we could make three times what I'm making
now . . .
Julien
Really, I'm touched, but . . .
Fouque
You're not cut out to be a priest.
Julien
Everyone seems to think that, except me.
Fouque
You're ambitious, Julien.
Julien
Who denies it?
Fouque
And, you've quarreled with Reynal or you wouldn't be here.
Julien
You've a good head on your shoulders for judging people. You'll
make your fortune.
Fouque
Julien, if we become partners we'll e rich in a few years . . .
Julien
But, I'd like to keep my tutoring position, just for the present.
Fouque
Reynal despises you, like the mud on his boots . . .
Julien
I have certain reasons . . . I also have to think of my vocation.
Fouque
If you don't feel like living with me, you can go back to the
seminary after a short time. And, I can promise you the best parish in
the district, because I supply firewood to the Archbishop and several
of the leading citizens who need it for their factories, so . . .
Julien
I get the parish, because you supply the firewood? (he laughs)
Fouque
Exactly. You're too proud. It's honest labor.
Julien
You're right. I am too proud. I don't want to be a merchant.
Fouque
As a merchant, I'll be able to buy and sell you in five years.
Julien
That's true. But a tutor, a priest, has a certain position.
Fouque
Shit. That may have been true fifty years ago, but not today.
Money counts today.
Julien
Not at the highest levels.
Fouque
Who's talking about the highest levels?
Julien (serious)
I am.
Fouque
You want to join the aristocracy?
Julien
With all my heart and soul.
Fouque (whistles)
I always knew you were ambitious. But, that's exactly why you
shouldn't be a priest.
Julien
On the contrary, that's exactly why I should become a priest.
There are only two roads for a poor man in France. They are the Army
and the Clergy. I have chosen the Clergy because since Napoleon, it is
clear that the most one can hope for from the Army is to be a General.
Fouque
The most one can hope to be . . . This beats all.
Julien
As you said, I am ambitious. I've never told anyone of my dreams
before. I forbid you ever to repeat it.
Fouque
Who would believe me? Still, a few years with me. You could build
a nest egg . . .
Julien
Why should I throw away a half dozen years of my life? I'd be
twenty- eight by then, and at that age Napoleon had already performed
his greatest deeds. Who knows, if after obscurely heaping up money
selling timber, my soul wouldn't be as coarse as the merchandise.
Fouque
Napoleon again. If you feel degraded to be a timber merchant, I'll
say no more.
Julien
I don't mean it that way. But, surely you can see its not the
timber from which heroes are made.
Fouque
I suppose so.
Julien
It's not a choice between vice and virtue, but between a
prosperous, though mediocre, future and a glorious dream. Perhaps I
have no real strength of character or I wouldn't doubt my capacity to
work for you for a while and re-emerge as a hero.
Fouque
Napoleon . . . heroes . . . aristocracy? What next? And yet, you
put up with Reynal's insults.
Julien
What if I took possession of his wife right under his nose?
Fouque
And now, a Don Juan!
Julien
I owe it to myself to become her lover.
Fouque
Think of the risk.
Julien
One must dare. Besides, if I do make a name for myself, and
someone jeers at me for having been a tutor, I can say that love drove
me to it.
Fouque
But, what makes you think you'll succeed with her. She's got a
reputation for being pretty stuck up.
Julien
Oh, of success, there's no doubt. (nonchalantly) I'll have to tell
her I love her.
Fouque
But, for an inexperienced gauche person like you, to love a great
lady.
Julien
I may be inexperienced and crude, but at least I won't be weak.
Fouque
Julien . . .
Julien
Yes, and lacking in character, too. I'd have made a bad soldier
for Napoleon. But a little intrigue with the lady of the house will
keep me amused for a while. I must tell her I lover her at once.
(He leaves, leaving Fouque stunned.)
Reynal (crumpling a letter and slamming his fist)
He's come here to find fault.
Madame Reynal
But, how can he? You're scrupulously honest in the way you handle
the funds allotted to the poor.
Reynal
This little Parisian inspector will publish articles in all the
liberal press.
Madame Reynal
You never read them anyway.
Reynal
Others do. How do you prove you're an honest man?
Madame Reynal
Forget him, there's nothing you can do. I want to talk to you
about Julien.
Reynal
Is he getting out of line?
Madame Reynal
On the contrary.
Reynal
Let's not lose him. He's getting a reputation now. Damn it, I
don't want someone else to have him.
Madame Reynal
I'd like you to give him a little extra, so he can have some
presentable clothes made for himself.
Reynal
Let's not give him delusions of grandeur.
Madame Reynal
But, he's done very well, and he refused my offer.
Reynal
What? You tolerated a refusal from a servant?
Madame Reynal
He is not a servant.
Reynal
Anyone not of noble birth who works for you is a servant. Remember
that! I'm going to have a talk with this Monsieur Julien.
Madame Reynal
I beg you not to humiliate him.
Reynal
Hey, Monsieur Julien!
Madame Reynal
I WILL NOT HAVE YOU HUMILIATE HIM!
Reynal
He hasn't spent enough time with the children lately. Hey,
MONSIEUR!
Madame Reynal
I won't have this.
Julien (insolent)
Were you calling me?
Reynal
Yes, Monsieur. It seems you have been so impolite as to refuse a
gift from my wife. Besides that, you've neglected the children.
Julien (icily)
Monsieur, do you think your children would have made the same
progress with any other tutor? If your answer is no, how dare you
complain that I neglect them?
Reynal
I didn't say they weren't improving, I merely . . .
Julien (furious)
As for your wife's kind gift, I refused it because she thought it
unnecessary to mention it to you, for fear you would not approve. (to
Madame Reynal) I am humble, Madame, but not base. I'd be less than
a footman if I put myself in a position of having to hide anything
concerning money from Monsieur de Reynal. I am prepared to account for
every penny of the money I have received since entering this house.
Reynal
If I had understood your motives . . . I should not have been
angry. You were very correct.
Julien
I can live without you, Monsieur . . .
Reynal
I didn't mean to upset you.
Julien
That's not enough for me, Monsieur. Think of the infamous things
you have said to me. And, in front of your wife, too.
Reynal
Now, now—
Julien
I know where to go when I leave your house, Monsieur.
Reynal (to Madame Reynal)
So, that's it. (to Julien) I apologize. Does that satisfy you? I
hope you will accept a raise of a hundred francs without being
offended. Are we agreed? Fine. Now, if you will excuse me, I have some
business to attend to. (to Madame Reynal) That's another hundred
francs you've cost me with your nonsense.
(Reynal goes into the house.)
Madame Reynal
Julien.
Julien
That was your doing.
Madame Reynal
You were magnificent. Don't be angry, dearest. I didn't intend it
that way.
Julien
He's just made the greatest apology such a base nature is capable
of.
Madame Reynal
You were so heroic.
Julien
I've won a battle. A real battle.
Madame Reynal
He's really under a lot of pressure. Anyway, you can't leave us.
Julien
Why not?
Madame Reynal
What about the children?
Julien
They'll get along. Tutors are a dime a dozen.
Madame Reynal (choking)
And me?
Julien
You could find another lover.
Madame Reynal
Julien!
Julien
One from your own class. One you don't humiliate all the time
without meaning to.
Madame Reynal
Do I humiliate you? I love you. It seems to me that I humble
myself.
Julien
You love me. But after this moment of weakness for which your
pride is reproaching you, you will be just as haughty as ever.
Madame Reynal
Have I been haughty?
Julien
In your eyes, I am not well-born.
Madame Reynal
Julien, I never even considered such a thing! You just say that to
hurt me. I think you no longer love me. I'm ten years older than you.
That's it. This is your way of getting rid of me.
Julien
Louise, that's not it at all.
Madame Reynal
Then, why did you lock your door to me last night?
Julien
Because it was too dangerous.
Madame Reynal
It wasn't too dangerous the night before, was it?
Julien
Didn't you order me to be careful?
Madame Reynal
I only meant in public.
Julien
You can still order me if it regards the children. There I am
still your servant. But, in responding to my love, you should assume
equality. It's impossible to love without equality.
Madame Reynal
But, but, Julien, if my husband had heard anything, I'd have lost.
Julien
Would you regret losing your life?
Madame Reynal
Very much, since I have known you. But if I must, I will. Oh
Julien, you aren't tired of me?
Julien
No.
