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The Scarlet Pimpernel Musical Script
-ACT I-
No. 1 Prologue (orchestra)
SCENE ONE
Onstage Comedie Francaise
(MARGUERITE, alone in a follow spot sings)
No. 2 "Storybook" (Marguerite & Ensemble)
MARGUERITE
Listen to me I have beautiful dreams I can spin you,
Dreams to linger within you.
Close your eyes and we'll ride my carousel.
I'll tell you stories of lovers whose love used to fill me,
And the lovers who will be,
For you see, love is one thing I do well.
Come let's believe love can be just as sweet as it seems.
Let's live on dreams . . .
(A stage set appears as MARGUERITE is joined by a chorus of Cupids.)
In my dreams, such beautiful lovers have found me.
Storybook lovers surround me.
Nothing is real, but I'm flying,
Sighing 'where, where, where is my storybook ending?
Why does my golden pretending
Leave me with nothing to hold . . . but my dreams?'
Oh, is it only in love that we find our ideal love?
Are there lovers with real love?
If you know how to feel love, show me how.
Ah, but my prince, if you can't be as sweet as you seem,
I'd rather dream!
Come and wake me! Come be the love I can hold now.
Storybook love leaves me cold now.
Show me the way to stop dreaming!
There is only one perfect storybook ending.
That is the end of pretending.
That is the moment I say: 'love me now!'
(MARGUERITE addresses the audience.)
MARGUERITE
Mes amis - Thank you for sharing with me my last performance at The Comedie Francaise. And thank you to Citizen Chauvelin, who has so graciously allowed our theatre to remain open this spring. But now, I share with you my own storybook ending. Six weeks ago I met a tall and handsome "prince", and tonight he sweeps me away to England to be married. Sir Percival Blakeney! He is handsome, yes? Oh, I shall miss you all very much, but in my heart, how could I ever leave Paris?
MARGUERITEEt sur mon manege, l'amour toujours est chantant. De mes reves, c'est le commencement, et j'espere une fin heureuse. MARGUERITE AND FRENCH GIRLS Mais la fin de l'histoire ne vient pas tres doucement, pour l'histoire il faut faire semblant. Certes je n'embrasse que mes reves, seuls mes reves. And on my carousel, love is always singing.Of my dreams, its the beginningand I hope for a happy end. But the end of the story doesn't come sweetly,for the story, one must make believe.Surely I hold nothing but my dreams, only my dreams.
No. 2a "Chauvelin's Revenge" (orchestra)
(CHAUVELIN enters with his aides, MERCIER and COUPEAU. More soldiers enter as CHAUVELIN addresses the audience.)
CHAUVELIN
Citizens! By order of The Revolutionary Tribunal, this theatre is now declared closed due to exhibition of sentiments recalling The Old regime and non-compliance with Republican ideals, closure effective as of this moment.
(The dancers exit slowly in confusion. MARGUERITE crosses to CHAUVELIN.)
SCENE TWO - The Scarlet Pimpernel Musical Script -
Backstage Comedie Francaise
MARGUERITE
How could you do this?
CHAUVELIN
Order of Citizen Robespierre.
MARGUERITE
Before the end of a performance! And on my last night.
CHAUVELIN
Ah, well, you see, I did not know this was to be your last night, Marguerite. You failed to inform me of your impending:nuptials.
MARGUERITE
You knew perfectly well I planned to marry.
CHAUVELIN
But this soon, my dear? And, quite frankly, I never thought you'd be one to turn your back on your homeland. May I offer my congratulations and inquire if you indeed have approved papers to leave France?
MARGUERITE
Stop it, Chauvelin.
(MARIE enters, followed by ARMAND.)
CHAUVELIN
I believe you and I also have a piece of : unfinished business?
MARGUERITE
Marie - :could you tell my brother I will be with him shortly?
CHAUVELIN
Wasn't there something you were going to deliver me, lest I throw a wrench into this sudden romance of yours?
MARGUERITE
Wait here.
(MARGUERITE exits.)
MARIE
Armand - keep an eye on your sister tonight.
(TUSSAUD enters.)
TUSSAUD
Marie - they've closed the theatre?
COUPEAU
Effective immediately. Please vacate the building.
MARIE
I will "vacate": when I am ready.
TUSSAUD
Marie:
MERCIER
Citizen. Your name and position.
MARIE
My name is Marie Grosholtz. I am an artist. I design costumes and scenery for this theatre, which should not be closed.
(PERCY enters, overhears the following.)
TUSSAUD
Marie, please. I'll take you home:
COUPEAU
By order of the Revolutionary Tribunal:
MARIE
I spit on the Revolutionary Tribunal!
MERCIER
Under arrest!
PERCY
Beg pardon? Uh - Monsieur Soldier:Citizen? Yes, I see you're about to arrest this young woman, as well you should. Most obstreperous creature. However, I feel it is my duty as a, uh, citizen...of the:world.. to urge you this way instead. Well, the flag burners! You didn't see them?! Five or six ruffians out there in the alley, burning and stomping upon the beautiful new Republican flag! You saw them, too, didn't you, Armand?
ARMAND
I did? I did. Yes, I did! 7 or 8 of them! Big huge men!
MERCIER
Citizen Chauvelin! Subversives in the alleyway!
(On a signal from CHAUVELIN, MERCIER, COUPEAU and the soldiers exit. ARMAND follows.)
PERCY
On with you then! Save that flag! Le jour de gloire and all that!
TUSSAUD
Kind, sir- I have the misfortune to love an outspoken woman in outlandish times.
PERCY
Then you and I have much in common. But I assure you, sir there's no fire. You must leave quickly - before they return.
TUSSAUD
We thank you for your help. Come, Marie.
(MARIE and TUSSAUD exit, followed by PERCY as MARGUERITE enters carrying a sealed note.)
MARGUERITE
Chauvelin - you promise me the Marquis and his family will only be deported? No harm will come to them?
CHAUVELIN
No.
(MARGUERITE hands the note to CHAUVELIN.)
MARGUERITE
I wish:never to see you again.
CHAUVELIN
Alas, I cannot return your sentiments, as I do:wish to see you again.
(ARMAND enters.)
ARMAND
Marguerite - Percy's hired us a lovely carriage and the bags are all packed.
