Act 4 — SCENE II
Reading edition
The area before Notre Dame; the front of the church. The sound of bells is heard
QUASIMODO.
My God! I love, Except myself, All that's here— The air which passes, And which chases Away care; And the swallow Who is faithful To the old roof; The chapels high O'ershadowed by The Holy Cross; Every rose That grows; Every sight Of delight! Sad creature, I— Uncouth, ill-made! None envies me! This is life As it is! Darkest night, Bluest sky, What matters it? Every door Leads to God. Ignoble scabbard, Noble blade; Fair my soul God has made. Ring, bells small and great— Ring on, ring on! Mix well your voices, Gruff and sweet! In the turrets, In the tower, Sing your song! How they ring! With all their might, Let them hum Day and night! Our festival shall be Magnificent, I swear! Assail it fiercer yet, The palpitating air! The stupid peasants run, And o'er the bridges tear! Let them ring, Let them hum, Day and night! Every feast Is increased By their might!
[He turns toward the front of the church.
I saw black hangings in the chapel.
Are they dragging some misery here?
God! a presentiment! I'll not believe it!
[Enter Claude Frollo and Clopin without perceiving Quasimodo.
It is my master! I'll observe him. He is gloomy too!
[He hides himself in an obscure angle of the porch.
Oh, my mistress! Oh, Notre Dame!
Take my life! save my soul!