Madame Reynal
If only I'd known you ten years ago, when I could still pass for a
pretty woman.
Julien
Stop that.
Madame Reynal
Oh darling, how I hope to live long enough to see you in all your
glory. France needs a great man . . .
Julien
You're the only person who believes in me.
Madame Reynal
Are you happy? Do you feel I love you enough?
Julien
You know I do.
Madame Reynal
Then, it's not all for nothing. I know I'm damned beyond all
redemption. You were young and I seduced you. God will forgive you,
but I'm damned.
Julien
Don't talk such nonsense.
Madame Reynal
I know it by a sure sign. God is punishing me now.
Julien
What sign? What are you talking about?
Madame Reynal
Stanislas is sick.
Julien
Just a bad cold.
Madame Reynal
Last night, I dreamed he was dead. God will take him from me for
my sin.
Julien
You're simply imagining things.
Madame Reynal
I'm scared, Julien. But, not repentant. I'd do it again no matter
what happens. I'm not afraid of Hell. If only He won't take my
children from me.
Julien
If you keep working yourself up like this, your husband will.
You'll give everything away.
Reynal (entering)
Louise, I think we'd best send for the doctor. His fever is worse.
Madame Reynal (beside herself)
No, listen to me. I want you to know the whole truth. It's I who
am killing my son. Heaven is punishing me for my sins.
Reynal
What sins have you ever committed, for goodness sake? The child is
not dying. He simply needs a doctor.
Reynal (exiting)
Women! Always calm in a crisis.
Julien
That was close. If you husband was a man of any perception.
Madame Reynal
Go away from me. In the name of God, leave this house: it's your
presence that's killing my son. God is punishing me, and He is just. I
worship his justice. My crime is horrible, and I was without remorse.
I didn't give my baby a thought. All I wanted was for my husband to
give you some money. Now my baby is dying . . .
Julien
You love your son more than you love me?
Madame Reynal
No. Monster that I am, I love you more. Go away.
Julien
No lover could ask for more. I'll leave you, if that will help.
But I adore you. But, if I go now, you're sure to tell your husband
everything. That automaton will put the whole blame on you.
Madame Reynal
So much the better.
Julien
You'll ruin his life, too.
Madame Reynal
Perhaps throwing myself in the mud will save my son. Perhaps then
God will forgive me.
Julien
Better if I punish myself. I'm guilty too. I'll return to the
seminary.
Madame Reynal
Ah.
Julien
Perhaps such a sacrifice will appease God.
Madame Reynal (in agony)
I don't want you to go.
Julien
If only I could take his illness on myself.
Madame Reynal (hugging him impulsively)
Oh, you love him, too. I believe you, I believe you. (pushing him
away in horror) Oh, why aren't you my baby's father. Then it wouldn't
be a sin to love you more than my son.
Julien
Tell me what to do. I no longer matter. I'll obey you no matter
what your orders are.
Madame Reynal
I'm not sure I can be silent without you here.
Julien
Do you want me to stay and love you like a brother?
Madame Reynal
And, what about me? Is it in my power to love you that way?
Julien
For the sake of your children, you must promise me to say nothing.
Madame Reynal
I promise.
Julien
I will return to the seminary tonight. We mustn't be together any
longer.
Madame Reynal
Julien—
Julien
Yes?
Madame Reynal
Are you doing this for me, or for yourself? Could it be that you
have never loved me?
Julien
Louise.
Madame Reynal
No. Don't answer. I don't want to know. I have not just loved you,
I have worshipped you. Go. And do not come back and do not write.
Somehow I must learn to live without you. Goodbye forever, my darling.
(going in, then turns) You must kiss Stanislas goodbye before you go.
Julien (turning toward the audience as she leaves)
How could a simple peasant like myself have inspired love in such
a pure heart? That is a heart in which it is glorious to reign. Well,
have I played my part well? Have I done everything that I, in duty,
owed myself?
CURTAIN
Fouque (entering)
At last I managed to get in.
Julien
Fouque!
Fouque
I've been here five times, and they wouldn't let me see you. Why
don't you manage to get out?
Julien
I'm testing myself.
Fouque
Now, I suppose you want to be a saint. The Napoleon of the
Heavenly Choir.
Julien
It's good to see a human face.
Fouque
You don't like it here, then? And you, so learned in theology . .
.
Julien
Learning means nothing here. It counts only in appearance. Could
it be that they value it at its true worth?
Fouque
I've never heard you talk like this before.
Julien
I was foolish enough to be proud because I was top in my class.
That only made me enemies. I should do like other clever fellows and
contrive to appear stupid.
Fouque
But, Julien—
Julien
I've spent my life congratulating myself on being different from
other men. Being different breeds only hatred.
Fouque
Then, you no longer desire to be a priest?
Julien
Who knows. Perhaps I'll spend my life selling pews in Heaven to
the faithful.
Fouque
Well, you could sell timber.
Julien
It's probably a nobler profession.
Fouque
But Julien, I had heard that you were the Prior's favorite.
Julien
Well, I am . . . of sorts. But, he's the sort who believes in
doing nothing for those he loves most. He thinks God will do it.
Fouque
Why?
Julien
He places justice higher than love. The more he loves you the less
you can expect from him. He would rather die than acknowledge the
favoritism he feels. Anyway, he couldn't do me much good, even if he
tried.
Fouque
Why not?
Julien
Because he's a Jansenist, and the Bishop is a Jesuit. Father
Pirard's blessing is the kiss of death to any man's ambitions.
Fouque
Why not quit?
Julien
I abominate this life.
Fouque
I still need a partner.
Julien
No. I will not allow them to hound me out, the swine. Ah, Fouque,
do you know that in this seminary there are men worthy of being Pope?
Fouque
Really?
Julien
You bet. They make peasants Popes these days. Sixtus V was a
swineherd. Why not genuine swine?
Fouque
You're too bitter.
Julien (pacing)
By the way, how are my former charges doing?
Fouque
Growing. But the mother has become extremely pious.
Julien (interested)
Has she?
Fouque
Of the most exalted kind.
Father Pirard (entering)
Brother Julien, I wish to . . . Ah, you are not alone.
Fouque
I was just leaving, Father. Goodbye, Julien. Remember my offer
stands. Be back again. (Fouque exits)
Julien
I'll think about it. I'll write you.
Father Pirard
Julien, you know I am fond of you.
(Julien takes his hand and kisses it. Pirard, although a man of
strong feelings is aghast. He hates all display of emotion.)
Father Pirard
What are you doing? (faltering) Yes, my son, I'm fond of you.
Heaven knows it's against my will. I ought to be just and neither love
nor hate. But I am weak. (pause) I see something in you that offends
the vulgar. Wherever you go, jealousy and hatred will follow. Hold
fast to truth, my son. If you do, God will confound your enemies
Julien
I give you my word of honor.
Father Pirard
That expression is out of place here. It is too suggestive of the
vain honor of men of the world.
Julien
I have sinned, Father.
Father Pirard
Julien, I am troubled about you. You are not lacking in either
memory or intelligence, or in apparent devotion to the Lord.
Julien
Thanks you, Father.
Father Pirard
One question troubles me. Is it sincere?
Julien
But—
Father Pirard
You have a cheerful face, Julien. The faces of this world are
truly theatres of falseness. Do not protest. If you have had devotion
in the past, you will need much more in the future. I say this to you,
because I am about to take a step which will leave you without a
protector in this den of wolves.
Julien
I don't understand.
Father Pirard
I am about to resign. I want you to carry my letter of resignation
to the Bishop, who will, no doubt, be delighted.
Julien
You're leaving?
Father Pirard
And you will be alone, Julien. Because you were dear to me, you
will be a marked man.
Julien
But, where will you go? What will you do?
Father Pirard
I am not entirely without friends. If I had been, I should not
have survived as long as I have. The Marquis de la Mole has, for many
years, urged me to become his personal secretary.
Julien
The Cabinet Minister? Then, you are truly fortunate.
Father Pirard
Julien, are you firm in your intent to stay here?
Julien
What else can I do?
Father Pirard
You can come with me.
Julien
With you, Father?
Father Pirard
The Marquis is also in need of a private secretary who is not a
priest. A man capable of appearing in the world, and who is not unduly
troubled in his conscience over fine points of morality.
Julien
This is very unexpected.
Father Pirard
You'll live in the house of the Marquis, who is one of the
greatest nobles in France. You'll dress in black, but not like an
ecclesiastic. You will compose most of the Marquis' correspondence and
run his library.
