All the Cocks
[Gathered about him, fighting.] No! Cuckodee—No, Cackadaa—No, Coocooroo—
The Cock
[Who mixes all up.] The free Cockadoodle! The free crow is obligatory!
Chantecler
Pray, who is that, speaking with such authority?
First Chicken
It is a wonderful Cock who has never sung at all.
Chantecler
[In humble despair.] And I am only a Cock who sings!
Everybody
[Drawing away from him in disgust.] I wouldn’t mention it if I were you!
Chantecler
I give my song as the rose-tree gives its Rose!
The Peacock
[Sarcastically.] Ah, I was waiting for the Rose! [Pitying laughter.]
Chantecler
[Low, nervously, to the Blackbird.] Is my prospective slayer going to keep me waiting much longer?
Everyone
[Disgusted.] The Rose? Oh!