How we cite our quotes: (Act.Line)
Quote #16
CYRANO (More and more pale, struggling against pain)
Saturday, the nineteenth: The King fell ill,
After eight helpings of grape marmalade.
His malady was brought before the court,
Found guilty of high treason; whereupon
His Majesty revived. The royal pulse
Is now normal. Sunday, the twentieth:
The Queen gave a grand ball, at which they burned
Seven hundred and sixty-three wax candles. Note:
They say our troops have been victorious
In Austria. Later: Three sorcerers
Have been hung. Special post: The little dog
Of Madame d’Athis was obliged to take
Four pills before—
ROXANE
Monsieur de Bergerac,
Will be kindly be quiet!
CYRANO
Monday… nothing.
Lygdamire has a new lover.
ROXANE
Oh!
CYRANO (His face more and more altered)
Tuesday, The Twenty-second: All the court has gone
To Fountainbleau. Wednesday: The Comte de Fiesque
Spoke to Madame de Montglat; she said No.
Thursday: Mancini was the Queen of France
Or—very nearly! Friday: La Montglat
Said Yes. Saturday, twenty-sixth… (V.195-215)
All the names mentioned here are true historical figures and Rostand captures the spirit and reputation of each one in Cyrano’s brief mentions of them to Roxane. Here, history serves as mere background to the characters’ plights and adds a touch of humor and frivolity to the action of the play.