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CHARACTERS IN THE PROLOGUE:
Ituriel, angel of the moon
Oscar, genius of marriage
A Vampire
Vampires
Phantoms
CHARACTERS IN THE PLAY:
Lord Rutwen
Sir Aubrey, Lord of Staffa
Malvina, his sister
Brigitte, Malvina's old governess
Edgar, Sir Aubrey's valet de chambre
Scop, Sir Aubrey's servant
Petterson, overseer of Marsden Castle
Lovette, his daughter
Oscar
Servants
Villagers
The overture portrays a storm.
At rise, the heaven is dark and all objects confused. It lights up little by little. The scene takes place in a basalt grotto whose long prisms end in unequal angles facing heaven, the arch is bare; the circle of the grotto is strewn with tombs and diverse shapes, columns, pyramids, cubes of rough and clumsy workmanship.
On a tomb in the foreground, one sees a young girl lying on a bed, plunged in the most profound sleep. Her head is leaning on her arm and covered by her veil and hair.
Opposite her, Oscar is seated. He rises and paces about the stage uneasily. The light progressively increases. A shape that embraces a luminous cross arises in the grotto and stops. The angel of the moon, in a floating white robe, addresses Oscar.
Ituriel
What do I see? Is it you, my dear Oscar? You, the genius, the
protector of marriage in these dreadful parts that I myself fear to
light up? Yes, all the lugubrious scenes of the night whose starry
escort serves to dissipate the horror doesn't affright me until I
approach the grottos of Staffa. When the first rays of the moon break
on the dazzling snow of the summits of Caledonia, I shiver despite
myself—and the sight of these tombs seizes me with a horror I am still
unable to explain to myself.
Oscar
Grace be rendered you, Ituriel. Your arrival consoles me and
reassures me—for as for me, I can no longer defend myself against an
invincible horror in this dwelling. But, do I need to tell you what
case brought me here? Let one of your glances fall on this tomb.
Ituriel
What do I see? A young girl sleeping in these parts where all
breathe uncertainty and terror.
Oscar
You don't yet know all the secrets. This young girl is Miss Aubrey,
the most beautiful and the richest heiress in Scotland. Tomorrow she
must marry Count Marsden who possesses vast lands—superb—in Scotland
and who is known throughout Europe, which he's just crossed, by the
renown of his wit and the perfection of his qualities.
Ituriel
What strange luck brought her into these solitudes?
Oscar
The Count de Marsden is not expected until tomorrow. Miss Aubrey
was following the hunt with her brother, when the terrible storm arose
that your first rays had so much difficulty dissipating. You know,
heaven was on fire, the earth trembling and the sea shaking to the
depth of its abysses.
Ituriel
Then, it's you who saved her. Ah! I recognize you in this case—but
what are you doing in the midst of the ices of Staffa?
Oscar
No spot on earth fixes my attention more than this, when it's a
question of marriage—and that an innocent young girl, unaware of the
misfortunes that are reserved for her, is ready to fall from the arms
of love to those of death.
Ituriel
Explain yourself. Is it true that horrible ghosts can sometimes,
under the appearance of the rights of marriage, cut the throat of a
timid virgin—and drink her blood?
Oscar
These monsters call themselves Vampires. A power, whose inscrutable
decrees we are not permitted to scrutinize, has permitted that certain
funereal souls—doomed to torments that their excesses have attracted
on earth, play with this terrible right that they exercise by
preference on the virginal bed and on the cradle as soon as they
descend, formidable, with the hideous power that death has given them.
By and by, more privileged because their career is short and their
future frightening, they obtain, and assume, shapes lost in the tomb
and reappear in the light of the living—under the aspect of bodies
they have animated.
Ituriel
And this young unfortunate was pursued?
Oscar
Wandering shades of Vampires, in the clouds of the night, have
increased by their clamors the tumult of the storm. Some insidious
voices, though internal, have misled her steps to the grotto of Staffa.
She rushed there to find an asylum against the storm, when chance
caused my eyes to fall on her from the highest celestial regions. I
followed her to save her.
Ituriel
And these monsters have appeared?
Oscar
The first hour of day wakens them in their sepulchres. Once the
reverberation of the hour struck has expired in all the echoes of the
mountain, they fall back, motionless into their eternal dwellings. But
there's one amongst them on whom my power is more limited. What am I
saying? Destiny itself never can recall his decrees. After having
brought desolation to twenty separate lands, always vanquishing, always
living, always more thirsty for the blood which preserves his frightful
existence, in thirty-six hours, at the first hour of evening, he must
finally submit to nothingness, a legitimate punishment for a train of
insoluble crimes, if he cannot join to him one more crime, and add yet
another victim.
Ituriel
Nothingness!
Oscar
The most severe of punishments inflicted by the Great Spirit. And
as his future is without resources, he has all the resources of the
present. He can take all shapes—assume all languages, use all
seductions. Nothing of the appearance of life is lacking in him, but
death, which never abandons its prey entirely, has imprinted its mark
on his face. And even this is hidden from the eyes of those he wishes
to deceive.
Ituriel
Alas! What do you hope to do? Our power is limited—and the realms
of death are sacred to us.
Oscar
They are not shut to divine justice. Since a term was placed on the
crimes of the Vampire—why can't I halt this course? Whatever may be
the duties which call me elsewhere, don't be astonished to find me two
or more times in Scotland.
Ituriel
Ah—may you succeed in your plans! Your conversation has kept me a
long while above these grottos.
(A distant clock can be heard sounding one o'clock in a tone. The
gong repeats it echo by echo.)
Oscar
Stop and look.
(All the tombs open from the moment the hour strikes. Pale shades
half leave and fall back under the tombstones, in proportion as the
noise vanishes in echoes. A spectre dressed in a shroud escapes from
the most noticeable of the tombs. His face is revealed. He rushes to
the place where Miss Aubrey is sleeping shouting “Malvina!”)
Oscar
Withdraw.
Spectre She belongs to me.
Oscar (seizing the young sleeping girl)
She belongs to God, and soon you will belong to nothingness.
Spectre (withdrawing, but threatening still as he repeats)
Nothingness.
(Ituriel crosses the stage in a cloud.)
All light vanishes. The scenery changes and represents one of Sir Aubrey's apartments.
BLACKOUT
Hall in the Castle of Staffa.
Brigitte
Come, rest yourselves in this hall, children. Our young mistress
has been found—she's resting in her apartment.
Scop
Heaven be praised!
Brigitte
You must be really worn out.
Edgar
By God! After having beaten the forest all night.
Brigitte
Here's something that will refresh you.
Scop
Much obliged, Miss, for I feel myself hoarse from having shouted on
all sides: “Miss Aubrey”—only echoes replied to us.
Edgar
Indeed, it is surprising that she didn't hear us. What time did she
return?
Brigitte
After two in the night. It seems she wandered off yesterday
evening— at the end of the hunt—and then the storm surprised her. She
finally met her brother in the vicinity of the castle—and they
returned together, by the little gate in the park which gives on the
footpath to the grotto.
Scop
The Goodness of Heaven! She got lost near the grottos!
Edgar
By Saint George. It must be that it was the only part of the forest
that we didn't search. That idiot never wanted us to go on that side.
Scop
Think of it! Heaven preserve me from night's approach by those
hellish grottos. The grottos of Staffa, the haunt of evil spirits!
Edgar
Eh, simpleton! As for me, I don't believe in spirits—
Scop
So much the worse for you—evil will happen to you—rather ask Miss
Brigitte.
