(De Guiche speaks in a low voice with Carbon at the back. Orders are given. Preparations go forward. Cyrano goes up to Christian, who stands with crossed arms.)

CYRANO (putting his hand on Christian’s shoulder):
Christian!

CHRISTIAN (shaking his head):
Roxane!

CYRANO:
Alas!

CHRISTIAN:
At least, I’d send
My heart’s farewell to her in a fair letter!. . .

CYRANO:
I had suspicion it would be to-day,
(He draws a letter out of his doublet):
And had already writ. . .

CHRISTIAN:
Show!

CYRANO:
Will you. . .?

CHRISTIAN (taking the letter):
Ay!
(He opens and reads it):
Hold!

CYRANO:
What?