Julien
But, if I should not be equal to the task?
Father Pirard
With your classical learning, it will be simple. However, if after
a year, you haven't proved useful, I have arranged for your return to
the seminary.
Julien
But, my vocation . . .
Father Pirard
You'll pursue theological studies regularly. I'll see to that.
Look on this as a test.
Julien
You've thought of everything.
Father Pirard
The main point is that you prove trustworthy. It is possible that
persons will offer you enormous advantages . . . or to be blunt,
bribes, just for a peep at the Marquis' letters.
Julien (indignant)
Oh, Monsieur!
Father Pirard
It is strange that, poor as you are, and after several years in a
seminary, you are still subject to outbursts of righteous indignation.
Well, do you accept?
Julien
What is the Marquis like?
Father Pirard
Proud, but open. He proposes to give you the outrageous sum of a
hundred crowns to start. I could not dissuade him. He is used to
having his own way. He is capricious. He'll vie with you in childish
outbursts of pride and egotism. But, you must realize, he won't give
you all that money to look at your handsome face. You must be useful.
Julien
And, what is the family like?
Father Pirard
He has two children. A daughter, Mathilde, whose beauty and pride
are famous throughout the world, and a son, Count Norbert, who is
quite a madman and has an ironic wit feared by all Parisian society.
Julien
Will they despise me?
Father Pirard
They are a very old family. Of course they'll despise you. If I
were you, I'd say very little.
Julien
It seems unlikely I'll be in Paris for very long.
Father Pirard
As you like. But, for a man like you, it's either succeed or be
persecuted. There's no middle way for you. I, for example, who am a
peaceful, mediocre man, have incurred my share of enemies. You must
realize that the tribe of lackeys surrounding the Count will regard
you as less than an equal who has unjustly been placed above them.
Beneath a show of friendliness, they'll try to make you blunder.
Julien
I defy them to do that.
Father Pirard
You have decided, I see. Go then, and carry this letter to the
Bishop. Here is money. Buy yourself some suits. Do not return, but
rather, meet me in Paris three days hence. I leave you at liberty.
Ruin yourself, if you must. I'll be delivered from my weakness of
thinking about you.
Julien
Father, your blessing.
Father Pirard
There. There. Now go. Wait. One more thing. I have the misfortune
to be hot tempered; it is possible that you and I may stop seeing each
other. Go ahead now. Ruin yourself. Ruin yourself. I was forgetting.
Order some extra shirts, cuffs, and boots.
(Julien smiles and goes.)
Father Pirard
If Julien is a frail reed, let him perish. If he is a man of
spirit, let him make his way alone.
Marquis
People are fond of spaniels. Why should I be ashamed of liking
this young ecclesiastic?
Mathilde
It's outrageous to invite this Sorel to your banquet, father.
Marquis
An experiment, Mathilde. Father Pirard maintains that it's wrong
to crush the self esteem of those we employ. There's nothing wrong
with this man but his unknown face.
Mathilde
Nothing, but his name. Sorel. Besides, he's a bore. He might as
well be deaf and dumb for all he ever says.
Marquis
He's discreet.
Mathilde
I rather think he dislikes me.
Marquis
Has he been impolite?
Mathilde
Oh, no. Perfectly correct. I just don't think he cares for the
company of women. He thinks we're all silly.
Marquis
So, that's it. My charming daughter has, at last, failed to make a
conquest.
Mathilde (furious)
That's not it at all.
Marquis
I respect him for it. You're a bitch at heart, though I'm your
father that say it. I can't see how any man could love you, with your
haughty ways. I'm glad to see Sorel is a man of sense.
Mathilde
Father, such an expression.
Marquis
Please. We're alone and have no need to worry about the servants.
You are the most cold-hearted baggage that ever lived and dared to
call herself a woman . . .
Mathilde
Such talk is unworthy of a diplomat.
Marquis
Hang diplomacy. Candor is one of the few virtues left the
aristocracy. You have loved no man.
Mathilde
Except you, papa.
Marquis
Which makes up for everything in my eyes. But really, why don't
you behave normally and fall in love?
Mathilde
And, who is there worthy of my love?
Marquis
There are many presentable young men. Surely—
Mathilde
They are either weaklings or fools. I can't abide a man without
courage. And I despise courage without intellect and energy.
Marquis
There are many men.
Mathilde
Where? Don't think I haven't looked. All the men of our class are
boring. It's disgusting. They're so frightened of another reign of
terror they quake in their boots for all their swagger.
Marquis
With good reason. A revolution may not be far off.
Mathilde
In any event, what I want is a man of energy. A bold daredevil.
Marquis
Here comes your brother with Julien.
(Norbert enters from courtyard with Julien.)
Norbert
May I present a young daredevil?
Julien
Count Norbert has been kind enough to take me riding. He was good
enough to give me the gentlest horse, but after all, he couldn't tie
me to the saddle and I took a couple of spills.
Norbert
One must pay tribute to Julien's courage in riding. It is the only
thing about his riding one can praise. (he laughs good naturedly)
Mathilde (giggling)
I'm sorry, I can't help it.
Julien
If it were a question of chopping down wood, I venture to say I'd
make a good showing, but riding a horse is something I've done not
more than six times in my life.
Marquis
You shall go to riding school. After a few weeks I'll be delighted
to ride with you. Now, if you'll excuse me, there's something I must
attend to. (he leaves)
Julien
Your father is too kind. Tell me, what must I do to keep from
falling off?
Norbert
All sorts of things. For example, sit back in the saddle.
Mathilde
I think he frightens the horse with his gloomy expression.
Norbert
That's unkind.
Mathilde (on the attack)
Your gloomy expression is not in good taste, Mr. Sorel. It's a
bored expression that's needed. If you're sad, then there must be
something you lack, an admission of inferiority. If you're bored,
you're merely hard to please and the thing or person that bored you is
inferior. You must realize, my friend, what a mistake you're making.
Julien
I see.
Mathilde
You don't understand the age you live in. Always do the opposite
of what people expect of you. That I assure you is the only religion
of our time.
Julien
I shall endeavour to be more eccentric.
Mathilde
Ah, but you don't understand. To be eccentric, is to have
character. To have character, is to be predictable. You're not an apt
pupil, Mr. Sorel.
Norbert
Other provincials who come to Paris admire everything; Julien
hates everything. The others have too much affectation, whereas Julien
doesn't have enough.
Julien
Well, may I ask Mademoiselle de la Mole whether the mourning she
is wearing relates to some personal catastrophe not shared by the rest
of the family, or is it an example of her precept that one must always
do the opposite of what people expect of you?
Norbert
Touché, Julien. Sister, I think he has the better of you.
Mathilde
But, you really don't know how my custom on this day, Mr. Sorel?
Norbert
I don't think I've ever told him. You see, Julien, on this very
day in 1572, our ancestor, Boniface de la Mole, had the honor to be
executed for treason. And Marguerite of Navarre, his mistress asked
for his head after the execution.
Mathilde
She buried him with her own hands. (Mathilde is enthused) It was
the heroic age of France. How I should like to be such a woman.
(furious) Norbert, why are you smiling? Don't you see the glory
of it?
Norbert
Frankly, I don't. An utterly barbarous story, which, if true, and
I doubt it, should be speedily forgotten. I can see you heartily
despise me for that sentiment.
Mathilde
Brothers are a real test of a woman's patience, Mr. Sorel. Almost
as much as a husband, and a deal harder to be revenged on. Oh, look.
There is Monsieur Descoulis crossing the courtyard.
Julien
I've heard of him, but never met him.
Mathilde
What? But, he knows everyone. He's capable of maintaining a lie
with each one of his friends, and he has thousands. He's a man who
knows how to nourish friendship, how to cuddle it until it grows . . .
and then to suckle it. He's a sort of a sucker up. You must meet him.
Monsieur Sorel.
Norbert
I wish you would behave like a lady.
Mathilde
I am one, so why bother? What's the use of taking the trouble to
be born a lady if one has to behave like one?
Norbert (trying to change the subject)
From time to time he quarrels with someone and writes seven or
eight letters about the subject. Then, he patches it up and writes
seven or eight letters overflowing with friendship.
Mathilde
Monsieur Descoulis will be mentioned in history. He brought about
the Restoration in company with Monsieur Talleyrand . . . or so he
says.