Brigitte
It's true, since our arrival in this isle, I've heard tell of
ridiculous things on this subject.
Scop
Say frightful, terrifying! Don't you know the story of the last
heir of Staffa?
Edgar (drinking)
What happened to this heir?
Brigitte (mysteriously)
Peace! If someone heard us—
Scop
Ah! You know the story then?
Brigitte
No—But Sir Aubrey had threatened to kick out whoever discusses
these supernatural things—which he calls chimeras.
Edgar
My word, he's right. But at the moment he's not here, so go on,
Scop, satisfy the curiosity of Mrs. Brigitte. Tell us the story of this
heir.
Scop
I'm going to tell you about this, it's awfully pretty, but promise
me not to be afraid. Yes, you act brave—but as for me, only to think
of it give me gooseflesh. Here, come close and hold yourselves very
tight. Imagine, there was once a young girl who wanted to experience
marriage. This same young girl was affianced to a young and rich
Scottish Lord. The marriage celebration was prepared in this castle. It
was given as you must imagine on the wedding morning. In the evening,
the two lovers were walking in the forest. They took their path toward
the grottos—and they never came back again.
Edgar
Good!
Scop
Not at all. Never—they searched for them by land and sea. Where
were they then? Where were they? And the next day what did they find?
The body of the young girl all covered with blood, she had had her
throat cut. As for the young man, no one has heard him spoken of
since—and it was a hundred years ago. It's at that time that Staffa
Castle passed into the hands of Sir Aubrey's family.
Brigitte
Ah! My God! Do you know, this story is frightful?
Edgar
Those spirits, I think, were in cahoots with Sir Aubrey's ancestors
to make them have a rich inheritance.
Scop
It was a hundred years ago it happened. You are indeed thinking I
wasn't around then; but the great uncle of my grandfather had it from
the grandfather of my grandmother, so it's certain. If it had been the
heirs who had played a trick like that, they would have known it, but
instead, they say it was one of those horrible spirits who cause young
fiancées to perish—and that are called Vampires.
Edgar
All this is foolishness.
Brigitte
Ah, my God! Vampires—young fiancées—What kind of danger have I
exposed myself to? How imprudent I was.
Scop
How's that, Miss?
Brigitte
The other day, didn't I have the curiosity to visit that
grotto—and the boldness to go through it—accompanied only by the
Steward? I am no longer astonished if I experience amid those grottos a
certain emotion.
Scop (naively)
Go on, mistress! You risked nothing. Those spirits only want young
girls.
Brigitte
You aren't very gallant, Mr. Scop, but I am forgetting myself in
talking with you. If Lord Aubrey knew we were discussing these things,
he would put himself in a furious rage. The other day he told me: “If I
learn that you dare to repeat to my sister, the ridiculous stories you
hear in this country, I'll kick you out immediately.”
Scop
Let's indeed be careful of speaking loud.
Brigitte
Discretion, that's agreed. I am running to my mistress, who must
have need of me.
(Exit Brigitte.)
Scop
Say, Mr. Edgar, you who were in London with our master, do you know
this Lord who's come to marry Miss Malvina?
Edgar
No. All I know is his name's Lord Marsden.
Scop
From the castle which is on the coast facing this isle—where your
betrothed is from?
Edgar
Precisely.
Scop
He's arrived, then, almost precisely to be present at your wedding?
Edgar
He can honor them by his presence if he arrives today.
Scop
Then, we're going to see two weddings! How pleased I am! Because
we're going to dance—we're going to laugh. (drinking) To your bride,
Mr. Edgar.
Edgar
With all my heart. Now, to Miss Malvina. May she be as happy in her
marriage as she deserves.
Scop
Ah! God! I really think so, if ever I was her husband I would
really make her happy. That girl's an angel.
(Malvina and Brigitte enter.)
Malvina
Thanks a lot, my friends. They told me you took great care finding
me last night. I thank you for it.
Edgar
Ah! Miss, you are too good.
(They bow and leave.)
Brigitte
Truly, my dear mistress. I need for you to reassure me about your
condition. I'm afraid that fatigue and the coolness of the night may
have altered your health.
Malvina
No, my dear, I feel very well, I assure you.
Brigitte
You seem very worn down. Despite your smile, I see signs of
illness.
Malvina
It's true. I don't know what trouble is agitating me—but in truth,
I wouldn't dare to confide the subject to you. I fear seeming
ridiculous to you. This vague uneasiness I am experiencing is, I think,
the fruit of a dream.
Brigitte
Of a dream, you say? Ah! Sometimes heaven permits—(controlling
herself) Ah, Miss, after the education you have received, can such a
subject trouble you? (with curiosity) Then, the dream was very
frightening?
Malvina
Frightening! Yes, even horrible. Yesterday evening, lost in the
forest, my uncertain steps led me toward that famous grotto to which
the vulgar, they say, attach mysterious traditions. In the light from
lightning, I noticed I was near the entry of the grotto. I was seeking
refuge there to avoid the storm which announced to all it must pass. I
sat down on a rock covered with moss. I was overwhelmed with fatigue,
the darkness was complete. I fell asleep to the noise of winds which
whistled through the caverns and rain that struck the leaves of the
forest. Suddenly, it seemed to me that the grotto was lit up. It seemed
to me I could distinguish the depths of these hollows. I who had
intruded my life under its vaults. I admired the multiple colonnades,
the irregular and gigantic forms. When letting my gaze fall around me,
I saw the stones which compose the soil raise—as if by themselves.
Brigitte
Ah! Great God!
Malvina
Livid ghosts left these open tombs. One of them directed himself
toward me. A shiver seized me, but an invincible power held me
motionless—and I couldn't even turn my eyes away from the terrible
apparition. I envisaged it—O surprise! I saw the features of a
handsome young man. Only, he was pale and appeared ill. His eyes fixed
on me with the most touching expression—seeming to ask for my help.
The closer he approached me, the more the fear I had experienced
diminished. But when he was quite close, when his face almost seemed to
touch mine—O terror! His eyes became caves, shone with extraordinary
brilliance. His face decomposed, his features shattered, his lips
enlarged with a horrible convulsion. I thought my destiny was to be the
prey of a devouring monster.
Brigitte
Is it possible?
Malvina
In that frightful moment, an unknown power seemed to tear the ghost
from me. He returned to the ground. Uttering plaintive moans, I woke
up. My breathing was almost suffocated. I was covered with a cold
sweat. The storm had ceased. The moon lit the entry to the grotto, I
rushed out. Still terrified, I tried to remember my path, when an
honest old man met me and led me to the avenue. Then, I found my
brother and I returned with him to the castle.
Brigitte
That's a really terrifying dream. I am quite atremble. But you were
wrong to frighten yourself like that.
Malvina
What do you mean?
Brigitte
Yes, you found yourself alone at night. Ah, God! Ghosts! You
mustn't put faith in all they say; that's to frighten children. Ah, if
I had been there. I am still shivering. No, think no more of it! These
are stories you have heard—that explains everything.
Malvina
Still, there are some circumstances that I seek to explain to
myself. Didn't you tell me you had visited this grotto after we
arrived?
Brigitte
No doubt. I wandered through all the paths.
Malvina
In the hollow, to the right, under a sort of dome—does there exist
a black, pyramid shaped rock resembling a mausoleum?
Brigitte
Yes, that's what they call the tomb of Fingal—but it's situated in
the most obscure place—and can be seen only by the light of torches.
