The Red and the Black

Adapted from Stendhal By F. J. MORLOCK

  • ACT I
  • Scene i. The apartment of the Bishop.
  • Scene ii. Some years later.
  • Scene iii. Fouque's humble lodgings.
  • Scene iv. The Reynal garden. Several months later.
  • ACT II
  • ACT III
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    http://www.cadytech.com/dumas/personnage.asp?key=130
    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
    

    ACT I

    Scene i. The apartment of the Bishop.

    A young man in priestly attire is practicing benedictions before a mirror.

    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.)

    Scene ii. Some years later.

    Monsieur Reynal's garden.

    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.

    Scene iii. Fouque's humble lodgings.

    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.)

    Scene iv. The Reynal garden. Several months later.

    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

    ACT II

    Scene i. The Seminary.

    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.

    Scene ii. A balcony in the Marquis' palace. The balcony opens on a courtyard.

    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)

    Scene iii. The Ball. Later the same night.

    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

    ACT III

    Scene i. The balcony.

    Mathilde enters, followed by Julien.

    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.)

    Scene ii. Julien's cell; an hour before dawn.

    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