Chantecler
But, heavens and earth, am I to leave the valley in total darkness?
The Pheasant-hen
[Pouting.] What harm will it do to the valley?
Chantecler
Whatever lies too long in darkness and sleep becomes used to falsehood and consents to death.
The Pheasant-hen
Leave singing for one day—[In a tone of evil insinuation.] It will free my mind of certain suspicions troubling it.
Chantecler
[With a start.] I can see what you are trying to do!
The Pheasant-hen
And I can see what you are afraid of!
Chantecler
[Earnestly.] I will never give up singing.
The Pheasant-hen
And what if you were mistaken? What if the truth were that Dawn comes without help from you?
Chantecler
[With fierce resolution.] I shall not know it.
The Pheasant-hen
[In a sudden burst of tears.] Could you not forget the time, for once, if you saw me weeping?