(PERCY enters.)
PERCY
Now perhaps you should change costumes, m'dear? Well, you could travel like that, but it might distract the horses.
MARGUERITE
Oh, Percy, this- :is Citizen Chauvelin. My fiance, Percival Blakeney. (Music out.)
PERCY
Another citizen..Yes, demme, you're all citizens these days, aren't you. Fascinatin', what?
CHAUVELIN
Even more fascinating that you have so quickly managed to persuade Mademoiselle St. Just and her brother to forsake their homeland. No doubt it is painful for them to leave while cries for freedom still fill the French air.
PERCY
Even more painful to stay while innocent blood still fills the French gutters.
(PERCY, MARGUERITE, and ARMAND exit, leaving CHAUVELIN alone, as the scene changes around him.)
No. 3 "Madame Guillotine" (Chauvelin, St. Cyr & ensemble)
CHAUVELIN
I know the gutter and I know the stink of the street.
Kicked like a dog, I have spat out the bile of defeat.
All you beauties who towered above me,
you who gave me the smack of your rod,
Now I give you the gutter,
I give you the judgment of God!
(A Guillotine is revealed.)
Vengeance victorious! These are the glorious days!
Women of Paris, come gather your bloody bouquets.
Now gaze on our goddess of justice,
With her shimmering, glimmering blade.
As she kisses these traitors, she sings them a last serenade!
(Prisoners are revealed being led from the prison through the mob.)
SCENE THREE - The Scarlet Pimpernel Musical Script -
The Prison
Sing! Swing! Savor the sting!
As she severs you -- Madame Guillotine!
Slice! Come, Paradise!
You'll be smitten with Madame Guillotine!
The world may be ugly, but each man must do what he must.
Give in, pretty dear -- in a year you will be pretty dust.
Now come let our lady possess you
in her breath-taking, hair-razing bed.
CHAUVELIN & MOB
She will tingle your spine as she captures your heart and your head!
(Soldiers push back a mob as the prisoners are led up to the guillotine.)
SCENE FOUR
Place de la Bastille
Sing! Swing! Savor the sting
As she severs you -- Madame Guillotine!
Slice! Come Paradise!
Our Delilah will shave you razor clean!
Swing! Savor the sting
As she severs you, Madame Guillotine,
Madame Guillotine, Madame Guillotine.
(As his hands are tied, one prisoner, ST. CYR sings.)
ST. CYR
God, when did man lose his reason?
Save us, my God, if you're there!
God, can you not feel the terror like a fire in the air?!
(ST. CYR'S head is placed in the yoke.)
Mob Flash! Slash! Glisten and gash! She will ravish you! Madame Guillotine! Split! Madame just bit! Give her more to bite! She's a hungry queen. Sing! Savor the sting as she severs you -- Madame Guillotine! Slice! Come Paradise! Chauvelin:(while chorus sings) Now Blow by blow We defy you Feel the glow Hear the cry Hearts will howl Blood will flow
CHAUVELIN
Hail Her Majesty!
MOB
Madame Guillotine!
(The guillotine blade falls. Blackout. Applause, music segues.)
SCENE FIVE
England, Blakeney Estate
The Wedding of Percy & Marguerite
(PERCY and MARGUERITE enter from opposite sides of the stage, joining at center.)
No. 4 "You Are My Home" (Percy, Marguerite & ensemble)
PERCY
From this day on I give myself to you
Here in my arms you will be free
I only want you as you are
Give me your trust
Grow old with me
MARGUERITE
I promise you to cherish and to hold
Now and as long as we both live
I'll make you laugh, I'll keep you warm
There is so much I want to give
BOTH
You are my home
You make me strong
And in this world of strangers I belong to someone
You are all I know,
You're all I have
I won't let go
PERCY
May god above shine through this love
To make us man and wife
BOTH
This is what I've wanted all my life
(The wedding guests enter.)
You are my home
You make me strong
And in this world of strangers I belong to someone
You are all I know
You're all I have
I need you so
I won't let go
You are my home
(PERCY and MARGUERITE kiss.)
No. 4 "Wedding Dance" (orchestra)
PERCY
Welcome to England, darling. Any questions?
MARGUERITE
Yes. In: -In England, Percy - when do the wedding guests leave the bride and groom:alone?
(After a beat, PERCY whirls about to the guests.)
PERCY
Time to go! Tally-ho! Home, everyone! Bedtime for all!
OZZY
Not bloody likely, m'lad. Not before we've danced with the bride!
PERCY
And so you shall, but if you think I'll relinquish my French jewel this quickly, you're quite mad!
(PERCY and MARGUERITE begin to dance.)
PERCY
Darling. I hope you like our English style of dancing.
MARGUERITE
It's lovely, Percy- yes, but perhaps later tonight I shall teach you how we French:dance.
PERCY
Later tonight, we shall not:be dancing.
(ELTON cuts in to dance with MARGUERITE.)
PERCY
Oh, all right then, Elton - you may borrow her for all of five minutes. But mind you don't tread upon her feet! She's made of crystal, my wife.
(Dewhurst enters.)
PERCY
Oh, but I do love the sound of that: "my wife".
DEWHURST
Percival.
PERCY
Dewhurst!
DEWHURST
Percy, I've just returned from Paris. I must speak with you. Now.
(The men take turns dancing with MARGUERITE as PERCY and DEWHURST step aside.)
PERCY
Dewhurst, though I do always relish a chat with you, I am at the moment a bit more eager to share my bridal night with my bride, so if this might wait --
DEWHURST
Percy, the Marquis de St. Cyr is dead.
PERCY
What?
DEWHURST
Yes. By the guillotine. And his family killed with him.
PERCY
But - :how?!
DEWHURST
Denounced by Citizen Chauvelin, whose power grows in France by the day.
PERCY
Yes, I know, but - But my God, Dewhurst - how did Chauvelin find him? I arranged the safe passage out.
DEWHURST
Percy, someone betrayed St. Cyr. Delivered to Citizen Chauvelin a note with the exact whereabouts of his hideaway.
PERCY
Impossible. No one knew but you and Ozzy and myself, and I suppose Marguerite knew. I'd trust you and Ozzy with my life, and Marguerite - :.Don't be absurd. Marguerite feels nothing but disgust for this new French regime.
