It's you who played the comedy.

LAFFEMAS.

Not well.
But with the Cardinal I'll write a play.
It is a tragedy: you have a part.

[Marion screams with horror. Didier turns from her with contempt.

MARION.

Ah, God!

[At this moment Marquis de Nangis passes across the back of the stage, in the same attitude, with his escort of Halberdiers. Marion's cry arrests him; pale and silent he turns to the characters.

LAFFEMAS (to Marquis de Nangis).

Marquis, I claim your aid. Good news!
Lend me your escort. The murderer escaped
Our vigilance, but we've recaptured him.

MARION (throwing herself at Laffemas's feet).