Chantecler
They believe that now I have ceased to believe it!
Patou
[Stopping short, amazed.] What do you mean?
The Pheasant-hen
[Bitterly pressing close to Chantecler.] You see that a heart pressing against your own is better than a sky which does not in the very least need you.
Chantecler
Yes!
The Pheasant-hen
That darkness after all may be as sweet as light if there are two close-clasped in the shade.
Chantecler
[Wildly.] Yes! Yes! [But suddenly leaving her side he raises his head and in a ringing voice.] Cock-a-doodle-doo!
The Pheasant-hen
[Taken aback.] Why are you crowing?
Chantecler
As a warning to myself,—for thrice have I denied the thing I love!
The Pheasant-hen
And what is that?
Chantecler
My life’s work! [To Patou.] Up and about! Come, let us go!