DEWHURST
Percy, how well do you know your wife? In six weeks time, how well could any man know a woman?
PERCY
I know her as I know my own heart.
(DEWHURST takes a note from his pocket. It is the note Marguerite gave Chauvelin at the Comedie Francaise.)
DEWHURST
Then lay your eyes upon this. A note from your wife to Chauvelin. I was able to obtain it just before I left. I believe that is her hand.
PERCY
Yes. And her seal: Dewhurst- go into my library. Write across this note: "Thank you for your help." Write it in French - and sign it with Chauvelin's name. Then have the butler deliver it to my wife. Please. Dear friend. Do as I ask. You suggest my wife is a French:spy. When she disavows this note, you'll see how wrong you are:won't you?
(DEWHURST exits as MARGUERITE begins to dance with OZZY.)
MARGUERITE
Percy, do come dance with us!
PERCY
In a moment, m'dear.
OZZY
Oh, stuff, Lady Blakeney! Why would you want him when you've got me?
MARGUERITE
I must be stricken with some disease, Sir Osbert. For I do so deeply:want him.
OZZY
Poppycock. Let's hope by tomorrow you've come to your senses.
(All the wedding guests dance. As the dance ends, DEWHURST re-enters and JESSUP, the butler, enters and hands the note to MARGUERITE.)
MARGUERITE
Your ladyship.
OZZY
Heigh-Ho! Time to go then! This is no doubt a note from the impatient groom: "Do dispense with these pesky guests now, my angel - the night awaits us!"
(MARGUERITE reads the note, then places it in her bodice.)
MARGUERITE
No, no. 'Tis a note from an old friend. Wishing me well on my marriage.
ARMAND
From Suzanne de Tournay?
MARGUERITE
Yes - it's:from Suzanne.
PERCY
No:
DEWHURST
Oh, Percy, dear God, I am so sorry:
OZZY
We, too, wish you well on your marriage, my dear. All the joy and blessings you both deserve, what? Goodnight, Percy!
No. 4b "Wedding Exit" (orchestra)
GUESTS
Beautiful wedding! Welcome to England, Lady Blakeney. A lovely day! All the best, Percy. Goodnight, Armand! etc.
MARGUERITE
Percy? Are you unwell?
PERCY
No. Simply:tired. All that:dancing, I suspect.
MARGUERITE
Oh but: - you are angry with me? I'm sorry, Percy. I thought it would please you that I dance with your friends - but no, I should not have carried on so when they hardly know me. What must they think?
PERCY
No, no, m'dear. Sink me, I think you've won all their hearts. You are:such a demned remarkable:actress.
MARGUERITE
But I - wasn't acting, Percy. I was only happy. Oh, Percy do smile at me. Don't be the formidable Englishman. Why - you look just as you did on the night we met.
PERCY
Yes. Such a:short time ago. And you pegged me as a silly ass on the spot. N'est-ce pas?
MARGUERITE
No, Percy, I- :I only tease you sometimes for being English- You know how we laugh: you and I-: I think, we are both perhaps a bit tired and:not quite ourselves? Shall we go:inside, then?
PERCY
Indeed- just the thing. Gad, you must be simply exhausted, twirlin' about in that costume all day. Yes, you go to bed now.
MARGUERITE
Yes, all right, but- :You will join me soon, Percy? We have been waiting all this spring: for tonight.
PERCY
I believe I'll take the air for awhile, m'dear. But you go on. All things in good time, what?
(Confused, MARGUERITE exits, leaving PERCY alone onstage.)
No. 5 "Prayer" (Percy) - The Scarlet Pimpernel Musical Script -
PERCY
No -- stay. I don't care what you've said or done.
Don't go away. Not now when life has just begun.
Come back! And be the woman who I knew.
Help me to believe in you.
What on Earth am I to do?
She's gone, this vision who was not quite real.
I must move on, despite the pain. The pain will heal.
Oh Lord, how could you let me love like this?
No one dies upon a kiss, and only fools believe in bliss.
Oh yes! God knows I am a fool,
a man deluded by his wife,
a figure ripe for ridicule
who's lived a vain and useless life.
So be it then. I'll play that game!
I do not give a tinker's damn.
I'll be a fool -- it's all the same!
It truly doesn't matter what I am!
God, no!
I'm broken but I'm still alive.
And slowly, I will feel my soul revive.
With time,
I'll find a way to right this wrong --
if it takes my whole life long . . .
Lord, I'll fight my battles all alone,
but make me strong.
(The scene is transformed to Percy's library.)
No. 5a "Morning Horn Call" (orchestra)
Scene Six
Blakeney Estate: The Library
{and Limbo - then, Percy's Schooner}
(PERCY sits, asleep in his chair, as JESSUP enters, followed by nine men: DEWHURST, OZZY, ELTON, FARLEIGH, HAL, HASTINGS, NEVILLE, LEGGETT, and BEN.)
ELTON
But, Jessup - it's our tradition! The morning after, the groom must leave the bride and play cricket with the boys!
JESSUP
Yes, but in this case the groom's been up all night.
OZZY
He's been up all night? Well- I should hope so!
(JESSUP exits.)
BEN
But - he's still in his wedding clothes. Percy - what happened?
FARLEIGH
I suspect, Gentlemen, it's more a case of what did not happen.
DEWHURST
Leave him alone.
PERCY
No. Please. Don't leave me alone. Rather, tell me, lads, what should we do when the world turns upside down?
OZZY
Play cricket?
ELTON
Methinks he is not amused.
PERCY
What:should we do when our dear friend, the Marquis de St. Cyr, is betrayed and butchered in France? When hundreds are massacred every day?
DEWHURST
Percy, this may not be the time:
PERCY
Then when is the time? Do you hear me? Neighbor denounces neighbor - oh, and no longer just aristocrats, but teachers, priests, poets! Off go the heads - blood soaks the stones of the streets! I tell you they've gone insane, and I ask you: what should we do?
BEN
Write a letter.
PERCY
Ah, good. Hal - take this down: "Dear Robespierre, we in England are simply aghast. Please stop chopping off all those heads. And then we'll say: "Best wishes," etc., etc. - Think that should do it, boys?