Norbert
The man is wealthy. I can't understand why he comes here to
swallow my father's barbs such as 'How many times have you betrayed
your friends, my dear Descoulis? I ask you only because I know you are
weak in arithmetic.'
Mathilde
Is it true he betrayed people?
Norbert
Who hasn't these days? He prides himself on being independent.
Mathilde
There's your independent man, bowing almost to the ground to my
father.
Norbert
He's lower than if he fell on his knees. My dear Sorel, never,
never bow the way that historical personage does. No, not even to God
Almighty.
Mathilde
'I'm independent,' he says. 'Why should I have the same opinion
today that I had six weeks ago. In that case, my opinion would be my
tyrant.' What a fool.
Norbert
Here comes Baron Baton.
Mathilde
I think the servants laugh at him. What a name.
Norbert
Well, it's all in getting used to it. Think how it must have been
for the Duc de Bouillon at first. What's in a name? Baton's a good
fellow, and I must speak to him before he speaks to my father. You'll
excuse me, sister . . .
(Norbert scampers out.)
Mathilde
He's been gambling again. I know it. (pause during which Julien
says not one word) You're not very entertaining, Monsieur.
Julien
I am sorry, Mademoiselle, if my conversation disappoints you. I
am, after all, a simple sawyer's son, and not used to all the
refinements.
Mathilde
It's not your conversation I complain of, but the lack of it.
Julien
Perhaps, I had better go, in that case.
Mathilde
Tell me, sir, do you get that somber face by inheritance, or do
you imitate Father Pirard?
Julien
Do you judge people by their faces, then? Allow me to say that
Father Pirard's expression results from the fact that his exquisite
conscience torments him.
Mathilde
Yes, yes, we all know how good Father Pirard is . . . but after
all, what good is his goodness, if it only makes him gloomy?
Julien
Perhaps, you prefer Monsieur Napier. He has the most cheerful
expression, and he is a notorious informer.
Mathilde
Oh, don't be so touchy. (changing the subject) Are you coming to
the Ball tonight?
Julien
I'm not aware of being invited.
Mathilde
Of course you are. You're a member of the household.
Julien
It might appear presumptuous, and I am sure I wouldn't want to
anyway.
Mathilde
Then come because I want you.
(Mathilde says this with irritation, not because she is imperious,
but because he has forced her to ask him. Julien is not aware of this
manner, however.)
Julien
So, it seems even during a Ball, I am accountable to every member
of the family. God knows whether what I say to you will upset the
plans of your father, mother or brother. I have to obey the whim of
everyone, like a complete nonentity.
Mathilde
Why do you take it like that?
Julien (icily)
Have no fear, Madame. I will obey your orders.
Mathilde (furious)
See that you do, or I will complain to my father. (she stalks out)
Two Gentlemen in masks enter.
First Gentleman
Mademoiselle de la Mole acts as though she's rather die than
please anyone who speaks to her.
Second Gentleman
That's the whole secret of being attractive.
First Gentleman
Is that not your opinion Monsieur Julien?
Julien
Oh, I suppose so. For a parvenu like me, she's worth studying. I
must learn what perfection means to your set.
Mathilde
Monsieur Julien—
Julien
Duty calls.
First Gentleman
I'll be damned.
Mathilde
Isn't this the finest Ball of the season?
(Julien remains silent.)
Mathilde (trying again)
I think the quadrille is wonderful, and these ladies dance it
beautifully.
Julien
You know yourself, Mademoiselle, I have never been to a Ball
before and cannot judge.
(The company is amused.)
Mathilde (determined to be pleased)
How often do you hear such candor in this town? (But, now that she
has come to his rescue from the amusement of others, she cannot forego
a shot at him herself) You're a wise man, Monsieur Sorel. You look on
all this vanity with the eye of a philosopher, like Rousseau. These
follies surprise you, but do not enchant you. Your lofty position
permits you to wonder at the follies of mankind.
Julien (stung, but determined to fight back)
In my opinion, Rousseau was a fool to set himself up as a judge of
high society; he didn't understand it and he judged with the envy of a
man risen above his station. A lackey, pure and simple.
Mathilde
Is the Social Contract the work of a lackey?
Julien
Decidedly. He was a parvenu flattered by the company of the
nobility and determined to appear superior.
Mathilde
I think it the work of a great man.
Julien
Everyone is entitled to his opinion, Madame, although your
principles are a little strange for the daughter of the nation's
leading Tory. I shouldn't let your father know of it, considering the
fact he disapproves of your reading Walter Scott.
(The company titters.)
(Julien bows and moves off.)
Second Gentleman
He scored off her. Serves the little minx right.
Mathilde (a trifle too loud)
Ah, Norbert, rescue me from this insipid group of people. (the
masks are a trifle offended) They all have the most perfect manners,
and if it weren't for the boredom they cause, these gentlemen would be
very agreeable.
Norbert
Are you being rude again, sister?
Mathilde
Foh. Here comes Monsieur de Croisenois. He wants to marry me.
Preserve me, I'll hide. (she ducks down behind her brother)
Norbert
Mathilde, what's gotten into you?
Mathilde
Has he gone?
Norbert
Yes, he's looking for you in the drawing room.
Mathilde
Precisely why I ducked. Smug fool.
Norbert
He's a very distinguished man.
Mathilde
I can't think of anything that distinguishes a man that can't be
bought. Maybe a death sentence. Where's Julien?
Norbert
Don't see him.
Mathilde (angry)
He was here a minute ago. Sneak.
Norbert
Why don't you marry de Croisenois, sister? He's got a good name.
Mathilde
He's a conceited fool. What has he ever done? Acquired a fortune.
That's considered most meritorious today. Well, let him marry Monsieur
Rothschild's daughter. Who is that gentleman?
Norbert
That's Count Altamira.
Mathilde
You mean the man who planned the comic opera revolution in Spain?
Norbert
The same. What a farce it was.
Mathilde
True. Still he acted. I want to meet a real man. Bring him over.
Norbert
I'm not sure a man of his principles is fit company.
Mathilde
Dear brother. You know I cannot bear to be contradicted.
Norbert
But nothing reeks of such bad form as a conspiracy. What could be
more unattractive than an unsuccessful conspirator?
Mathilde
Never mind. Go get him.
(Norbert goes to the Count)
Mathilde (to a Gentleman)
A conspirator at a nobleman's ball. How delightful.
Gentleman It's very strange what this age has come to. Just think, that sleazy Jacobin is the son of Prince Pimental, one of the oldest and noblest families in Naples.
Mathilde (to another Gentleman)
Well, that remark proves that good birth robs a man of his
strength of character. Am I doomed to talk nonsense all night?
Norbert (returning)
May I present Count Altimira, sister.
Mathilde
The tell us you're a revolutionary, Count.
Altimira Nonsense. Nonsense. I merely wish to see the principle of utility applied to governments as it is to economics. What could be more expedient than doing away with kingship and aristocracy?
Mathilde
But, where would civilization be without an aristocracy?
Altimira No further removed from us than it is at present. Now Bentham has this to say of bicameral government.
Mathilde (between her teeth)
Dear God. (aloud) But, I had taken you to be a sort of Danton. You
sound more like a professor. I was hoping to find bloodstains on your
shirt.
Altimira Sorry to disappoint you, Mademoiselle. I launder my shirts quite carefully.
Mathilde
They say you are under some sort of death sentence.
Altimira I prefer not to be reminded of that. (laughs) Now, as I was saying about Bentham.
Mathilde
Count, will you excuse me, there's someone I simply must see. (she
scoots for her life)
(Norbert follows.)
Norbert
Good God, Mathilde, think what you are doing.
Altimira Never mind, Norbert, there should be some utility in social conventions as well as political. Why stay with someone who's boring you?
Norbert
For the sake of politeness.
Altimira Nonsense. She did right. She exhibited a noble impatience with the outmoded. We, of the aristocracy, are no longer useful, only ornamental. Soon the only pace for us will be on the stage . . .
Norbert
You must accept my apologies for my sister. I'm going to have a
talk with her.
Altimira Nonsense, nonsense. Why should she want to listen to the ravings of a middle-aged man. She's young.
Julien (has been watching and now approaches)
Count Altimira, I've been looking for you. Would you honor me with
a chat? Monsieur de la Mole has asked me to give you this, and I would
like to talk of something . . .
(They go off.)
