[Sudden silence. Chantecler has appeared at the entrance, just behind the Cock last announced.]
Chantecler
[To the Magpie.] Pray simply say, “The Cock!”
Scene Fourth
The Same, Chantecler, later The Pigeons, and The Swan.
The Magpie
[After looking Chantecler up and down, disdainfully.] The Cock!
Chantecler
[From the threshold, to the Guinea-hen.] Your pardon Madam,—my humble duty!—for venturing to present myself in this plumage—
The Guinea-hen
Come in, I pray!
Chantecler
I hardly know whether I should. I have a limited number of toes—
The Guinea-hen
[Indulgently.] Oh, never mind!
Chantecler
I cannot claim to be a Carpathian, and—I hardly know how to conceal it from you—I have feet!