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CYRANO DE BERGERAC

De Guiche.

—‘On the King's service!’The King's service? How! [All descend and draw up in line.]

Carbon.

Uncover, all!

De Guiche.

Uncover, all!The King's! Draw up in line!
Let him describe his curve as it bents!

[The carriage enters at full speed covered with dint and mud. The curtains are drawn close. Two lackeys behind. It is putted up suddenly.]

Carbon.

Beat a salute!

[A roll of drums. The Cadets uncover.]

De Guiche.

Beat a salute!Lower the carriage-steps!

[Two Cadets rush forward. The door opens.]

Roxane

[jumping down from the carriage].

Beat a salute! Lower the carriage-steps!Good-day!

[All are bowing to the ground, but at the sound of a woman's voice every head is instantly raised.]

SCENE V

The Same. Roxane.

De Guiche.

On the King's service! You?