Norbert
Excuse me, I will attend to my sister.
A Gentleman Today, gentlemen, it is not a man who must be destroyed; it is Paris. Why involve France in something that only concerns Paris? Paris alone with its newspapers has ruined the aristocracy. The modern Babylon must perish.
Norbert (has found Mathilde)
I want to talk to you.
Mathilde
I'm in no humor for it.
Norbert
What's got in to you? Do you want to disgrace our name?
Mathilde
You overestimate my importance. My rudeness is not about to
disgrace the name of a family that has been noble for six hundred
years. You're talking like a bourgeois, brother.
Norbert
It was inexcusable.
Mathilde
Oh, I had a headache.
Norbert
Even a parvenu like Julien wouldn't act like this.
Mathilde
Of course not. He wouldn't dare. Anyway, he's so strange and
touchy.
(Altimira and Julien have moved near to Mathilde and Norbert.)
Altimira Yes, Danton was a man.
Mathilde
Good heavens, can the Count be another Danton? He has such a noble
face and Danton was so horribly ugly.
Norbert
I see you aren't about to listen. Well, I don't have to witness
the disgrace you'll bring on us. Good night.
(Mathilde, alone now, eavesdrops on Julien and Altimira.)
Mathilde (to herself)
I'm certainly very bored tonight. (to Julien) Wasn't Danton a
butcher?
Julien
In the eyes of certain prejudiced classes. Actually, he began his
career like a number of others I see here tonight . . . as a lawyer.
Mathilde
You are satiric, I see.
Julien
He also had an enormous advantage with women because he was
extraordinarily ugly.
Mathilde
That's an original thought. Not too flattering to the ladies.
Altimira Look at that man, the Prince d'Arceli, the Spanish Ambassador. This morning, he formally asked for my extradition. Tonight, he drank my health. If I'm returned to Spain, there's no doubt I'll hang.
Julien
The bastard.
Altimira I spoke of myself only to provide a vivid example. I understand his point of view. Only doing his job, nothing personal. No reason not to drink your health. Look at him, he can't keep his eyes off his Star of Malta for five minutes. A hundred years ago the Star was a real honor, beyond the reach of a man like that. Today, only men like that want it. He'd have a whole town hanged to get it.
Julien
Is that the prize he paid for it?
Altimira No. Thirty rich liberals sufficed. What a monster!
Julien
A man like that doesn't deserve to live.
(Mathilde is practically letting her hair rest on Julien's
shoulder, so interested has she become in the conversation.)
Altimira As you said, you don't have to do much these days to get it. Had he murdered a whole town, that, at least, would have been noteworthy.
Julien
Infamous.
Altimira You're very young. My sister is kind and gentle. In 1815 I was hiding in her house. The day she heard of Marshall Ney's execution, she began to clap her hands and dance.
Julien
That's hard to believe.
Altimira That's partisanship. There are no passions left in this century. That's why people are so bored. The cruellest acts committed in the most inoffensive ways, without any cruelty intended.
Julien
So much the worse. When people commit crimes they should at least
take pleasure in committing them . . . What other justification is
there?
Altimira You're right. And, most people forget their crimes these days. They're so accustomed to them and bored by them. And so does the world. Whereas, I am considered a Jacobin monster.
Mathilde
Perfectly true.
(Altimira is astonished by her remark. Julien doesn't deign giving
her a glance.)
Altimira I might add, that my revolution was unsuccessful only because I was unwilling to rearrange the anatomy of a half dozen men.
Julien (eyes blazing)
At that time, you didn't know the rules of the game. Now . . .
Altimira I knew the rules, Julien. I preferred to play by my own rules.
Julien
But, the end justifies the means. If, instead of being a
nonentity, I had a certain amount of power, I'd be willing to hang
three men to save four.
(Mathilde's and Julien's eyes lock for an instant, then she
withdraws angrily.)
Mathilde (asserting her superiority)
Would you get me an ice, Monsieur Sorel? I'm thirsty. (her eyes
say 'dare to refuse')
Julien (equally defiant)
How can I refuse the daughter of the man who employs me?
Mathilde
What a magnificent ball, Count. There's nothing lacking.
Altimira Thought is lacking.
Mathilde
You're here, Count. Doesn't that make thought present, also?
Altimira I'm here because of my name. It's about five centuries older vintage than anyone else here . . . except yours, my noble hostess. But thought is hated here . . . and throughout the country. What other race always starts profound conversations and stops them before anything intelligent is said?
Mathilde
That's because our society values decorum above all things.
Altimira Well, I'm happy to be in the company of a woman whose
conduct to me has proved she does not. You'll excuse me, Mademoiselle.
(he bows and goes off)
(Mathilde is furious, but cannot think of a retort. Besides, she
knows she deserves it. Julien returns with a glass for her.)
Mathilde
Thank you. You could have brought one for yourself. I'll toast
you.
Julien
I'm sorry. I wasn't sure it was permitted. I didn't wish to be
presumptuous.
(Julien has succeeded in making her feel that her superior position
in society is a distinct disadvantage. Mathilde ignores his remark and
tries again.)
Mathilde
You're obviously thinking about something very interesting,
Monsieur Sorel. Can it be some curious anecdote about the conspiracy
that sent Count Altimira here to us?
Julien
On the contrary, my mind's a blank.
Mathilde
Tell me what you're thinking about. I'm dying to know. I give you
my word, I'll be discreet. (lightly) What can have made you abandon
your usual coldness and become an inspired creature like one of
Michelangelo's prophets?
Julien (seriously)
Well . . . I'm wondering, should a man who wants to drive crime
and ignorance from this earth, pass over it like a whirlwind and do
evil indiscriminately?
Mathilde (vaguely frightened)
You talk wildly.
Julien
You needn't be afraid. I'm of no account. As a matter of fact, if
your friend the Count had compromised a few people with crimes they
wouldn't have been swept aside so easily. They were only presumptuous,
chattering children . . . like me. But, by what right do I judge them?
After all, they actually dared to attempt something . . .
Mathilde
You are quite sincere. You are made unhappy by your extraordinary
ambition. You need a woman to love you. But, I see you no love in you.
You are so cold.
Julien
What kind of woman would you suggest for such a man?
Mathilde
A woman who is bored with her life and in search of adventure. Of
necessity, such a woman must be an aristocrat. And, since your
ambition is great, you had best seek out a woman whose boredom has
reached the highest pitch. No doubt, you will find her in the highest
ranks of the aristocracy.
Julien
You are very witty.
Mathilde
In fact, I can't suggest a better woman for you than . . . myself,
Monsieur.
Julien (coolly)
I think you are making fun of me.
Mathilde (smiling)
Perhaps. Perhaps not.
Marquis de la Mole (coming up)
Ah, Julien. We are going to put that famous memory of yours to
work. At ten o'clock, come to my study. There I will entrust you with
a mission. You'll ride at dawn for Strasbourg.
Julien
Yes, sir. I will not fail you.
Marquis
If I thought you were capable of failure, I would not trust you.
Take some pistols, it may be dangerous. Ten o'clock, now.
Julien
Ten o'clock.
(The Marquis leaves hurriedly.)
Mathilde
What did you think of my suggestion?
Julien
It seems I am about to have an adventure.
Mathilde
Is that the way you look at it?
Julien
I beg your pardon, Mademoiselle. I didn't hear you. What did you
say?
Mathilde
Insupportable!
Julien
I'm truly sorry, Mademoiselle, but I was caught up with the
thought of riding to Strasbourg at dawn.
Mathilde
You may be in great danger.
Julien
It will be good to run some hazards again. I haven't for a long
time.
Mathilde
Back in the days of Boniface de la Mole, life was a series of
adventures. Nowadays, an efficient police system has eliminated that.
The unexpected has vanished. If it crops up in someone else's ideas,
it's overwhelmed with epigrams.
Julien
Yes . . . even for a man of action.
Mathilde
The best a woman can hope for is a love affair. A grand passion.
That kind of amusement has many dangers. (thoughtfully) So much the
better! Well? Have you nothing to say to me?
Julien
You were speaking generally, I took it.
Mathilde
Are you making fun of me? I'm patient, sir, but I won't be much
longer.
Julien
I can't imagine what you want me to say, or what I've done to
offend you. Allow me to apologize and withdraw. It's almost time to go
to your father.