Malvina
Well, I saw it last night! It was from there the ghost issued, the
one that frightened me so much in my dream.
Brigitte
Now, that is really extraordinary, my dear mistress. But, here's
your brother, Miss. Give up all these ideas. They are visions! Hide
them from him, especially the subject which occupies us. A dream. Fie!
Malvina
Ah! I am very careful in speaking to him of it. He's such a great
enemy of what they call superstition that I don't want to expose myself
to his sarcasm.
(Enter Aubrey.)
Aubrey
Well, sis, are you completely recovered? What—already dressed? I
know your inclination for promptness. It's a good omen. Brigitte, go
tell them to set a man on the tower and let him warn me as soon as the
Count appears. (Brigitte leaves) This day, my dear Malvina, must
prepare for your happiness. But you seem sad—is this the way you plan
to receive your spouse?
Malvina
Ah, brother! The portrait given us of Marsden, with his qualities
and his virtues, suffices, doubtless to predispose us in his favor, but
the nearer the moment approaches, the more my uneasiness grows. My dear
Aubrey, don't forget that my fate was confided to you, don't risk
making me unhappy.
Aubrey
Malvina, your uneasiness is ill founded. Never, as you know, have I
sought to force your inclination. Everything makes me desire this
connection, but Count Marsden is coming here to obtain you only from
yourself and if he lacks the luck to please you—
Malvina
I didn't say that, brother. But you, who wish him to become my
spouse, don't know him.
Aubrey
It's true, but if he resembles his brother, who was my best friend,
he'll have no trouble touching your heart. His brother was the most
seductive man, the most likeable. No one could prevent themselves from
loving him. Unfortunate Rutwen!
Malvina
Every time you mention his name, you become tender.
Aubrey
Alas! How can I not eternally regret this generous, this touching
model of friendship? Are you unaware, sis, all that I owe him?
Malvina
You told me that he saved your life, and that very reason is,
doubtless, the cause of my heart being moved each time you speak to me
of him. But, are you very sure he no longer exists?
Aubrey
Ah! Would that I could preserve the least doubt. But, alas, that
fatal event will ceaselessly present itself to my thoughts. At the
period of my last voyage, I spent some time in Athens. I met Lord
Rutwen, an enthusiast, like me, for the beauties of nature. He became
the companion of my excursions and my pleasures. We were soon linked by
the strongest friendship. The more I knew him, the more I appreciated
his extraordinary qualities. This man seemed to have something more
than human about him. I wanted, I admit it, for stronger links to form
between us. I had brought your portrait. He admired it and was the
first to speak to me of this alliance I wanted. We were preparing to
return to Scotland to consult your feelings, when one evening—O
deplorable memory! Rutwen went to the country to be present, I believe,
to be present at the wedding of a young girl that his good works had
secretly dowered. I was returning, towards evening, with some servants,
about three miles from Athens to meet my friend. After a long delay he
arrived in disorder. “Let's flee,” he said to me. “These parts are
infested with brigands, I've just been pursued.” Hardly had he said
these words when we were assailed. My servants put two assassins to
flight. The last attacked us with fury. I found myself disarmed. He
threw himself between us. The brigand disappeared. I threw myself on
the body of my expiring friend. He said to me, clasping my hand, “I've
saved your life, I die content. I have only one regret, it's that of
not having the title of your brother.” Unlucky Rutwen, to have to
perish there in the flower of his age. So far from his fatherland and
to remain deprived of a sepulchre.
Malvina
What! You didn't render him funeral services?
Aubrey
An extraordinary circumstance prevented me from accomplishing this
last duty. Lying on the ground, near my unhappy friend, I bathed his
face with my tears. He said to me in a hoarse voice, “All help is
useless to me. Don't expose yourself by staying alone, near me, to this
danger of a new attack. Hasten to get away.” Then, considering the moon
was going to rise behind the clouds, he added, “Turn me towards the
night star and I will rejoice in dying with this last sight.” I placed
him, with some effort, on a neighboring hillock. Hardly had I placed
him there, than he expired. I got away to reunite with my servants. I
spent an hour looking for them. We returned to take his body—it was no
loner there.
Malvina
It was no longer there!
Aubrey
Only some trampled grass and red with blood, allowed me to
recognize the place where I had left him. I presumed the assassins had
carried off the cadaver to destroy the evidence of their crime. For two
months I made unfruitful searches. Finally I left Greece and learned
that Lord Marsden was in Venice. I wrote him and sent him the effects
of his unlucky brother, among which was found your portrait. He seemed
rather taken, in his turn, with your attractions and proposed to
replace Rutwen. This alliance not only honors us, but Lord Marsden is,
they tell me, on of the most favored lords at the court of the monarch.
Malvina
Would Rutwen still lived, brother! It seems to me what he did for
you already disposes me in his favor.
Brigitte (entering)
Milord, the Count of Marsden has just arrived at the castle.
Aubrey
Sister, let's go receive him.
Malvina
Ah, brother, allow me not to be present at his arrival. I am still
very upset.
Aubrey
Go back for a moment to your apartment. (to Brigitte) Brigitte,
accompany Malvina to her apartment. As for me, I fly before the Count.
But, it's too late, here he is himself.
(Rutwen enters.)
Aubrey
The honor you do me, My Lord. Heaven! What do I see? What a
resemblance!
Rutwen
Do my features remind Sir Aubrey of an old friendship?
Aubrey
It's his voice. I cannot doubt it. It's Rutwen.
Rutwen
Such was my name until the death of an older brother put me in
possession of the title of Marsden.
Aubrey
Can I believe my senses? Rutwen, are you the ghost of my old
friend?
Rutwen
My dear, Aubrey, come to my arms to take that doubt from you.
Aubrey
Great God! It's really true. But, is this possible? Didn't I leave
you for dead by the hills of Athens?
Rutwen
Powerful help preserved my existence. When I was able to get
together with you, you had left Greece. I learned some time later of
the death of my brother. Returned to London, I wrote you in his name,
and I wanted, when I arrived in Scotland, to take possession of his
inheritance to cause you a surprise that would be really sweet for both
of us.
Aubrey
What is my joy! I see my friend again, and my friend finds a friend
worthy of him in me. For, there's no doubt of it, Rutwen, it was still
you that I greeted as Marsden, and my sister, that I destined for you,
was only engaged to your brother to acquit my debt towards you.
Rutwen
Generous friend! But, do you believe I'll be lucky enough to please
the adorable Malvina?
Aubrey
I wouldn't doubt it. She was clearly touched by the story I told
her of your misfortunes. She wept with me, for the one she thought had
died for her brother. She will love you, Rutwen. In that generous heart
that is still free, gratitude will give birth to love.
Rutwen
Ah! May you not be flattering me with a vain hope. My friend, you
cannot imagine the happiness I am building on this marriage that your
friendship prepares for me. I feel, yes, my entire existence is
attached to it.
Aubrey
I recognize you well, Rutwen. Always enthusiastic, exalted. My
sister is simple—ignorant of passion—don't go frighten her.
Rutwen
I will control myself—to please her, if necessary to hide the
violence of my feelings. But, what's keeping me from the joy of her
sight?
Aubrey
She's coming. How surprised she will be.
(Enter Malvina and Brigitte.)
Aubrey, My dear sister, behold my incomparable friend, whose loss we were deploring this morning. By a miracle, he lives. It's he who saved my life. May love, by uniting you, pay the debt of gratitude.