ALL OTHERS
Just the job! Capital! Here, here! (etc.)
PERCY
No more letters! No more civilized, half-hearted attempts to help a friend- This isn't just a French war anymore- it's a war against:humanity! And I for one am no longer content to sit back on my pampered British ass and do nothing. Now I say we fight them.
BEN
Did he say "fight"? As in fight the French?
FARLEIGH
Percy, you're mad. Can't just rush in. Gad, we've no training, no preparation:
ELTON
No preparation? Farleigh, we're accomplished men, all of us, with training in-
FARLEIGH
In what? In Latin?
ELTON
Well, yes - Latin! And French. Philosophy. Military history.
FARLEIGH
Opera, Oration, and the Fine Arts. Marvelous. We'll out-think the French.
PERCY
That, Farleigh, is precisely what I had in mind. We use our heads. Think you can use your head, Ozzy?
OZZY
Lud, Percy, simply want to keep my head, I do.
PERCY
Ruses, boys. Tricks and games. Outwit the bastards. Use diversions - And disguise! We'll blend right into the French, dressed as God knows what - traveling merchants, peddlers, cripples:
HAL
Gypsies! Cossacks!
FARLEIGH
Do stay calm.
PERCY
While at home, we would appear the least likely of heroes, la creme de la creme of fancy fops. Gad, boys, what do people think of us now? Useless dilettantes, what? Good! For no one must suspect us.
FARLEIGH
Well, perhaps they think of you as a fop, Percy. As for me-
PERCY
Oh, rot, Farleigh- the last thing I heard you rage about was a crimp in your collar!
FARLEIGH
It was a dreadful collar!
PERCY
Splendid - Rage on! Don't you see, boys? We take what we are and go one step further, exaggerate ourselves into that breed of ninnies for whom injustice is a tough slice of mutton! Hal- what makes your blood boil?
HAL
Why, the French, Percy, this slaughter:
PERCY
No, no! What makes your blood boil is a cold cup of tea! Follow? Elton, when they ask you where you've been the last two days, what shall you say?
ELTON
Why - off netting butterflies!
PERCY
Bravo!
ELTON
I was off netting butterflies.
(Abruptly ARMAND enters, rushing forward.)
ARMAND
Percy - Let me go with you.
(PERCY and the MEN attempt to cover.)
PERCY
Armand! Gave us a fright, you did. Been:pacing the hallways, have you?
DEWHURST
Cramp in the leg, mayhap? Well, it's this beastly weather.
PERCY
La, yes, brings on the gout! Makes a fella twitchy, restless.
BEN
Ghastly humid!
ELTON
Sticky, sticky, sticky!
ALL BUT ARMAND
Frightful humid! Zooks, makes the muscles ache, it do! Gad, sticky, sticky! Etc.
PERCY
Perhaps a touch of sherry:
ARMAND
Percy, I've heard everything you've said.
(A beat. PERCY drops out of fop-mode.)
PERCY
And?
ARMAND
And, dear brother-in-law, I stand beside you. It is my country that has lost its senses- I shall fight this evil with you!
PERCY
Where is Marguerite?
ARMAND
She's out riding.
PERCY
She must know nothing of this. Do you understand? :For her own safety. And it is against my better judgment to involve you at all, boy.
DEWHURST
Well, he is French, Percy. Should we embark on this lunacy, Armand could be quite helpful:
HAL
Yes! He'll speak the French for us.
PERCY
Are you mad? We must all speak perfect French!
OZZY
Oh, Lud- S'il vous plait:-how does one say, "Please, may I keep my bloomin' head?"
ARMAND
Please, Percy. I will be strong and loyal.
PERCY
All right, yes, but if you ever breathe one word of this to your sister, I'll flail you within an inch of your life.
ARMAND
I won't. I swear it.
PERCY
All of you! Not a word to anyone - not to friends or valets, wives or sisters.
DEWHURST
And the Prince?
PERCY
No. this must not become a French-English war. This is our own private war.
DEWHURST
Well then, Percy- When do we start?
PERCY
We start right now. And may God be with us.
ELTON
Now, Percy? Well, but:November is a much better time for me:
(The MEN gather around Percy's chair as he opens his ring, and stamps down into sealing wax on paper.)
PERCY
Be prepared to sail to France within the week. I shall communicate with you by sealed note only. Each note will bear this stamp.
HAL
What is it? A flower?
PERCY
My family crest. The Scarlet Pimpernel. Never act on any instructions unless they carry the seal of the Scarlet Pimpernel.
OZZY
Percy, demme, we're eleven men -
PERCY
All the better. Secrecy needs limits.
OZZY
Eleven against thousands!
FARLEIGH
Percy, I welcome taking some:action as much as anyone, but-
PERCY
Christ, do you think I suggest this as simply a more thrillin' alternative to cricket?! Make no mistake: If you join me, you put your lives on the line, every one of you! We are all of us afraid. But, my friends, if we do not do this, who will?
No.6 "Into the Fire" (Percy and Bounders)
PERCY
David walked into the valley
with a stone clutched in his hand.
He was only a boy, but he knew
someone must take a stand.
There will always be a valley,
always mountains one must scale.
There will always be perilous waters which someone must sail!
Into valleys! Into waters!
Into jungles! Into hell!
Let us ride, let us ride home again with a story to tell!
Into darkness, into danger,
into storms that rip the night!
Don't give in, don't give up, but give thanks for the glorious fight!
You can tremble, you can fear it, but keep your fighting spirit alive, boys!
Let the shiver of it sting you, fling into battle! Spring to your feet, boys!
Never hold back your step for a moment!
Never doubt that your courage will grow!
Hold your head even higher and into the fire we go!
(Music continues under as the MEN throw off their waistcoats, grab props and costume pieces, practice dueling with swords and a butterfly net. Gradually the library flies - they are in limbo.)
Are there mountains that surround us?
Are there walls that block the way?
Knock them down, strip them back, boys, and forward, and into the fray!
PERCY AND LEAGUE
Into terror, into valor,
charge ahead -- no, never turn!
Yes, its into the fire we fly and the Devil will burn!
(The scene is transformed to Percy's schooner, which the MEN now board, sail billowing behind them.)
