Chantecler
[Whom the Toads have gradually surrounded.] Gentlemen and honored Batrachians, my voice, it is true, gives forth natural notes—
The Big Toad
Yes, notes which lend us wings—
Chantecler
[Modestly.] Oh!
All
[Waggling their bodies as if about to fly.] Wings!
The Big Toad
Their secret being that they sing Life!
Chantecler
That is true.
Second Toad
Yes, my dear fellow, Life!
Chantecler
[With careless complacency.] My crest for that reason is flesh and blood!
All the Toads
[Clapping their little hands.] Good, very good!
The Big Toad
That formula is a programme.