Rutwen
Charming Malvina, never had friendship for your brother appeared
more precious to me than at this moment. But the prize he destined for
me is above the idea I had formed of it. The more I tremble not to
obtain it. Henceforth, my fate depends on a word from your mouth.
Malvina
My Lord, the life of a cherished brother. My duty. (she looks at
his face) Heaven! What do I see?
Aubrey
You're growing pale, Malvina. What's wrong with you? My friend,
she's ill.
Rutwen
Oh, heaven! What can cause this sudden emotion?
Brigitte
My dear mistress! Come to yourself.
Malvina
Ah, those features. The ghost of last night!
Brigitte
Mercy. Miss, control yourself. What an idea you've got.
Rutwen
Well, this trouble has dissipated.
Malvina
Ah, yes. How foolish I was, indeed. My Lord, excuse a passing
weakness due to an accident which happened to me last night.
Rutwen (astonished)
Last night!
Aubrey
It's only the effect of a little fatigue. We returned very late to
the castle, my sister and I. My friend, can't you see that your
appearance has made its accustomed impression?
Malvina (aside)
I don't know what sentiment agitates me in his presence.
Rutwen
Ah! Beautiful Malvina, reassure my heart. How should I interpret
this emotion?
Malvina
My Lord, the shock of seeing you alive, after having deplored your
death—
Rutwen
Is it possible that before meeting me the story of my sorrows
interested you in me?
Malvina
My Lord, how could I remain insensible to such touching devotion? I
am Aubrey's sister, and my heart—filled with gratitude. (aside) I
don't dare look at him.
Rutwen (taking her hand)
Gratitude! Ah, it's I alone who owe it here, my friend. And what
won't I owe him if your heart approves his generous plans. Ah, tell me
that you confirm them or I'll die at your feet.
Malvina
Ah! Heaven! This rapture—
Rutwen
Has nothing which can affright you. It's in the preserve of your
brother, it's with his consent that here I take this oath to adore you
until death. Oh, my friend, join your prayers to mine.
Aubrey
This union is the object of my dearest wishes. Malvina is not
ignorant of it—and your love may already have surpassed my authority.
Malvina (aside)
I don't know where I am—what inconceivable charm acts on me? Ah,
my goodness, if it's from love, why does it suffer?
Rutwen
Oh, my friend, my whole being is reassured by her sight. You know,
blasted by misfortunes, isolated on earth, you see me ever ready to
abandon, without regret, the nothingness which surrounds me to seek a
nothingness as yet unknown. This angel, this dream alone can attach me
to existence. It's with her that I am awaiting a new life. It seems to
me that I can already draw it in from her looks. Oh, Malvina, may your
sweet mouth confirm a hope so sweet.
Malvina
My Lord! Each of his words seems to echo to the bottom of my soul.
Rutwen
Eh! What—a word to assure me a certainty of happiness—and you
refuse it to me?
Malvina
My Lord! My brother can always count on my obedience.
Aubrey
And he takes it upon himself from your response. My friend, I
congratulate you. Can't you read your victory in the trouble in her
eyes?
Rutwen
I am at the height of joy. Ah, Miss, do you consent then?
Malvina
Ah, brother, don't abuse my confusion. Let me retire, I beg you.
Brigitte
This Lord is very fine, my dear mistress. I have a very good
opinion of him.
(Exit Malvina and Brigitte.)
Aubrey
Rutwen, my wishes are fulfilled; we are going to be brothers.
Rutwen
My generous friend, there remains one thing for me to ask of you:
that my marriage be concluded without delay.
Aubrey
That's my plan. I am going to hasten the preparations and tomorrow,
if my sister doesn't raise any obstacles—
Rutwen
Tomorrow! Until tomorrow!
Aubrey
It's really the least—how eager you are!
Rutwen
I am forced to hasten. I can only live a short time in this
country.
Aubrey
You astonish me.
Rutwen
Matters of the greatest importance recall me to London.
Aubrey
But, still, the term you've fixed—
Rutwen
In short, I have only thirty-six hours to spend with you.
Aubrey
That's not believable. You told me you were coming to take
possession of your brother's goods.
Rutwen
It will suffice for me to present myself at Castle Marsden and the
distance is not great. I could be there and return here before the end
of the day.
Aubrey
My surprise is extreme! Can't you explain to me?
Rutwen
You will learn much later the reasons that oblige me to make this
prayer to you, but let us begin, my friend. Go, rejoin your sister, and
decide her.
Aubrey
There's nothing I can refuse you. Still, I fear my sister may be
frightened by this precipitateness.
Rutwen
Know that my existence will be compromised by the least delay. If
this life of your friend is dear to you—
Aubrey
You make me shiver! You must reveal this strange mystery to me!
But, friendship speaks and shelves curiosity. I rush to plead your
cause. Later, I will hear your reasons.
(Aubrey leaves. Rutwen walks about in agitation, hand on his face.
Then, Edgar, who was at the back of the stage, comes forward.)
Edgar
Milord!
Rutwen
What do you want?
Edgar
Allow me to demand your protection. I am one of the servants of Sir
Aubrey.
Rutwen
In what way can I protect you?
Edgar
I am going to marry the daughter of the keeper of your Castle
Marsden. They say that you are disposed to visit your domain.
Rutwen (excitedly)
His daughter is your fiancée?
Edgar
Yes, Milord.
Rutwen
And, when are you having the wedding?
Edgar
Tonight, Milord.
Rutwen (with concentrated joy)
Tonight!
Edgar
Yes, Milord.
Rutwen
I will be there.
Edgar
Oh! Milord, respect prevents me from begging you, but if your
Lordship would deign to do us the honor of signing the contract—Sir
Aubrey has indeed wanted to provide me the same favor.
Rutwen
I'll be doing myself a pleasure.
Edgar
Ah! Milord, how good—
Rutwen
How much time do we need to return to Marsden?
Edgar
The sea is calm. We have good oarsmen, the plan could be
accomplished in less than an hour.
Rutwen
Ready a boat; and tell my people to prepare to depart.
Edgar
I am going to execute that order, Milord.
(Exit Edgar, Aubrey returns.)
Aubrey
Everything is arranged, my friend. Tomorrow we will have the
wedding!
Rutwen (joyous)
Your sister consents, too. (aside) Two fiancées!
Aubrey
I've ordered that everything be prepared in the chapel of the
castle tonight, on our return.
Rutwen
You want to accompany me?
Aubrey
You are staying such a short time with me, that I can't consent to
our being separated a single moment.
Rutwen
Worthy friend, you enchant me.
Edgar (returning)
Milord, everything is ready for the departure.
Aubrey
Come on, let's go. You will inform me on the way of the
extraordinary reason for your hurried departure.
(In the back a boat can be seen. Rutwen and Aubrey get in it.)
CURTAIN
The stage represents a farm house. It is open in the back, but a small wall crosses the stage and guards the entrance. Above it are mountains covered with snow and ice. In the midst, a small path leading to the summit.
AT RISE, Petterson and Lovette are surrounded by young girls who are finishing putting on their finery.
Lovette (excitedly)
Well, father! Father, have you seen Edgar? He must have arrived.
Petterson (smiling)
Not yet, my dear Lovette. Give him time to finish the trip.
Lovette
It's really bad of him. When he was in love, he came from Castle
Aubrey in two hours.
Petterson
You think he no longer loves you?
Lovette
Ah, my good father—don't tell me that. I would die of chagrin. But
because the gentleman must get married today, he's in no hurry. They
tell me all of these villainous men are like that.
Petterson
Come on—don't get annoyed. The preparations for your wedding are
not yet finished.
