Act 3 — SCENE III.
Charles Renauld translation
ROXANE, THE DUENNA, CYRANO.
ROXANE (pointing to door of house opposite hers).
We are going to Clomire's. Alcandre is to speak, so is Lysimon.
DUENNA.
Yes, but my little finger says that we shall be late.
CYRANO.
Make haste lest you miss part of their monkey talk.
DUENNA (looking at knocker).
That's right, they have gagged this noisy little wretch. It might have interrupted the finest speeches.
(She knocks very gently. Door opens.)
ROXANE (about to pass in. To Cyrano).
Were Christian to come, as is likely, request him to wait for me, please.
CYRANO.
I shall.
(As she is passing in the door, she turns, on hearing Cyrano speak.)
And what question do you intend, as is your wont, to propound to him to-day?
ROXANE.
The question of....
CYRANO (eagerly).
Of?....
ROXANE.
But you'll remain silent!
CYRANO.
As a prison wall.
ROXANE.
No question at all!.... I shall simply say to him: Proceed—without a rein!—Extemporise. Speak of love. Be grand!
CYRANO (smiling).
Excellent idea!
ROXANE.
Hush!
CYRANO.
Hush!
(Roxane enters, closing the door.)
CYRANO (bowing to the door).
Very many thanks!
(The door opens and Roxane passes out her head.)
ROXANE.
He might try to prepare!....
CYRANO.
That would never do!....
TOGETHER.
Hush!
(Door closes.)
CYRANO (calling).
Christian!