Straforel monologue (Act 1) — The Romancers: A Comedy in Three Acts

I see one star already. The day is dying. [He places his men about the stage.] Stay there--you there--and you there. The hour is near. You will see, as the clock strikes eight, a figure in white enter on this side. Then I whistle--[He looks at the sky again.] The moon? Splendid! Every effect is perfect to-night! [Examining the costumes of his band] The capes and mantles are excellent. Look a little more dangerous, over there! Now, ready? [A sedan-chair is brought in.] The chair over there in the shade. [Seeing the negroes who carry the chair] The negroes are good! [Speaking at a distance] Torches, there, you understand you are not to come until you receive the signal? [The faint reflection of the torches is seen at the back of the stage, through the underbrush. Enter the musicians.] Musicians? There-- at the back. Now, a little distinction and life! Vary your poses from time to time. Stand straight, mandolin! Sit down, alto! There. [Severely to a swordsman] You, first mask, don't look so harmless--I want a villainous slouch! Good! Now, instruments, play softly--tune up! Good--tra la la! [He puts on his mask.]