Lovette
But, father, it seems to me that the husband is the essential
thing.
Petterson
Your toilette is at least as important, and it isn't yet over since
this morning.
Lovette
Oh, it's not finished. Go away! To punish him, I'm going to make
myself even more pretty. (to her companions) Put this little hat,
ribbons and flowers on me. Ah, Mr. Edgar, you like to wait—I'm going
to scold you—I'll play the coquette. But father, you stay there. See
if you don't notice him on the hill. Perhaps something bad has happened
to him.
(Voices offstage: There's Edgar, there's Edgar.)
Lovette (rising)
Ah, my God. There he is.
Edgar (entering, followed by young men)
Ah, My good Lovette.
Petterson
Finish up, Mr. Intended.
Lovette
Ah, how long you've been!
Edgar (hugging her)
Pardon, pardon! My heart was always with you.
Lovette (pulling back)
Well! What am I doing! As for me, I intended to scold you.
Edgar
I was forced to accompany my master, who is returning here. Ah, my
God, Mr. Petterson, I was forgetting to tell you—Sir Aubrey is coming
here with Lord Rutwen.
Petterson (very surprised)
Rutwen! He's not dead?
Edgar
No. Those rumors are often false.
Petterson
Still, his brother, our good Lord who wept for him at every moment.
Ah! What a misfortune that he'd loved him so much—he's perhaps dead of
chagrin to survive him.
Edgar
This one seems good. He ought to be as virtuous as his brother. He
will console you for having lost him.
Sir Aubrey (entering)
Ah! My dear Petterson, you've been informed of the happy return of
Rutwen.
Petterson
What, Milord, they don't dare say he's still alive? They are trying
to betray you. Alas, it's only too true that the brother of the Count
was murdered in Rome.
Aubrey
Who told you at Rome? You are mistaken. It was at Athens.
Petterson
He was really at Rome. His poor brother expected—
Lovette
Oh, yes, Milord. It was really at Rome, since his brother wanted to
go there to die.
Aubrey
I have trouble conceiving the strange error you are in. Athens is
the place which ought to shroud his mortal remains. I cannot abuse
myself —it was at my side that death struck him. The fatal blow was
destined for me.
Petterson
How is it that all the reports made to us at this time agreed in
naming Italy? I cannot believe in his existence. Pardon, Lord Aubrey,
but are you really convinced this is the true Rutwen?
Aubrey (smiling)
Fear nothing. The heart doesn't wander easily—and you know I am
difficult to fool. But, I noticed on my arrival that you are preparing
a celebration.
Petterson
Today we are celebrating the marriage of Edgar and Lovette.
Aubrey
Well, may the wedding feast also be that of his return.
Petterson
No, Count, it is impossible that Lord Rutwen still exists, for even
we've had news of his fate. No, no—it's impossible.
Edgar
You are quite opinionated. But my dear Petterson, would you
recognize his features?
Petterson
Ah, no doubt; they are engraved in my heart. He too much resembles
his brother for me ever to forget them.
Edgar
Your eyes may convince your mind which is a little too made up.
Petterson
No, count, I cannot have faith.
(Voices outside: Long live Milord.)
Edgar
Do you hear the gay shouts of his vassals?
Petterson
The man who had taken his name is an impostor.
(Enter Rutwen, followed by villagers.)
Petterson
What do I see? Is it really he? Ah, Milord—What, speak to me, talk
to me—say you are Lord Rutwen.
(A moment of silence.)
Rutwen
Yes, good Petterson, you recognize the features of Rutwen, though
they are blasted with misfortune.
Petterson (falling to his knees)
I recognize you now, pardon, but I didn't dare believe in the joy
of pressing, of blessing this so cherished hand.
Rutwen
Arise, Petterson. My heart is touched by your proofs of friendship
and I shall know how to recognize the attachment that you have always
borne to my family. Especially, I beg you, don't let my presence
interfere with your happiness. You are going to celebrate a wedding?
Petterson
Yes, Milord. Here's the intended and my little Lovette is the
fiancée.
Rutwen (aside)
Another fiancée—and in twenty-four hours.
Aubrey
The fiancée is charming.
Lovette
Oh! Oh! Milord, you are—
(Lovette curtsies and Rutwen fixes his gaze on her.)
Edgar (in a low voice)
Shut up, Coquette, and lower your eyes.
Lovette (excitedly)
I forbid you to be jealous today.
Edgar
Well, I promise you—
Petterson
Come, children. Go deliver yourselves to pleasure, to the dance.
(A light thundering can be heard.)
Rutwen
Why send them away? I want to share their intoxication. You will
allow me to dower the young fiancée and myself to place the crown on
her head. Marriages are celebrations for me.
All
Long live Milord.
(The thunder increases.)
Edgar (going to a window)
Ah, my God. What a storm. The thunder, the rain.
Lovette
How annoying this is! We won't be able to go dance in the valley.
Petterson
Milord, it will be impossible for you to return in a reasonable
hour— at the risk of becoming lost or falling in some precipice.
Aubrey
The day is advanced. Nothing prevents us from spending the night
here.
Rutwen
The night? What! You delay my happiness?
Aubrey
What does it matter, my friend? A day the sooner, a day the later—
Rutwen
A day the later!
Petterson
Milord, give in to our wishes. We are eager for the pleasure of
possessing you.
Aubrey
Come on, surrender yourself to their prayers. Anyway, the storm
won't allow us to leave this place.
Rutwen (who has not ceased to look at Lovette)
Well, since heaven wishes it, I consent to spend the night with
you.
(Petterson gives a sign; they form a platform for Rutwen. The ballet
is ready to begin—when one hears the notes of the harp. Curious, Edgar
goes to the back to see what this can be, then returns.)
Edgar
Milord, it's a poor bard—an old man that the storm had forced to
seek refuge. He asks to rest.
Petterson
Allow it, Milord. His songs could please you.
Rutwen
I consent with a good heart.
Lovette
Ah! How satisfied I am! Sometimes they have very pretty songs.
Rutwen (aside)
God! How beautiful this fiancée is!
(The Bard [Oscar] enters. An old man whose venerable head inspires
respect. His demeanor has something imposing and mysterious in it.)
Oscar
Many thanks, good young man. May the angel of peace always protect
you as the cedar protects the shrub. (he comes forward, considers
Rutwen and says, quite low) There he is!
Petterson
Sit there, worthy son of Ossian.
Lovette (giving him something to drink)
Have some, grandpa, and then you will tell us something.
Oscar
Yes, young lady. I will tell you the hymn of marriage. May my songs
teach you happiness and may the Great Being on his throne of clouds
watch always over your rest!
Rutwen (aside)
What's he mean by that sinister tone?
Edgar
Come, brave man, begin. The rest of you, quiet—and sing in chorus.
Oscar (accompanying himself)
O young virgin of Staffa Beaming in your first passion Whose heart
palpitates already To the sweet names of lover and wife At the moment
of uniting your destiny To the lover of your thoughts Beware, young
fiancée Of love that brings death.
(Oscar watches Rutwen, whose face expresses the greatest fury. All
the other characters surround the old man with a sort of interest.)
Oscar
When the sun of the deserts No longer gilds the mountain peaks Then
the angels of Hell Come to caress their victim If their sweet voice
puts you to sleep Recoil—their hand is icy Beware young fiancée Of the
love that brings death.
(At the end of the couplet Rutwen can hardly contain his fury. He
stands up, agitated.)
Aubrey
What's the matter with you, my dear friend?