SCENE SEVEN - The Scarlet Pimpernel Musical Script -
The English Channel - Aboard Percy's Schooner
PERCY AND LEAGUE
Someone has to face the valley. Rush in! We have to rally and win, boys!
When the world is saying not to, by God, you know you've got to march on, boys!
PERCY
Never hold back your step for a moment!
Never doubt that your courage will grow!
PERCY AND LEAGUE:
Hold your head even higher and into the fire we go!
(Lightning flashes.)
PERCY
Let the lighting strike! Light the flash of it shock you!
(Lightning flashes.)
DEWHURST
Ready about! Heave to!
PERCY
Choke your fears away -- pull as tight as a wire.
FARLEIGH
Stand by to reef topsails!
PERCY
Let the fever spike! Let the force of it rock you!
ELTON
I just want to net butterflies!
PERCY
We will have our day, sailing into the fire!
HAL
Land ho!
PERCY
This is it!
(Lightning flashes and thunder rumbles as the MEN turn to put on their disguises. When they whirl about in unison, they have been transformed into a motley group of French townspeople.)
PERCY AND LEAGUE
Someone has to face the valley! Rush in! We have to rally and win, boys!
When the world is saying not to, by God, you know you've got to march on, boys!
PERCY
Never hold back your step for a moment!
Look alive! Oh, your courage will grow!
PERCY AND LEAGUE
Yes its higher and higher and into the fire we go!
PERCY
Into fire!
LEAGUE
Onward ho!
(As the number ends, the scene is transformed from Percy's schooner to the Place de la Bastille:.When the applause crests, the music segues.)
SCENE EIGHT
Place de la Bastille
No. 6a "The Rescue Ballet" (orchestra)
(Soldiers attempt to hold back an angry mob as MARIE and other prisoners are pulled onstage. Through a series of choreographed vignettes, PERCY and his MEN rescue the prisoners. During the course of the "Keystone Kops" ballet, PERCY, dressed as GRAPPIN, pins a "Pimpernel" note on the guillotine. At close, only MERCIER and COUPEAU remain onstage, bound together at the base of the guillotine as PERCY (GRAPPIN) stands casually to the side.)
(CHAUVELIN enters, untying MERCIER and COUPEAU.)
CHAUVELIN
You idiot soldiers! You utter, total, brainless, bungling, rattle-headed, halfwit-
ROBESPIERRE
Citizen Chauvelin.
CHAUVELIN
Citizen Robespierre.
ROBESPIERRE
Have we perhaps had another:incident? Five weeks:Five weeks now, Chauvelin, we sit like lame idiots as this Englishman taunts us!
CHAUVELIN
My soldiers were:abducted!
ROBESPIERRE
But of course. Just as last week we had a flash fire. And the week before, Chauvelin - What was that particular diversion:Hmmm?
CHAUVELIN
The geese.
ROBESPIERRE
Oh, yes. The geese. That was thrilling, wasn't it? All over the square, nipping, and pecking and squawking- How many geese did you catch?
CHAUVELIN
123!
ROBESPIERRE
Good for you.
GRAPPIN
But no one ever caught that "blind" old goose woman, did they?
ROBESPIERRE
Did they?!
CHAUVELIN
She vanished into thin air!
ROBESPIERRE
And who vanished last month? A wet, foggy night and 30 prisoners escaped when our jailers ran away from-:?
MERCIER
A ghost. It was the ghost:of Julius Caesar.
ROBESPIERRE
Julius:Caesar?
COUPEAU
It spoke Latin!
ROBESPIERRE
Ah. Chauvelin? Do be so good as to:.veni-vidi-vici your way up to the guillotine, and retrieve that slip of paper. Couldn't be the mark of the Scarlet Pimpernel, could it?
(CHAUVELIN takes the "Pimpernel" note from the guillotine.)
GRAPPIN
But of course. A plain piece of parchment engraved with one red flower.
CHAUVELIN
Your name, Citizen?
ROBESPIERRE
I'll handle this, Chauvelin. Yes, your name?
GRAPPIN
Grappin.
ROBESPIERRE
Papers?
GRAPPIN
I am the Belgian.
ROBESPIERRE
You? You are the Belgian spy? Yes, of course - Grappin. I received a message from my sources just last week, recommending a new Belgian operative- Yes:I hear, Grappin, that you are a man who understands the use of terror :in defense of virtue.
CHAUVELIN
So. You know about this Pimpernel? And what do you say to all this?
GRAPPIN
Your men are fools.
ROBESPIERRE
Citizen, come to my office. Now.
(GRAPPIN exits.)
ROBESPIERRE
That, Chauvelin, is the man with whom you will henceforth work hand in hand. Is that understood?
CHAUVELIN
I will catch this Scarlet Pimpernel!
ROBESPIERRE
You will? Oh, good. A far better choice than living out your days in prison, wondering how one man could outwit the entire French army.
(ROBESPIERRE exits.)
No. 7 "Falcon in the Dive" (Chauvelin)
CHAUVELIN
Hunt for the man! Comb the city! Every street! Every grate!
Set a guard at every gate! Drag him out! Shout the moment that you find him!
Damn!
(MERCIER exits.)
Knock in the doors! Lock up the city! Track him down through this town!
And be quick about it! Now!
(COUPEAU exits.)
How the devil do I ever prevail when I'm only a man?
But I'll never be duped by this scurrilous phantom again . . .
I wasn't born to walk on water.
I wasn't born to sack and slaughter.
But on my soul, I wasn't born
to stoop to scorn and knuckle under.
A man can learn to steal some thunder.
A man can learn to work some wonder.
And when the gauntlet's down, its time to rise and climb the sky!
And soon the moon will smolder and the winds will drive.
Yes, a man grows older but his soul remains alive.
All those tremulous stars still glitter and I will survive.
Let my heart grow colder and as bitter as a falcon in the dive.
(Soldiers enter marching in formation.)
There was a dream -- a dying ember.
There was a dream -- I don't remember.
But I will resurrect that dream though rivers stream and hills grow steeper.
For here in hell, where life gets cheaper --
oh, here in hell, the blood runs deeper.
And when the final dual is near, I'll lift my spear and fly.
Piercing into the sky, and higher! And the strong will thrive!
Yes, the weak will cower, while the fittest will survive!
