The Pheasant-hen, Patou, later the Woodpecker, Rabbits, and, all the Voices of the awakening forest.
Patou
[To the Pheasant-hen.] Mourn!
The Spider
[In the centre of her-web which now sifts the gold dust of a sunbeam.] Spider at morn,
Cometh to warn!
The Pheasant-hen
[Furiously, tearing down the cobweb with a brush of her wing.] Be still, hateful Spider!—Oh, may he perish for having disdained me!
The Woodpecker
[Who from his window has been watching Chantecler’s departure, suddenly, frightened.] The poacher has seen him!
The Owls
[In the trees.] The Cock is in danger!
The Woodpecker
[Leaning out to see better.] He breaks his gun in two!
Patou
[Alarmed.] To load it! Is that murderous fool in sheepskin gaiters going to fire upon a rooster?
The Pheasant-hen
[Spreading her wings to rise.] Not if he sees a pheasant!
Patou
[Springing before her.] What are you doing?