Rutwen
The lugubrious song of this man reminds me of very sad thoughts.
Aubrey
Send him away—
Petterson
Come, old man, leave. Your songs are displeasing to Milord.
Oscar (in a somber voice)
I believe it.
Lovette
Since it's that way—go—but when you return to the valley, come
see me—and you will receive my little offering.
Oscar
Alas! Tomorrow—perhaps my eyes will never see you again. (they
send him away with several peasants accompanying him)
Petterson
Children, before beginning the celebration, let's prepare the
banquet and we will drink to the lucky return of our victorious
visitor.
All
Come!
Petterson (low to Aubrey)
Milord, if you have the complaisance to second us, we could do
something worthy of you and him.
Aubrey
Very willingly. I want to take my share of the pleasure of
welcoming him.
(Everyone prepares to leave. Edgar gives his arm to Lovette; Rutwen
stops him.)
Rutwen
Beautiful Lovette, will you listen to me for a moment?
Lovette (looking at Edgar)
Goodness, Milord, I am no longer my own.
Rutwen
I hope that your spouse—
Edgar
What, come on—Madame, since the Count does you the honor—(in a
low voice) I am not jealous of this one.
Lovette
Here I am at your orders.
(Everyone moves away.)
Edgar
How amiable he is! How bountiful to speak with my wife. It's to
give her a gift, I am sure. (he leaves)
Rutwen
Approach, charming fiancée.
Lovette (recoiling)
I don't dare—
Rutwen (in the sweetest tone)
Be without fear. If you knew the intoxication I feel seeing you! An
irresistible love leads me to you. I shiver walking on the tracks of
your steps and near you, I breathe the air of joy.
Lovette (surprised and a bit annoyed)
Me, Milord! Is it possible?
Rutwen
Alas, my heart has never thrilled except for a single woman, a
celestial creature, and your features remind me of hers. This morning
my heart was worn out with regrets. The sweet flame of love was
extinguished in my soul—and tonight, it has just been reilluminated by
the fire of your glance—and tonight—I burn—
Lovette
But, Milord—the one you loved?
Rutwen
She's dead!
Lovette
She's dead?
Rutwen
You alone could make her relive for me.
Lovette
What are you saying?
Rutwen
Ah! Lovette—do you know the happiness of finding again the object
one adores?
Lovette
I never loved anyone except Edgar.
Rutwen
Except Edgar! He alone! How lucky he is! And how great my
misfortune. Ah! Why have the Gods hidden you from my eyes? Or rather
why have they let me see you?
Lovette
Well, Milord! Don't look at me any more. Never see me again. It
makes you suffer too much. (taking a step to leave)
Rutwen
Stop! Lovette, let your sight console me a moment for all that I
have lost. I want to delight my spirit in fancies of a happiness that
no longer exists. I want to believe myself for a moment to be your
spouse—believe yourself for a moment with Edgar. Don't refuse me this
sweet illusion. I will have nothing more to do than to die.
Lovette
What are you asking of me?
Rutwen
The most trivial of favors—a look—your hand, a smile.
Lovette
Ah! Cease, I beg you, cease—if Edgar—
Rutwen
Ah! I would give my entire existence for an hour of your love, and
if only one of my sighs could be heard in your heart you would love me.
Lovette (moved)
No, Milord, no—leave me. I am too upset.
Oscar (appearing on the mountain)
Beware young fiancée Of the love that brings death.
Lovette (utters a scream and escapes with terror)
Ah!
Rutwen (low)
It's hell that pursues me. (aloud) Don't go away—or tremble—
Lovette
Ah! Milord, for pity!
Rutwen
I won't hear of anything, you must love me!
Lovette (bursting into tears)
Ah! My God!
Rutwen
Your tears flow. It's for me.
Lovette
Don't think that. No, no—don't think that!
Rutwen
It's in vain. My life depends on you—till this evening. (music)
Think of it carefully, my life depends on you. And tomorrow, happiness
or death! They're coming. Silence!
(Rutwen puts a purse in Lovette's hand. She refuses to open it.
Everyone appears and she is forced to take it. They bring in tables,
trophies, garlands, etc.)
Petterson
Come, come, everything is prepared, Milord. When you order it, the
celebration will begin. Sir Aubrey won't delay rejoining you, but he
doesn't want his absence to delay our pleasures.
Lovette (raising her eyes to Rutwen)
I don't know what's going on in me. My soul is no longer the same.
Edgar
My good Lovette, it seems to me you are pouring tears.
Lovette
No, my friend.
Petterson (clapping his hands)
Come on, on the way, everybody.
(The ballet begins. Aubrey is seated at a table. Rutwen refuses to
be placed. Young girls bring refreshment. They are thanked without
taking them. At the overture, Lovette, oppressed, is being followed by
her companions and leaves. Rutwen, profiting by the moment when Edgar
pours a drink, disappears on the steps of Lovette. They keep dancing,
but soon Edgar, no longer seeing Lovette, stands up suddenly.)
Edgar
Father! Father! Where is Lovette?
Petterson
I don't know. That's the way lovers are.
Edgar (troubled)
And Milord! I no longer see him.
Aubrey
What's wrong? What's the matter with you?
(Edgar is already far away. Petterson and Aubrey get up. The dance
continues and one hears shouts in the wings.)
Lovette (enters, running, pale, hair in disorder)
Father! Save me! Save me!
Petterson
Great Gods! My daughter!
Aubrey
Oh Heaven! What's wrong with you? And Rutwen?
(Rutwen enters, pursued by Edgar.)
Edgar
Villain! (shoots him with a pistol)
Rutwen
Ah! I'm dying.
(Everyone utters a shout. Lovette falls in a faint. Tableau: the
actors freeze.)
Aubrey
A murder! (he draws his sword)
Petterson (restraining Edgar)
Edgar, what have you done?
Edgar
Father! Milord! Stop! Don't accuse me. Look at Lovette. The monster
wanted to dishonor me!
All
Is it possible?
Aubrey (to Edgar)
Coward! I am going to bathe in your blood.
Rutwen
Stop, Aubrey—
Aubrey
Gods! He's still alive. Oh, my friend.
(Everyone moves to go near.)
Aubrey (furious)
Get away! Get away! Do you want to snatch his last breath from him?
Get back.
(Petterson makes them leave, and remains alone, a little to the
rear.)
Aubrey
Oh, my friend! My brother—
Rutwen
No sadness, Aubrey; my last breath of life is ready to exhale.
Aubrey
No, no, I intend to save you.
Rutwen
I feel all help is useless. I ask of you only one service—the
last, you can't refuse me.
Aubrey
Ah, ask, take my life. It is unbearable without you.
Rutwen
My friend, I ask that for twelve hours only, you make the most
profound secret of what his happened to me.
Aubrey
For twelve hours—
Rutwen
Promise me that Malvina will know nothing of it and that you will
do nothing to avenge my death.
Aubrey
What! You are going to perish.
Rutwen
Don't question me. Swear to me the secret on my expiring heart.
Aubrey
I swear it. I swear it to you.
Rutwen (in a very weak voice)
Goodbye. We will see each other again one day. (the lighting has
become obscure, the moon, hidden by the clouds begins to shine on his
last words) Aubrey, let the moon shine on my eyes with its last light
so I can see it and address my last prayers to it.
(Rutwen's head falls back. Aubrey, helped by Petterson, places
Rutwen on the rock at the back. His kisses his hand again and Petterson
leads him away. The moon shines completely on the body of Rutwen and
lights the ice capped peaks of the mountains. The curtain falls.)
