the Swiss Guards, left. De Flue is standing, while Vintimille rises, using his cane to support himself.] Butt-ends of your muskets in the air! Messieurs, I think I ought to inform you that in spite of the precautions I have taken, there will be some surprises when the enemy makes its entrance. You know they are not a disciplined army. But if they show any lack of military manners, that is no excuse for our behaving likewise. And you, Swiss Guards, in the name of the King, I thank you for your obedience. You deserve more credit than the others. [He turns his back on the Pensioners and smiles a little.] As to you, we understand each other. [The Pensioners murmur approval.]
De Flue [phlegmaticatty]. War is war! [A Pensioner whistles: "Où peut-on être mieux qu'au sein de sa famille?"]
Vintimille [turning toward him, and, with a disdainful gesture]. You need not trouble to show your glee! It's indecent, my friend.
The Pensioner. Monseigneur, I couldn't help it.
Vintimille. Why, you are positively proud to be beaten!
The Pensioner [warmly]. We are not beaten! They would never have taken the Bastille unless we had wished them to. [His comrades murmur approval.]
Vintimille. Do you mean to say that it is we who have taken the Bastile?
Pensioner. There is some truth in it.
Vintimille. Well—! To your post! [After a
