The Blackbird
The thing, Chantecler, quite the thing! I knew a city sparrow once, and it’s the way they talk in fashionable circles.
Chantecler
I was well acquainted with a little red-breast, who lived beneath a city poet’s eaves; he did not talk like you.
The Blackbird
I belong to my time. Every chap that’s a bit of a swell nowadays must be a bit of a tough. It’s smart, you know.
Patou
I froth at the mouth! Smart,—there’s the Peacock’s password!
Chantecler
Oh, the Peacock, by the way, what is he doing these days?
The Blackbird
Ogling with his tail-feathers!
Patou
Baneful his example has been to many an humble heart.
Chantecler
What signs do you see of his influence?
Patou
A thousand nothings.
The Old Hen
[Appearing.] Bubbles floating down the stream tell of laundresses up stream! [The lid drops.]