CURTAIN
The stage represents a large gothic vestibule. The door of the chapel is seen at the back. Preparations for the celebration can be seen.
Brigitte (approaching stealthily)
Scop! Scop!
Scop (asleep)
Ah! Who goes there? I'm here. What's wrong?
Brigitte
Our master is going to return, it's day. I wish that he may find
everything ready for the ceremony.
Scop
It won't be difficult. Everything's been done since yesterday
evening. It's strange, they tell us—Hurry up, decorate the chapel, get
the Chaplain to come—and then the intended and the brother-in-law go
to Marsden and don't come back.
Brigitte
The violent storm which took place last night doubtless prevented
them from returning. But the sea is calm. At daybreak boats can be seen
leaving the shore. They can't delay being here. I've just announced it
to my mistress who appeared to me to be very impatient.
Scop
Right—we'll finally see this wedding. I'll go inform everybody and
wake up all our sleepers.
(Exit Scop. Enter Oscar dressed as a monk.)
Brigitte
Now we are alone. Approach, venerable monk. No one can hear us.
They tell me you possess the power of conjuring spirits and reading the
future.
Oscar
They didn't deceive you.
Brigitte
You know why I wanted this meeting.
Oscar
To calm your uneasiness about the fate of a mistress that you love.
Brigitte
Astonishing man. I believe in your art. Tell, tell what you know.
Oscar
If you love your mistress, listen and profit. Before the needle has
reached the first hour of night, get Miss Aubrey away from this castle.
A great danger threatens her.
Brigitte
Just heaven! The fear that I experienced was, then, an inspiration
from heaven?
Oscar
Innocence and beauty no longer have refuge here. This country is
inhabited by powerful creatures. The earth of Staffa is fecund in
prodigies.
Brigitte
I tremble—And Sir Aubrey scorns my advice!
Oscar
The moment approaches when he will receive terrible punishment for
his incredulity.
Brigitte
Great God! Will he be in danger of perishing?
Oscar
No, you will see him soon. But you'll have trouble recognizing him.
He'll be agitated like a madman, overwhelmed by the weight of a
terrible uncertainty, his speech will be tied and his words seem
unintelligible. At these stages you will recognize the truth of my
advice. Woman, I repeat to you: get Miss Aubrey away from here.
Brigitte
But what to do, today?
Oscar
All danger will cease as soon as the castle clock strikes one.
Brigitte
One o'clock and it's only six. They're coming. Go away so they
don't surprise us together. I will follow your advice. But in the name
of heaven, don't leave the castle. I need you to explain these
terrifying things to me. We will see each other again.
Oscar
I will stay. (he exits)
Brigitte (alone)
He makes me tremble with his predictions. The removal of Sir Aubrey
and Milord who left us alone in this castle—there, if I am not
mistaken, is the cause of the danger.
Malvina (entering)
Brigitte, I was looking for you. I need you to make you share in my
joy.
Brigitte
My darling mistress, this is not the moment to be gay. The absence
of Sir Aubrey—
Malvina
Don't be uneasy any longer. Rutwen just told me that my brother is
going to arrive.
Brigitte
My Lord is here?
Malvina
Can you imagine? Opening the window to my room which gives on the
flower beds—he was the first person I noticed. He was gathering this
enormous bouquet. He ran to present it to me and he's coming to rejoin
me here for the ceremony which he is burning to complete. We have to
leave for London right away.
Brigitte
This very morning? (aside) What good luck!
Malvina
Yes, he explained to me the reason for this prompt departure. He's
been warned the King intends to surprise him and is awaiting him to
make him marry a lady of the court that he doesn't love. He has no
other way of avoiding this order than to present me to the King with
the title of his wife.
Brigitte
And we are leaving this morning? (aside) Come, there's a reason to
get away which prevents me from finding another. (aloud) Let's hurry,
Miss. I'm indeed in a hurry to leave this castle. I think I'll die of
it.
Malvina
What are you saying? This place displeases you to that degree?
Brigitte
Ah! Great Gods! Listen, I'd really like to tell you. But no, if you
knew—it's impossible. But, I'm running to make the preparations for
departure. They're coming. Doubtless it's Milord. Hurry the ceremony.
I'll rejoin you in a moment, Miss.
(Brigitte exits, Aubrey enters.)
Malvina
Ah! It's you, brother, you came opportunely. Have you met Milord?
Aubrey
Milord—Alas!
Malvina
What a sad air you have. What has happened to you?
Aubrey
To me, nothing. (aside) How to break this terrible news to her?
Malvina
Everything is ready for our marriage. Milord has doubtless told you
the important reasons which force us to leave for London this very
morning. This speed at first frightened me, but if you will accompany
us—Ah! What a charming trip. You aren't listening to me—you're
sighing—what's wrong with you?
Aubrey
Ah, sister, let's no longer think of this marriage.
Malvina
What are you saying? After all the oaths taken. Didn't you yourself
forge these chains? Alas! That was yesterday. But today—what? Could
you have taken back your word without consulting me?
Aubrey
It's not I. It's Rutwen—yesterday evening—
Malvina
Impossible. Just now even, at my feet, he swore our eternal love,
and pressed me to hasten our union.
Aubrey
What? What's this, my sister? Your wits are wandering!
Malvina
What I tell you is so strange?
Aubrey (stupefied)
Rutwen you say, spoke to you just now?
Malvina
Why this astonishment? What's wrong with you? What are your new
plans? Speak! Speak! Speak!
Aubrey
One of the two of us is delirious. I who saw him perish, the
unfortunate man.
Malvina (with a smile)
Perish! Ah!
Aubrey
Do the tombs reject their prey?
Malvina (uneasy)
But brother, the trouble you are in, these incomprehensible words,
in the name of heaven—instruct me in everything.
Aubrey
You wish to know everything: well, summon up all your courage; if
your heart felt love—prepare yourself for the most horrifying news.
Malvina
You overwhelm me! Indeed, he delays appearing. My anxiety grows
with each moment.
Aubrey
Since I have to resolve to break your heart. Know that all my plans
have been blasted. A terrible event, unexpected, has deprived us—me of
a friend, you of a spouse—the unfortunate Rutwen.
Rutwen (advancing, seizing the arm of Aubrey and speaking in
a terrible voice)
Think of your oath!
Aubrey (recoiling, stunned)
Great Gods! It's a ghost!
Malvina (terrified)
My dear Aubrey, is it possible?
Rutwen
Tremble to say a word.
Aubrey
Flee! Get away! You are only a lying spectre. Go, I don't wish to
see you. My friend is dead.
Rutwen
Aubrey, come to yourself, I beg you, in the name of friendship.
Aubrey
You are trying to imitate his voice. It's in vain.
Malvina
Oh Heaven. Is it possible?
Aubrey
Rutwen was pierced by a mortal blow before my eyes. You are not
Rutwen. Where is your wound? Is it still bloody? Show it.
Malvina
His reason is lost.
Rutwen
My friend, look at me, touch my brow. I am Rutwen.
Aubrey
Get away, phantom—sister, hide yourself from the pursuit of this
monster. He will tell you he is your spouse. Refuse your oath. This
marriage is a curse.
Rutwen
His condition is disturbing. Hey there! Scop, Brigitte.
Aubrey
My sister, believe me. The spouse I destined for you is lost to
you. Last night Edgar surprised him—it's his fiancée—
Rutwen (aside to Aubrey, in a terrible voice)
Aubrey! Remember your oath.
