(The violins join the formation. Candles are taken from the footlights and distributed; and thus a torch-light procession is prepared.)
CYRANO.
Bravo! Officers, gentlemen and women in fancy dress! Now, ten steps ahead .... (he places himself as he speaks) I, alone, beneath the plume that glory itself stuck into this hat .... proud as a Scipion thrice Nasica!.... Understood?.... All assistance to me is forbidden! Ready?.... Open the door!
(Janitor opens the door, through which can be seen a bit of old Paris, picturesque in the moonlight.)
Ah! Paris in the dimness of the night,
With moonlight trickling down the bluish roofs.
For coming deed how exquisite the frame!
'Neath mist as light as gauze, behold! the Seine,
As if it were a magic mirror there,
Is trembling .... and you'll see what you shall see!
ALL.
To the Porte de Nesle!
CYRANO (on the threshold).
To the Porte de Nesle!
(Turning, before going out, to the soubrette).