If we wait for the darkest hour 'til we spring alive,
Then with claws of fire, we devour like a falcon in the dive.
CHAUVELIN
Grappin! Where is this Belgian - I want him now or -
(GRAPPIN enters.)
GRAPPIN
Yes?
CHAUVELIN
Get to England. We're sure this Pimpernel is British aristocracy- with connections to the Prince of Wales. Work your way into that circle of men, but begin with a woman- a French woman- the actress Marguerite St. Just. She is now Lady Blakeney, and undoubtedly moves within this same circle. She may be of use to us. Follow her. Follow them all! Find out who is the Scarlet Pimpernel!
(GRAPPIN exits.)
These are the days! Yes! Days of glory! Days of rage!
And the dream -- the dream of Paris preys on my bones --
gnawing night and day and --
clawing through my brain and --
No! Never kneel! Never bend! Rend him to bits! Bite!
Now the beauty of the fight! Go!
(The soldiers exit.)
I am not a man to hunger for blood, but the spirit can cry
to be younger and fiercer and fly -
Piercing into the sky, and higher! And the strong will thrive!
Yes, the weak will cower, while the fittest will survive!
If we wait for the darkest hour 'til we spring alive
then with claws of fire,
we devour like a falcon in the dive!
(Fade to Black - music segues on applause.)
SCENE NINE - The Scarlet Pimpernel Musical Script -
Blakeney Estate: The Drawing Room
No. 8 "The Scarlet Pimpernel" (Percy, Marguerite, Marie & girls)
FEMALE SERVANTS
Who is the Scarlet Pimpernel?
(Each servant separately)
I'm told he swaggers on a heath
With several daggers in his teeth
They say he cracks the longest whip
And has the stiffest upper lip
I've heard he's had his skin tattooed
And dances in the nude
ALL
Who is the Scarlet Pimpernel?
PERCY
Dances in the nude? But surely he wears shoes?
Now really, girls- you can't believe just anything you hear
For accuracy I look to the daily press
Today they say the fellows a Venetian gondolier
MARIE
A lusty Latin lover
PERCY
Yes, well, more or less
And although he's feeble minded
They report he's all the rage
When he travels with his twelve foot spear
He was seen the other day
Hacking off a Frenchie's ear
SERVANT
An ear?!
PERCY
And two kneecaps?
FEMALE SERVANTS
He's always at it tooth and nail
PERCY
There's always someone to impale
But he relaxes now and then
To take a sail upon the Seine
MARGUERITE
I wish he'd sail away with me
PERCY
Or simply come to tea?
FEMALE SERVANTS
This plucky ne'er-do-well
PERCY
This lucky bloody swell
ALL
Who is the Scarlet Pimpernel?
MARIE
Sir Percy, do resume your pose. - Ladies:
(All but two of the servants exit. PERCY resumes the pose for his portrait. JESSUP enters followed by ARMAND.)
JESSUP
Lady Blakeney, Monsieur Armand has returned.
(As JESSUP exits, MARGUERITE runs to embrace ARMAND.)
MARGUERITE
Armand? Armand, you're home?! Oh, I don't think I like all these trips you take of late, little brother. Where is it you go?
PERCY
Feeling his oats, m'dear. Youth and all that rot. Armand, I believe you know our guest- Mademoiselle Marie Grosholtz? She's just recently come. From Paris.
ARMAND
Yes, of course, Mademoiselle. You:made my sister's beautiful costumes.
PERCY
And what do you know, Armand? There she was, fresh off the boat with nowhere to go, and what do you think? Cleverest thought came to me: a companion for the wife! La, demned clever, I do think- puttin' two French friends together, pass the time, do whatever women do, eh what, m'dear?
MARGUERITE
This particular woman is an artist.
(PERCY crosses to look at the portrait on Marie's easel.)
PERCY
Sink me, it's true! Mademoiselle Grosholtz is just finishin' my portrait, Armand, and I do believe it's - (seeing the portrait) Oh, but I'm breathtaking! And presently the Mademoiselle's vowed to do a bust of me. We'll put it in the garden, shall we? My head atop a flag post. La! We'll make a fountain out of it, water spittin' from my mouth, what? Well, for then I can water the roses!
(MARGUERITE draws ARMAND aside as PERCY chats with the servants, and MARIE returns to her easel.)
MARGUERITE
Armand, I do wish you wouldn't go off and leave me alone quite so often.
ARMAND
Wasn't Percy here?
MARGUERITE
Percy's never here. Even when he is:he won't speak with me, he makes jokes, he walks away. He isn't who I thought he was.
ARMAND
You're wrong, Marguerite. Percy is lighthearted, yes, but he's a good man, strong and brave-
MARGUERITE
Oh, darling, I know you're fond of Percy- but don't idealize him into some shining knight, some- ..Scarlet Pimpernel.
ARMAND
The: Pimpernel..? But-
PERCY
The Pimpernel?! Zooks, Armand, I believe 'twas that very fellow snatched Mademoiselle from the mouth of La Guillotine! Sink me, makes a fella shiver!
GIRL 3
Oh, Mademoiselle - The Scarlet Pimpernel saved you?!
GIRL 4
Does he really carry daggers in his teeth?!
PERCY
No doubt he's got stilettos in his toenails. Armand, do spare me any more nightmares- :by never mentioning that jackanapes again. Girls, take him off and give him a bite to eat- The boy's giddy with hunger.
(ARMAND exits with the two servants. MARGUERITE crosses to look at the portrait.)
PERCY
:Recognize me, Marguerite? Ah, but then I don't suppose you would - What was it you said t'other day, m'dear?
MARGUERITE
Percy:
PERCY
Wife gave me a good look-over and said- what was it, then?
MARGUERITE
"Why have you changed? I barely recognize you."
PERCY
Yes, demme, that's it, and I said, "La, m'dear, would you have me wear the same breaches to dinner as I wore to luncheon? A gentleman always changes!"
MARIE
Sir Percy.
(PERCY returns to his pose as MARIE turns to MARGUERITE.)
MARIE
I think, Lady Blakeney, should you look in his eyes:you will recognize him:.
(The room darkens around Marguerite, as she sings.)
