No More Learning

DIDIER: The Marquis of Saverny! So the fop
Called himself. Oh, the easy, impudent air
With which he spoke to Marie! And I saved
The creature's life. If I meet him again----

GASSE: Saverny!

DIDIER: Here's my man.

GASSE: Have you observed
The edict against duelling, on pain
Of hanging?

SAVERNY: Hanging? Hang a gentleman?
You jest! That is a punishment for serfs.

BRICHANTEAU: Well, read the edict underneath the lamp.

SAVERNY (_annoyed at_ DIDIER _for staring at him_):
Go, read it for me, pale face!

DIDIER: I?

SAVERNY: Yes, you.
DIDIER (_rising_): It is an ordinance that punishes
By gibbeting all squabbling noblemen.
Having done all you wanted, may I claim
A slight reward? Will you now fight with me?

SAVERNY: Certainly. Where?

DIDIER: Here. Who will lend a sword?

L'ANGELY: For this wild folly, take a fool's sword, friend,
And in exchange, bequeath to me, for luck,
The bit of rope that hangs you.

DIDIER (_taking his sword_): Now, marquis!

SAVERNY: Sir, at your service.

DIDIER: Guard!

[_As their swords clash,_ MARION DE LORME _appears. _

MARION (_seeing_ DIDIER _fighting_): Stop! Help! Help! Help!