CYRANO DE BERGERAC
73
The ovens in the darkness under the stairs give forth a red glow. The copper pans shine. The spits are turning. Heaps of food formed into pyramids. Hams suspended. It is the busy hour of the morning. Bustle and hurry of scullions, fat cooks, and diminutive apprentices, their caps profusely decorated with cock's feathers and wings of guinea-fowl.
On metal and wicker plates they are bringing in piles of cakes and tarts.
Tables laden with rolls and dishes of food. Other tables surrounded with chairs are ready for the consumers.
A small table in a corner covered with papers, at which Ragueneau is seated writing on the rising of the curtain.
SCENE I
Ragueneau, Pastry-cooks, then Lise. Ragueneau is writing, with an inspired air, at a small table, and counting on his fingers.
First Pastry-cook
[bringing in an elaborate fancy dish].
Fruits in nougat!
Second Pastry-cook
[bringing another dish].
Custard!
Third Pastry-cook
[bringing a roast, decorated with feathers].
Peacock!