Mathilde
You're going to make me say it, aren't you? Oh, you heartless
tyrant. What kind of monster have I allowed myself to love?
Julien
I don't understand.
Mathilde
You understand very well, indeed. You're going away and I must
speak. Oh, you beast. With your character, you shouldn't be shy in
telling me you love me.
Julien
No doubt, you speak to ridicule my simplicity.
Mathilde
Haven't you triumphed over me enough? Directly you leave my
father, come to my apartment. I will not let you go without loving
you.
Julien
But, I leave at dawn.
Mathilde
So much more enchanted will be our love. Each moment will be
precious.
Julien
But, how will I get in without being seen?
Mathilde
You will take the ladder in the garden and climb up the balcony.
Julien
That's risky, isn't it?
Mathilde
The man who loves me must take risks.
Julien
But, I just can't leave it standing there at your window all
night.
Mathilde
Lower it with some rope. I always have some rope in my room.
(A look of perfect comprehension comes over Julien's face.)
Julien (ironic)
So, I'm favored over Monsieur de Croisenois. How is it possible
that a poor tutor like me could prevail over his handsome mustaches?
Mathilde
I know you have a manly heart. Don't give him a thought. He means
nothing to me. I want to test your courage, I admit it.
Julien (ironic)
And, when I come to your apartment, you will grant me a happiness
which will place me above all other men?
Mathilde
So, you act like my master already! (she flounces and looks
furiously at him) But, I must speak to you. (icily) It's an accepted
convention: one speaks to one's lover. (frigidly) I have promised you
and decided if you show supreme courage, I must make you happy. I KEEP
MY WORD! Otherwise, I'd be the one lacking in character. I shall do my
duty.
Julien (equally cold)
I will not be behindhand in the duty I owe myself.
Mathilde (mocking)
Of course, I may be mistaken in you. Perhaps you only have the
appearance of a superior man.
Julien
I shall not refuse such a pleasure. I'm not that stupid. Your love
makes me the equal of all men in this room. I shall keep my
appointment without fail. Now, (he bows) you must excuse me. I must go
to your father.
Mathilde (as he leaves)
Our ecstasy seems a little forced. Passion seems to be a model we
are imitating rather than feeling. But, it would be immoral for me to
retreat now. Can I have been mistaken? Is it possible I don't love
him? And, my God. What's worse. He hasn't even said he loves me.
The Reactionary Gentleman (passing by in conversation with
another)
Form your battalions. Will you go on talking without acting? In
fifty years there will be nothing in Europe but Presidents and
Republics . . . not a single king. And without those letters K I N G,
the priests and the noblemen will also disappear. I see only
CANDIDATES currying favor with unwashed majorities.
CURTAIN
Mathilde
So, Monsieur, apparently you think you've acquired some very
strong rights over me. In spite of my clearly expressed wishes, you
insist on speaking to me. Do you realize that no one else has ever
dared so much?
Julien
Don't you love me anymore?
Mathilde
Actually, my passion for you, poor boy, lasted only from midnight
when you came up the ladder with pistols in belt, until Mass. I saw
clearly that you thought you had acquired a master's rights. From that
moment, my passion began to cool.
Julien
You are very proud.
Mathilde
And, if it weren't for the fact I think your vanity capable of
revealing the nature of our relationship, I'd break it off, here and
now.
Julien (controlling himself)
Have no fear. I swear that I'll never reveal your secret. In fact,
I'd never speak to you again, if it were not for the fact that your
reputation might suffer from so noticeable a change.
Mathilde (flatly)
Then, it is over.
Julien (calmly)
It's over. Do not think that I am ungrateful. You conferred a
great honor on me . . . though I clearly understand it proceeded more
from your notions of romance than from any worth on my part. I must
admit that I was born with a very unimaginative and unfortunate
character.
Mathilde
So, that is what you are like! And I've given myself to you. The
first man who came along.
Julien (furious)
The first? (he picks up a letter opener from the table)
Mathilde (crying)
Are you going to kill me?
Julien
That would be altogether too melodramatic. (he replaces the letter
opener) More appropriate in a comedy than in our relationship.
Mathilde (interested Were you really going to kill me?
(Julien makes no reply.)
Mathilde
What will you do now?
Julien (coolly)
Why, I think I shall endeavor to forget you.
Mathilde (furious)
How will you ever do that? You, a little nobody? Why you'll boast
of it forever.
Julien
Please notice that you are speaking loudly. You'll be heard in the
next room.
Mathilde
What does that matter? Who will dare to tell me I've been
overhead? I want to cure your petty self-esteem forever of any silly
ideas you may have conceived about me.
Julien
I made the great mistake of treating you AS IF I loved you . . .
and you believing it, despise me. What it is to have the advantage of
an aristocratic education!
Mathilde
So. It was reserved for me, the daughter of the noblest house of
France to see my most indecent advances scorned. And scorned by whom?
By one of my father's servants.
Julien
Say what you please. The disgrace, if any, is yours, not mine. I
can't help my humble birth. But you might have conducted yourself in
accordance with the laws of honor. Now, if you will excuse me, I must
write a letter.
(Julien seats himself at a table and begins to write.)
Mathilde
Who are you writing to?
Julien
That's no concern of yours.
Mathilde
You are writing to another woman!
Julien
You have no right to question me about that any longer.
Mathilde
Who is it? I won't have you go from me to a servant.
Julien
Put yourself at ease, she is a woman of honor.
Mathilde
This is something I can't tolerate. You're forgetting me
completely. Me, your wife! Your conduct to me is horrible, Monsieur.
Julien
Ah, so now you call yourself my wife. The proud Mademoiselle de la
Mole is now the humble Madame Sorel. But, I note, Madame, though you
honor me, it is an honor that I have not solicited.
Mathilde
You can treat me like that? You know I love you. (she throws
herself into his arms) Punish me for my unspeakable pride. You're my
master; I'm your slave. Forgive me for trying to rebel. If you like
I'll go to my knees.
Julien
Someone might disturb us. We'll postpone that till later.
Mathilde
I must show you now. (she takes the letter opener and cuts off a
lock of hair) This is given you by your servant as a token of eternal
obedience. If ever I am led astray by my detestable pride, point to my
hair and say it's not a question of love, it's a question of duty.
Julien (overjoyed)
Mathilde, if only you knew how little I've enjoyed this
triumph, and how much it cost me not to . . . (he catches himself and
stops)
Mathilde
What's the matter, my darling?
Julien
I'm lying, and I'm lying to you. I reproach myself for it. God
knows, I respect you too much to lie to you. You love me, you're
devoted to me; I have no need to make set speeches to you.
Mathilde
Good Heavens! All those wonderful things you've been saying . . .
nothing but set speeches?
Julien
Yes. I invented them for a woman who bored me. Forgive me.
(Mathilde starts to cry.)
Julien
My detestable memory offers me resources, and I misuse them.
Mathilde (breathing hard)
That set speech. It was for the woman you were writing to?
Julien
I confess it.
Mathilde
Let me see the letter.
Julien
No.
Mathilde
Has she made you the same sacrifice that I have?
Julien
That is a question a man of honor cannot answer.
Mathilde (rushing to the table and opening the drawer)
Madame de Fervaques. Let us see if you have any letters from her.
(she stares) My God. Here are a dozen letters all addressed to her . .
. and not yet sent.
Julien
I plan my campaign in advance.
Mathilde
You despise her. You . . . a little nobody despise one of the
greatest ladies in France.
Julien
I knew you would start pulling rank again.
Mathilde
Do you love her?
Julien
Gratitude alone would be enough to attach me to her. She has
consoled me when I was despised.
Mathilde
Oh!
Julien
And your feelings are not to be trusted. The moment you feel I
love you as much as you love me, you start to despise me.
Mathilde
I will give you any guarantee that you like.
Julien
You just promised to be my slave, and within two minutes, you
assume the tone of a master.
Mathilde
Say what you want.
Julien
What guarantee will you give me that your love will last two days?
Mathilde
The intensity of my love, and my unhappiness, if you no longer
love me.
Julien
That's not enough.
Mathilde
I've offended you. You've a right to be angry with me. You want
guarantees, my darling . . . that's only fair. Elope with me. We'll go
to London. I'll be ruined forever. (this is not easy for her) All
right, dishonor me. That's a guarantee, isn't it?
