Deirdre of the Sorrows

by J. M. Synge

NAISI.
— still cheerfully. — Open the door and we’ll go forward to the little cabin between the ash-tree and the rocks. Lift the bolt and pull it.

[Deirdre comes in on left royally dressed and very beautiful. She stands for a moment, and then as the door opens she calls softly.

DEIRDRE.
Naisi! Do not leave me, Naisi. I am Deirdre of the Sorrows.

NAISI.
— transfixed with amazement. — And it is you who go around in the woods making the thrushes bear a grudge against the heavens for the sweetness of your voice singing.

DEIRDRE.
It is with me you’ve spoken, surely. (To Lavarcham and Old Woman.) Take Ainnle and Ardan, these two princes, into the little hut where we eat, and serve them with what is best and sweetest. I have many things for Naisi only.

LAVARCHAM.
— overawed by her tone. — I will do it, and I ask their pardon. I have fooled them here.

DEIRDRE.
— to Ainnle and Ardan. — Do not take it badly that I am asking you to walk into our hut for a little. You will have a supper that is cooked by the cook of Conchubor, and Lavarcham will tell you stories of Maeve and Nessa and Rogh.

AINNLE.
We’ll ask Lavarcham to tell us stories of yourself, and with that we’ll be well pleased to be doing your wish.

[They all go out except Deirdre and Naisi.

DEIRDRE.
— sitting in the high chair in the centre. — Come to this stool, Naisi (pointing to the stool). If it’s low itself the High King would sooner be on it this night than on the throne of Emain Macha.