No. 9 "When I Look at You" (Marguerite)
MARGUERITE
When I look at you, what I always see
is the face of someone else who once belonged to me.
Still I can hear him laugh,
and even though that melody plays on, he's gone.
When I look at you, he is standing there,
I can almost breathe him in like summer in the air.
Why do you smile his smile?
That heaven I'd forgotten eases through in you.
If you could look at me once more
with all the love you felt before --
if you and I could disappear into the past
and find that love we knew,
I'd never take my eyes away from you!
When I look at you, he is touching me.
I would reach for him, but who can hold a memory?
And love isn't everything.
That moonlight on the bed will melt away
Some day!
Oh, you were once that someone who I followed like a star.
Then suddenly you changed and now I don't know who you are.
Or could it be that I never really knew you from the start!
Did I create a dream?
Was he a fantasy?
Even a memory is paradise for all the fools like me.
Because I miss him so. . .
When I look at you.
(Lights back up as JESSUP enters.)
JESSUP
Lady, Blakeney, you have a visitor in the rose garden.
MARGUERITE
In the garden?
(JESSUP exits.)
PERCY
No doubt it's a frog, m'dear. Toads and frogs do prefer meetin' a princess in the garden- Always hopin' for that kiss, don't you know:
No. 9a "Playoff: When I Look at You" (orchestra)
(MARGUERITE exits)
PERCY
Marie, a letter's just come from Paris. We've made contact with your fiance.
(MARIE crosses to PERCY.)
MARIE
With Tussaud?
PERCY
Yes, and not only is he safe:
MARIE
Oh, thank God!
PERCY
:but we now make our headquarters in the poor bloke's cellar! Can you do your work there?
MARIE
In his cellar? Yes, of course! Tussaud will work beside me.
(ARMAND enters, crossing to PERCY and MARIE.)
PERCY
Armand - there you are. I wouldn't bother to unpack your bags, my boy. We must get Marie back to Paris in the morning. You'll take her straight to the hideaway and tell Dewhurst- Oh, didn't I tell you? She's working with us now.
ARMAND
You, Mademoiselle? But I had no idea-
MARIE
Nor did I. Until last evening. Your leader is very persuasive.
PERCY
We can't speak here.
MARIE
I will fetch my shawl and meet you both by the river then?
(MARIE exits.)
ARMAND
Tomorrow morning, Percy? But - what shall I tell Marguerite? I've only just returned. She worries so for my safety, and if she finds out I go to France-
PERCY
Don't let her find out. Give another excuse. Lord only knows what new excuse I'll give her - Perhaps I should "go fishing in Scotland" again:
ARMAND
She'll believe it. She has no idea who you really are. Lord, Percy, why don't you just tell her the truth?
PERCY
Armand, she is to know nothing.
ARMAND
But- :why don't you trust her?
PERCY
Odd's my life, boy, who trusts anyone in this slippery world? Better to play the game, what? Be on your guard. Zounds, when the heart goes soft, that's when the dagger plunges in. Off with you then. I'll meet you be the river.
(ARMAND exits as the scene changes to the garden.)
Scene Ten
Blakeney Estate: The Garden
No. 9b "When I Look at You" (reprise) (Percy & Marguerite)
(PERCY and MARGUERITE, in different parts of the garden, stand alone and sing.)
PERCY
Oh, you were once that someone who I followed like a star
Then suddenly you changed and now I don't know who you are
MARGUERITE
Or could it be that I never really knew you from the start?
PERCY
Did I create a dream?
MARGUERITE
Was he a fantasy?
Both
Even a memory is paradise for all the fools like me
MARGUERITE
Now remembering is all that I can do
PERCY
Because I miss her so
MARGUERITE
I miss him so
BOTH
When I look at you
(As the song ends, PERCY exits. JESSUP escorts CHAUVELIN into the Garden.)
MARGUERITE
Chauvelin,: What in God's name are you doing here?
CHAUVELIN
I've just arrived in England, milady.. What could be more natural than to pay a visit on an old friend?
MARGUERITE
You're no friend of mine, Chauvelin. You lied to me.
CHAUVELIN
Ah, yes, that poor man you denounced- St. Cyr. Robespierre made the decision to execute. What could I do?
MARGUERITE
Do you think I ever would have given you information had I known you'd kill the man?! I'll have that family's blood on my hands as long as I live!
CHAUVELIN
It's unfortunate, yes, but how pleasant to see you no longer suffer, having:transplanted:like a rose:to such surroundings.
MARGUERITE
Chauvelin, if you came here to apologize-
CHAUVELIN
I am not in the habit of sailing the Channel to make apologies, Marguerite. No, I'm here on state business. I did, however, also wish to speak with you. The Revolution seems to-
MARGUERITE
The Revolution is out of control. I have cut all ties with that murderous regime, and with you, Chauvelin. Please go.
CHAUVELIN
Yet:surely your heart is still loyal to the Republic. Work with me again, Marguerite. You will do your country the greatest service to help discover the identity of this Scarlet Pimpernel.
MARGUERITE
What?! That is why you come here? You're mad!
CHAUVELIN
Not at all. I now know you travel close to the Prince of Wales, as does the Pimpernel. It would be easy for you:
MARGUERITE
What, you- you've had me watched?
CHAUVELIN
Oh, Marguerite:shall we dispense with the indignation? You, also, are quite the clever spy, and I suggest you return to that occupation or there may be:trouble. Perhaps in your marriage?
MARGUERITE
Blackmail, again, Chauvelin? Go ahead. Tell my husband about our "liaison." Believe me, what he feels for me today will never change, no matter what you do!
(PERCY enters.)
PERCY
Marguerite? It seems that tomorrow Marie will be leaving us- : (Seeing CHAUVELIN) but lovely to see that: others : join us.
MARGUERITE
Percy, you remember Citizen Chauvelin- from Paris?
PERCY
How do. Indeed- the Citizen! Oh, but that name. Citizen Sh- uh- Shew- : Forgive me- Have a bit of trouble with the French language, I do. Spell the name for me, will you?
CHAUVELIN
C-H-A-U-
PERCY
C-H-U- yes:Chew- Ah-choo! Yes?
CHAUVELIN
No, no- Show- Show- A-U-V:
PERCY
Ah, Sho-sho! Like a little dog name! Got it, yes- and V- ?
