The same. Comedians, among them Marion and Didier; afterward Saverny, afterward Marquis de Nangis
SCARAMOUCHE (to Laffemas).
What do you want with us?
LAFFEMAS.
Without preamble:
My lord the Cardinal commissioned me
To find good actors, if there may be such
Within the provinces, to act the plays
Which he constructs in hours of leisure when
Allowed by State affairs. In spite of care
And earnest thought, his theater declines,
And is no credit to a cardinal-duke.
[All the actors press eagerly forward. Saverny enters, and watches the scene with curiosity.
GRACIEUX (aside, counting his money).
Twelve only! He said twenty. The old scamp!
He's robbed me!
LAFFEMAS.
Let each one repeat some scene,
That I may know your talents and may choose.
[Aside.] If he gets out of that, this Didier's sharp.
[Aloud.] Are you all here?