No More Learning

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! When I see your sweet, bright face
My grief and trouble vanish. Kiss me, Blanche;
I am in need of love. Have you been out?

BLANCHE: Only to church. It is so dull in town
That, were it not for you, dear, I should like
To go back to Chinon.

TRIBOULET: It would be best;
put now I could not live in solitude.
My darling, I have no one in the world
But you to love me!

[_Hiding his face in his hands, he weeps. _

BLANCHE: Father, trust in me.
Tell me your name and calling. Every night
You come by stealth to see me; every day
You disappear. Oh, how it troubles me
To see you weep!

TRIBOULET: You would be troubled more
If you could see me laugh!