No More Learning

TRIBOULET (_startled_): What! Who are you?

SALTABADIL: Excuse me. I have watched you for a week
Come to this house at evening. Every time
You seem afraid some foe is following you.

TRIBOULET (_still more startled_): What do you want?
Who are you? Go away!

SALTABADIL: I want to help you. Do you need a sword?
I am an honest man, and at a price
I'll rid you of your enemy.

TRIBOULET (_relieved by the bravo's air_): What price?

SALTABADIL: According to the job. If he is armed
'Tis best to get my sister, Maguelonne,
To help me. She will lure him to our house--

TRIBOULET: I understand.
SALTABADIL (_confidentially_): No noise, you see; no risk.
Give me your custom, sir, and you will find
I do the work better than any man
In Paris.

TRIBOULET: But at present I've no need--

SALTABADIL: Well, think about it. I am Saltabadil.
I wait for clients every day at noon
By the Hotel du Maine.

TRIBOULET: Good-night to you.

SALTABADIL: Believe me, I am honest. Times are bad;
I have four children, and at least my trade
Is better than mere beggary.

TRIBOULET: Of course.
One must bring up one's children.

SALTABADIL: Thanks. Good-night.

[_He departs. _ TRIBOULET _then opens the door leading
into a courtyard, and knocks at an inner entrance.
This is opened by a charming young girl, who
throws herself into the jester's arms. _

TRIBOULET: My daughter!