Julien
And, how do I know, once you're dishonored, to use your expression
. . . my presence won't be unwelcome to you? I'm not a monster. I
don't wish to ruin your reputation. It's not your position in society
that's the obstacle, it's your character. One sign of affection from
me and you're ready to throw me over.
Mathilde (after a pause)
I hadn't intended to tell you this. And, I've been so upset, I'd
almost forgotten. I shall give you a guarantee you cannot doubt. You
are to be the father of my child. Do you doubt me now? I'm your wife,
forever.
Julien
Good God! And you were going to break with me anyway? (Mathilde
nods mutely) You were going to deprive me of my child? Well, then,
what were you gong to do?
Mathilde (crying)
I really hadn't thought about it. (childishly) To tell the truth,
I was more afraid of your finding out how much I love you. I didn't
want to be your slave. (she sobs)
Julien
Why must you be a master or a slave. Couldn't you be an equal? Is
it so hard?
Mathilde
What are we going to do? I can't hide it more than another month.
Julien
Well, I won't let my child be murdered. I won't have it . . . do
you hear?
Mathilde
Who said anything about that? Do you think I'd give up our child?
Julien
Then, what will you do?
Mathilde
I'm going to write to my father.
Julien
Are you mad?
Mathilde
He's more than a father to me: he's a friend. I think it would be
unworthy of both of us to try to deceive him . . . even for a moment.
In fact, I'll tell him now.
Julien
What are you going to do?
Mathilde (proudly)
My duty!
Julien
But, he'll drive me out of the house in disgrace.
Mathilde
That's his right, and we must respect it. I'll give you my arm,
and we'll walk out the front door together, in broad daylight.
Julien
Wait a while, anyway.
Mathilde
I can't. My duty is clear.
Julien
Then, I order you to wait. Your honor is safe. I'm your husband.
That step is momentous; we must think it through.
Mathilde (scornful)
You mean to say 'think of what he may do.'
Julien
I pity him. He has been my benefactor, but I do not fear him. I
owe him considerable gratitude. He procured this medal for me.
Mathilde
It's going to come out, Julien. It's got to. And, it's better we
are frank. (she pulls a bell cord and a servant appears) Ask my father
to step in here, please.
(The servant bows and goes out.)
Mathilde
Be sure that whatever happens, I will stand by you.
Marquis (entering)
Is something wrong, dear? You look so solemn.
Mathilde
I dread some things I must say to you. I fear you will be upset.
Marquis
What can you have done to upset me? After all, I'm your father.
Mathilde
I shall cry, when I think of the pain I shall cause you.
Marquis
There, there. I know you love me more than anyone.
Mathilde
After my husband, you are, and always will be, the dearest person
in all the world to me.
Marquis
What are your talking about? You haven't married without my
consent, have you?
Mathilde
Not exactly.
Marquis
Julien, you're a sensible person. Maybe you can make some sense
out of this. She's married, but not exactly?
(Julien shrugs.)
Mathilde
I'm pregnant, father.
Marquis
Well, who is it? De Croisenois! Well, it can easily be managed.
But, why do you tell me in front of Monsieur Sorel?
Mathilde
I shall not be a duchess, father. If your affection for me will
grant me a small allowance, I will live anywhere you say, Switzerland
for example, with my husband. His name is so obscure that no one will
recognize your daughter in Madame Sorel.
Marquis (stunned)
Are you telling me, that you've allowed yourself to be indiscreet
with a sawyer's son?
Mathilde
I'm telling you, so that it can be kept from becoming public. So
that you will have time to act.
Marquis (to Julien)
You vile little seducer.
Mathilde
He is not. I loved him first. It was I who seduced him. As for his
being a sawyer's son . . . I have inherited too noble a heart from you
to place my affections on anyone who is vulgar.
Marquis
Aren't there hundreds of men of your own class with whom you could
fall in love, if you had to . . . Haven't I surrounded you with them?
Mathilde
Yes, and you put true merit before my eyes, too. Why did you do
it, then . . . to torment me? if you did not want me to love? Have not
you, yourself, praised him above all others?
Marquis
My head is spinning.
Mathilde
Why do you pretend to respect these nobles more than Julien? They
are afraid of everything . . . they are persons of second class. All
they aspire to is my fortune. How very heroic! Between Julien and me
there is no contract, no middle class ceremony . . . everything is
heroic. It's like the love of Marguerite of Valois for Boniface de la
Mole.
Marquis
This comes from your romantic notions. Oh, that I ever let you
read a history book.
Mathilde
Is it my fault that men of my class are frightened even of
ridicule? My Julien likes to act alone. He despises others, and that
is why I don't despise him. I am a weak woman, but at least I wasn't
led astray by his looks like a school girl. It wasn't his looks that
seduced me, but his mind, his talk of revolution.
Marquis
Revolution. What next!
Mathilde
If there's a revolution, why shouldn't Julien be another Danton.
Why shouldn't I be a Madame Roland?
Marquis
A Danton! Why not a Robespierre? I'm sure he's capable of having
us all guillotined. My daughter and a Robespierre. (quietly) You're
mad.
Mathilde
An ordinary girl would have sought her man among the social
butterflies that pass for men. As Julien's companion, I'll continually
attract attention. Instead of living in fear of revolution . . . like
our cousins, who are afraid even to scold their servants . . . I'll
play a leading part in it.
Marquis
Oh, you want to be a revolutionary, too?
Mathilde
What does he lack? Money? I'll give it to him. I've already shown
great boldness by daring to fall in love with him, a man beneath my
station. You think I'm a fool. But, I'd be a fool to marry de
Croisenois. What good is a love that makes you yawn? I might as well
become pious.
Marquis
So, you want to marry this little Robespierre?
Mathilde
Yes, yes, yes, yes. Suppose there is another revolution. What part
will de Croisenois and my brother play? It's written in advance;
sublime resignation. They'd let themselves be slaughtered, without a
word. It would be bad form to fight. My little Julien would shoot the
Jacobin who came to arrest him, if he had the slightest hope of
escaping. He's not afraid of showing bad form.
Marquis
No, that he's not. If only he could die by some accident, we could
still arrange . . .
Mathilde
If he's dead, I'll die, too. It's you who'll be the cause of my
death. But, I swear to you, I'll go into mourning for him and publicly
make myself known as his widow. I'll send out funeral cards. You can
count on it. You know my character.
Marquis
Can't you see, he's nothing but a little adventurer. And, I
trusted him.
Mathilde
And rightly so. He has always been loyal. You've always said so.
Marquis
Only in appearance. He's planned this all along. He's after our
money, or perhaps, worse. He seeks to ruin us from spite. I'll never
let you marry him.
Mathilde
That's nonsense.
Marquis
I wouldn't have believed it myself, if I hadn't received this
letter barely an hour ago.
Julien
What letter?
Marquis
It's from Madame de Reynal, whose children you tutored. It reads:
'Dear Marquis, I must warn you of a young man you have placed great
trust in. Formerly, as you know, he was employed in this household. I
fear it is his habit to seduce the women of the house. I have been
brought by religion to confess my shame.'
Mathilde
I know all about that. It's not what you think.
Marquis
It's exactly what I think. How can you be so blind? I prefer you
to bear a bastard. I will never permit you to marry him.
Julien (strangled)
I have been betrayed. (he picks up the letter opener and runs out)
Mathilde
Julien, what are you going to do? Let me go after him. Julien!
What are you going to do?
(The Marquis prevents her from following him, as the Curtain drops.)
Fouque
That stupid jury.
Julien
The crime was premeditated. I stabbed Madame de Reynal in cold
blood.
Fouque
Yes, but you didn't have to stir up the jury against you.
Julien
Why shouldn't I tell them what I think of them? Every one of them
a bourgeois. 'Gentlemen of the Jury, I have no mercy for you. I have
no illusions: death is awaiting me and it will be just. I am guilty of
attempting to kill a lady worthy of the highest respect. Madame de
Reynal had been like a mother to me. My crime was atrocious, it was
premeditated. I, therefor, deserve death. But, even if I were
innocent, I see men among you who want to punish me and discourage
forever men of my class who have had the boldness to mingle with you.
That is my crime, gentlemen. In this jury, I do not see a single
peasant who has grown rich by his own efforts. I see only members of
the middle class whom I have outraged.'
Fouque
But, don't you see, they hadn't even thought of their class
interest until you called it to their attention? They were
sympathetic. People knew you were her lover. They thought you were
jealous.