(The Servants enter. Rutwen gives them a sign to take Aubrey away.
They seize him.)
Aubrey
What do you want with me? Why do you seize me, wretches?
Malvina
Stop! What are you doing?
Rutwen
His condition requires help.
(Rutwen explains to them that Aubrey is mad.)
Aubrey
Sister, swear to me to preserve your liberty until the moment that
bronze has struck one o'clock.
Rutwen (shivering, aside)
One o'clock. (aloud) My friends, lead him to his apartment. Lavish
on him all the help of the art.
Aubrey
Sister—until one o'clock.
Malvina
Ah! My God! My God! My poor brother!
(Pantomime during which the Servants lead Aubrey off.)
Rutwen
That dear Aubrey. What a shame!
Malvina
His condition alarms me! What do you want to say?
Rutwen
How often I've pitied him for being subject to disorders of the
mind.
Malvina
Truly? I've never noticed.
Rutwen
I witnessed them several times in the course of our voyages, and
they happened to him almost always at the end of spirited opposition.
His soul, you know, is open to strong impressions, and his imagination
is sparked by deep reflections and exalted thoughts, which sometimes
trouble his reason.
Malvina
You think so?
Rutwen
I attest to it.
Malvina
To believe it, I need for you to affirm it to me, for what he said
was so astonishing—and so cruel—that my heart is still shivering.
This marriage is a curse!
Rutwen
Malvina, you must banish—
Malvina
Pardon, but Aubrey has served as my father and I have for him all
the friendship that nature and gratitude can inspire.
Rutwen
I am far from reproaching you, but still, Malvina, if you love me—
Malvina
Ah! If you suspect that, how unhappy I will be.
Rutwen
It's the only misfortune that I fear in this world. On your love
depends my repose, my happiness, all my destiny. On your love depends
my life. Swear to me then to forget vain terrors and to be forever
mine—mine alone!
Malvina
I swear by the God who can read my soul.
Rutwen
O joy! Then it's done—you are mine—your hand, your heart, all
your being belongs to me. Receive the sacred ring which engages you to
me forever.
Malvina
Ah! Give it to me. (she offers him her hand)
Rutwen (with a ferocious smile)
You are shivering. What's the matter with you?
Malvina
I am agitated by an unfamiliar feeling. It has—I don't know what—
something about it that's so sad. My eyes are filling with bitter
tears. My heart is breaking and I still hear him. “Sister, at one
o'clock you will learn this fatal secret.”
Rutwen (shivering)
Great Gods! If the hour should strike! (aloud) Malvina, think no
more of these vain dreams of a wandering imagination. Let's hasten to
consecrate the bonds which unite us. All must be prepared for the
ceremony. Remember what you have promised me, and don't wander off—we
are going to march to the altar.
(Rutwen leaves excitedly and meets Brigitte who he orders by gesture
to watch over Malvina. Brigitte, terrified by Rutwen's appearance turns
away.)
Malvina
How I am moved! The approach of this ceremony causes me a troubling
astonishment. I can hardly breathe. This moment is going to decide my
future. Oh! But I will be happy. I have the sweetest presentiment of
it.
Brigitte (aside)
Poor Miss, how distracted she is. Ah, when one is marrying for the
first time, it's natural.
Malvina
Oh, yes, I will be happy.
Brigitte (aside)
Well, I don't know, that man has taken on for some time an
extraordinary appearance. As for me, I wouldn't marry him.
(Malvina is pensive for a while. Brigitte coughs to be heard.)
Malvina
Ah, it's you, my maid!
Brigitte
I didn't dare speak to you—tell me, Miss, what's going on in this
castle. What's happened to your brother?
Malvina
Alas, I cannot tell you.
Brigitte
He's agitated, he runs, he stops, he talks of you. It's like an
access of madness. Here, Miss, would you like to know what I think? (in
a low voice) I think he's possessed by an evil spirit.
Malvina
Don't think that!
Brigitte
Hmm! Hmm! As for you, you don't believe it. Still, I don't wish it
on him, but I much fear it. That poor Sir Aubrey. He affects me. They
are taking all the care in the world to protect him. He wants to leave.
He asked more than ten times what time it was. I went to see—and it's
like a doom. The castle clock has stopped since this morning.
Malvina
The clock has stopped and he's waiting for one o'clock to disclose
to me his secret. Well, what did you do?
Brigitte
When I told him, he went into a rage. I ran to warn the concierge.
Malvina
What a confusion of strange events.
Brigitte
Ah! I am all atremble. I am really afraid that this day will finish
badly—
Malvina
Brigitte! The day of my marriage—
Brigitte
Ah, pardon, my good mistress. I afflict you. Pardon, I no longer
know what I'm saying. Don't pay attention to me.
(Solemn music announcing the ceremony. The back of the stage opens.
It's a great portiere and allows the chapel to be seen lit up. Servants
place cushions and some vessels at her knees. It creates a solemn
tableau.)
Rutwen
Come, Madame. Come, bring my happiness to completion.
Malvina
I follow you, Lord.
Brigitte
My God, what's going to happen?
Rutwen (with the most noticeable impatience)
Well! Why tarry longer? (turning) Where then is the chaplain? Run,
find him. Let him be brought to me instantly.
A Servant
Here he is, Milord.
(He appears dressed in his awesome costume.)
Rutwen
Come, Malvina. Heaven awaits your oath. (taking her hand)
(Great uproar is heard outside and Aubrey shouting “Sister! Sister!”
Everyone stops. Aubrey runs in, followed by Servants who seize him.)
Rutwen
Good Heavens! It's Aubrey.
Aubrey
Release me! Release me! My sister—where is she? I want to see her.
Give me back my sister. Are you going to let her sacrifice herself?
Malvina
My brother, don't you recognize your Malvina any more?
Aubrey
I heard her voice. (she extends her arms to him) Ah! It's you? Are
you still my sister? Hear me, I've recovered my reason.
Rutwen
The madman! Malvina, don't listen to him, come—
Malvina
Pity!
Aubrey
Stop! Don't follow him. He's leading you to the tomb. This priest
is a minister of death. These torches are funeral torches.
Rutwen
Malvina, follow me.
Aubrey (throwing himself at his feet)
Barbarian! I forbid her. You have no rights over her—and as for
me, I am her brother!
All (to Rutwen)
Milord! Milord!
Rutwen
I am not listening to any of this. This woman is mine. This lunatic
wants to ravish her from me.
Malvina
No, no——
Rutwen
Can't you see he's in a delirium?
Aubrey (forcefully)
You are mistaken. In an instant the time will release me from my
oath and I can tell all. (retaining Malvina)
Rutwen (seizing him by the hair)
Wretch! If you utter a word—(with his other hand he tries to drag
Malvina who resists, then he draws his dagger)
Aubrey
You'll have to bathe it in my blood.
Rutwen
Both of you will perish!
(Rutwen goes to stab Aubrey when one o'clock strikes. Malvina faints
into the arms of Brigitte. Thunder rolls.)
Rutwen
Nothingness! Nothingness!
(Rutwen's raised arm falls. The lightning flashes. The rear of the
stage opens revealing the shades of the Vampire victims. They are young
women covered by veils. They pursue him, pointing to their breasts from
which blood still flows from the wounds. At that moment, the angel of
love crosses the stage in a luminous chariot.)
All (seized by fright)
Oh Heaven!
(Thunder rolls more strongly and lightning strikes the Vampire who
is consumed.)
CURTAIN