Julien
And, was I to let them think that? Let me go on living in my
dreams. A man dies as best he can. My relations with other people will
soon be cut short. It's enough I have to be degraded standing before
them. I don't have to respect them. I don't have to perform for them.
Fouque
Why won't you agree at least to Mathilde's plan to bribe the guard
and escape? And, for God's sake, why don't you sign your appeal? Even
now, if you sign the appeal, the execution will be delayed. It's
irregular, but with Mademoiselle de la Mole's money . . .
Julien
What is the point of living another six weeks, at most? At any
rate, I consider myself rightly condemned to death. I tried to kill
the only woman I ever loved, out of ambition.
Fouque
So, it's remorse.
Julien
I abandoned Louise for a woman that . . . no, that's not true,
either. I don't hate Mathilde; but I don't love her. I was in the grip
of a strange passion. It seems I have not been true to either of the
two women who love me. And, they are the only ones who ever did. Do
you know, my father hated me? We did each other as much harm as we
could. He came here last night, and the only way I could think to get
rid of him was to tell him I'd left him some money in my will. You
should have seen how he changed. He'd been cursing me for disgracing
the family. Suddenly, he was entirely reconciled to me.
Fouque
How horrible. How unnatural.
Julien
Horrible, yes, but not unnatural. There's nothing that's natural
except the strength of a lion. My father, despite his avarice is a
strong man. He's worth a hundred of those snivelling idiots on the
jury. Someday he'll show people his gold and say, 'At this price,
which of you wouldn't be delighted to have his son guillotined?'
Fouque
Julien, don't think like that.
Julien
And I applaud him for it. I applaud him for having the courage to
know what he is. I have always loved truth, and hypocrisy is
everywhere. He's honest, anyway. That's something. If only there were
a true religion . . . perhaps in a true Christianity where the priests
are paid no more than the Apostles. But, that's nonsense . . . Saint
Paul was paid with the pleasure of commanding, talking and making
others listen. What a fool I am! I see a gothic Cathedral with ancient
stained glass windows and my heart imagines the priest who goes with
those windows. My soul would understand him. My soul needs him. But,
what do I find? A conceited fool with dirty hair!
Fouque
Julien, you shouldn't talk about the Church like that.
Julien
Why not? Who better than I? I've lived around priests all my life!
Fouque
What about Father Pirard?
Julien
A very worthy man. But he's a stoic, not a Christian. And he's
better than any of them. How is it possible to believe in a God that
is served by such men?
Fouque
Calm down, Julien, I beg you.
Julien
And which God, anyway? Certainly not the God of the Bible. Better
to live and die in isolation . . .
Fouque
What are you saying, Julien?
Julien
Haven't I always lived in isolation? Ah, but it's unjust. I cursed
their hypocrisy. But, all my life I've only studied to go them one
better. My life has been one long hypocrisy. I'm depressed.
Fouque
Most men are at such a time.
Julien
It's not death that's depressing. I have nothing to live for now.
If only I hadn't been a fool. If only I'd had sense and had five more
years of life to live with Louise. It's amazing I thought I wanted to
kill her over that letter. Now, I'd like nothing better than to live
with her on a few hundred francs a year in some little village like
Verge.
Fouque
So, you loved her more than this aristocratic girl?
Julien
Yes, but you must promise me not to tell Mathilde what I have told
you. Mathilde is a queen and I owe her much. She loves me, and I
respect her. She made a great sacrifice of pride in choosing a beggar
like me. In fact, it's the greatest compliment anyone has ever paid
me. She is my wife, but not the mistress of my heart.
Fouque
That must be your wife I hear now. I'll wait outside.
(Fouque leaves.)
Julien
The trouble with being in prison is that you can't refuse
visitors.
Mathilde (entering, running to his arms)
That infamous lawyer betrayed me. He promised he would bribe your
guard, but he lied and pocketed the money.
Julien
Well, well, it will all be over soon. (reciting)
'By virtue of the right That a steadfast heart imbued with vast
designs Has o'er the cruder minds of common men . . .' (talking) It's
really amusing. Since I've been doomed to die, all the poetry I've
ever learned in my life has been coming back to me. It must be a sign
of decay.
Mathilde
Oh, Julien, don't despair.
Julien
Despair. Why should I? Wasn't I admirable the other day before the
jury? I was improvising . . . for the first and last time in my life.
I lack the advantage of your noble birth, but your lofty soul has
raised me to your level. Do you think that Boniface de la Mole behaved
any better before his judges, hey?
Mathilde
What do I care about Boniface de la Mole? I want to get you out of
here!
Julien
I'm afraid that won't work. No one knows the source of the Nile,
and no one will ever see Julien Sorel weak. Because he isn't weak.
Mathilde
Will you stop this ridiculous posturing and listen to me? We're
not done for yet. I've a new lawyer. He's waiting outside.
Julien
Dear girl, this is the last time I shall feel that noble heart of
yours . . .
Mathilde
Will you listen to me? He's waiting outside.
Julien
Who's waiting?
Mathilde
The lawyer. There's still time to sign your appeal. It's late, but
they'll predate it. It's all agreed.
Julien
I won't appeal.
Mathilde
What? Would you please tell me why not!
Julien
Because, now I feel I am ready to die without giving others too
much cause for laughter. Who knows whether I'd be in such good
condition two months from now. Moreover, I foresee visits from
priests. What could be more distasteful?
Mathilde
What right have you to die, unless I give you permission?
Julien (smiling)
Mathilde, Mathilde, Heaven owed it to the glory of your
lineage to let you be born a man. Look, in a few short minutes I'll
fight a duel with a character who's noted for his coolness and
remarkable skill. Very remarkable. He's never missed once.
Mathilde
What is wrong with you? Where is your ambition? Your will? Oh, can
I have been wrong about you? Are you a coward?
(Mathilde bursts into tears.)
Julien
You know better. But what can I hope for, even if I escape? I am a
common murderer and my name will follow me everywhere. You say my
ambition is gone. Indeed, it has. For what more can I do than live?
And, if I can do no more than live, what's the use of living? You see
that, Mathilde? You must see that?
Mathilde
You're so cruel. What about me? What about the baby?
Julien
You will marry Monsieur de Croisenois, or someone like him.
Mathilde
What, after I've been dishonored?
Julien
Dishonor cannot stain a name like yours. You'll be a widow, and
the widow of a madman, that's all. It won't stand in your way. You'll
make a brilliant career.
Mathilde
If you die, I'll die with you. What would people say if I didn't?
They'll compare us to Romeo and Juliet. To Marguerite of Valois and
Boniface de la Mole.
Julien
I forbid you to take your own life. You must take care of our
child. Do you hear? Promise me.
Mathilde
You are very cruel. Very well, I promise.
Julien
Good. Fifteen years from now, you'll regard the love you once felt
for me as an excusable folly. But, a folly all the same.
Mathilde
Are you trying to torment me? How can you think things like that,
let alone say them?
Julien
Perhaps one day, they'll abolish the death penalty. Then my memory
won't be so infamous. I'll die. I deserve death.
Mathilde
How can you feel remorse for that woman? It was a noble vengeance.
Julien
I loved her once. Ah, Mathilde, you'll make a handsome widow.
Mathilde
A widow who will not be given to much gaiety, I am afraid. For she
has lived to see that her husband no longer loves her.
Julien
What?
Mathilde
You love her. I see it now. That's why you've given up. (she
starts to cry again)
(The cell door opens. Fouque, a Jailer, and a Priest enter.)
Fouque
It's time, Julien.
Priest Repent, my son . . . think of the good your repentance will do. Think of the example.
Julien
Get that fellow away from me.
Priest Think of the effect of your spectacular conversion.
Julien
And, what will I have left, if I despise myself? I was ambitious;
I don't regret it. I acted in accordance with the standards of my
time. Come, sir. (to the Jailer) My soul is ready.
Jailer So is la Guillotine. Do you want a Mask?
Julien
That will be unnecessary.
(Mathilde runs to kiss him.)
Julien (breaking past)
See to her, Fouque.
(Julien exits with the Jailer and the Priest, who has not given up.)
Mathilde
I want to see it.
Fouque
Are you sure it's wise?
Mathilde
I am not about to argue with you.
Fouque
We can watch from the cell window.
(They stand watching.)
Fouque
Now, he is on the scaffold.
(A thud.)
Fouque
And now?
Mathilde
With God.
CURTAIN