CHAUVELIN
Yes, V-E- No- Only one Show- just one- Show! V-E-L-
PERCY
One-Sho-Sho- yes, then V-
CHAUVELIN
One Show! Then V! E! L!
PERCY
Ah, Vel! So: Chew-One-Sho-Sho-Vel!
CHAUVELIN
What?!
PERCY
What?!
MARGUERITE
Honestly, Percy. Chauvelin. C-H-A-U-V-E-L-I-N.
PERCY
Ah yes, Shove-Lynn! That's a stunning name! Won't you come in and have a sip of tea with us then, Monsieur Shovelynn? Bit sticky out here, isn't it?
MARGUERITE
He was just leaving.
PERCY
Oh, blast. And me yearning to discuss a bit of Paris fashion. Tell me, is it true you're no longer wearing lace on your jabots?
CHAUVELIN
We have little time or use for lace in Paris these days, Sir Percival.
PERCY
Sink me! Makes a man fear for the future- Oh, it do, don't it? No lace at all? Oh Good God!
CHAUVELIN
How reassuring, Marguerite, to see you've married a man of such discerning values. And now I'll take my leave of you.
(As CHAUVELIN kisses Marguerite's hand, PERCY crosses in behind him.)
PERCY
But you'll be staying on in England, I do so hope. Small holiday for you, is it?
MARGUERITE
I'm sure Citizen Chauvelin returns to France immediately. He has no reason to remain here.
CHAUVELIN
Actually-
(CHAUVELIN turns, almost colliding with PERCY.
PERCY
Oh! Give warning before you heave about! You frightened me. It's: all that black so close up. You wear black rather incessantly, do you? No, no, I love black. Just not on me. But you were saying?
CHAUVELIN
I'll be in England one week, Sir Percy. Actually, I've been invited to attend a royal ball. The-
PERCY & CHAUVELIN (together)
Prince's ball.
PERCY
But how simply thrilling!
CHAUVELIN
Yes.
PERCY
Why, we, too, shall be there!
CHAUVELIN
Ah!
PERCY
The wife and I! La, but is it so soon? I must see to my attire straightaway!
(PERCY starts to leave. CHAUVELIN follows him.)
PERCY
Jessup! Summon my valet!
(PERCY turns back, again almost colliding with CHAUVELIN.)
PERCY
Oh! How you do creep up on a person! We'll have to hang a bell about your neck. But we'll make it black. I think perhaps my ruby satin for the royal ball, Marguerite- what? Oh, yes- it do shimmer so! (Into CHAUVELIN'S face) Mmmmmmmm:.
(PERCY exits.)
CHAUVELIN
I could:book you passage with me on the boat back to France, my dear:
MARGUERITE
This:is my home.
CHAUVELIN
I see. So. You have traded Rousseau for rose gardens, and I, apparently, am replaced by:that. Most intriguing. Tell me, Marguerite, how do we compare? Exactly what sort of lover is your husband? My God:you:don't know! Do you? Yes: Of course: a man like that would simply be lost in your bed.
MARGUERITE
What do you know of it, Chauvelin? You and I never loved each other. Go now. Leave me.
CHAUVELIN
How can I leave you? Marguerite. You do not belong in this cold land- with no one to understand you, to touch you:The girl I knew could not bear this another moment:
No. 10 "Where's the Girl?" (Chauvelin) - The Scarlet Pimpernel Musical Script -
CHAUVELIN
I remember days full of restlessness and fury.
I remember nights that were drunk on dreams.
I remember someone who hungered for the glory.
I remember her, but it seems . . . she's gone . . .
Where's the girl?
Where's the girl with the blaze in her eyes?
Where's the girl with that gaze of surprise?
Now and then I still dream she's beside me . . .
Where's the girl?
Who could turn on the edge of a knife?
Where's the girl who was burning for life?
I can still feel her breathing beside me
And I know she remembers how fearless it feels
to take off with the wind at your heels -- she and I took this world like a storm!
Come again!
Let the girl in your heart tumble free.
Bring your renegade heart home to me.
In the dark of them morning
I'll warm you, I'll rouse you . . .
Marguerite, don't forget I know who you are.
We were cut from the same surly star, like two jewels in the sky, sharing fire.
Where's the girl, so alive and still aching for more?
We had dreams that were worth dying for.
We were caught in the eye of a storm!
Come again!
Let the girl in your heart tumble free.
Bring your renegade heart home to me.
In the dark of the morning,
I'll warm you, I'll rouse you . . .
Where's the girl?
Is she gazing at me with surprise?
Do I still see that blaze in her eyes?
Am I dreaming or is she beside me . . . now . . .?
MARGUERITE
No- :Get out- :
No. 10a "Exits and Entrances" (orchestra)
(CHAUVELIN exits, as MARIE and ARMAND enter from another part of the garden.)
ARMAND
Marguerite.
MARGUERITE
Marie- what is this Percy tells me? You are leaving us?
MARIE
Yes, Marguerite. I leave tomorrow for France. But I promise you, this time, to come not quite so close to the blade of La Guillotine.
MARGUERITE
But why go back? This is lunacy.
MARIE
Marguerite, my fiance needs me now. There is:important work we must do together.
MARGUERITE
But- to travel there alone-
MARIE
Oh, not alone, no. Armand will be with me:
MARGUERITE
Armand?! No!
ARMAND
It- It is only to: see Marie safely home. I-
MARIE
I will- :leave you both and say goodbye in the morning. Marguerite- :I shall never forget the kindness you have shown me- you:and your husband.
(MARIE exits.
MARGUERITE
Armand- No more of this traveling about, do you hear me? And to France- Mon Dieu! How can you think it? You are all the family I have in this world- Dear God, what would I do if you were- :
ARMAND
I swear to you, I won't die.
MARGUERITE
How can you swear such a stupid thing?! Of course you'll die, we all will, only I don't want you to go and do it now. Oh, be careful, my little brother. Please: be careful:
No. 11 "You Are My Home" (reprise) (Marguerite & Armand)
MARGUERITE
You are my only brother and my friend
What would I do if you were gone?
ARMAND
Why are your eyes so full of fear?
I will be here
We will go on
BOTH
You are my home
You make me strong
And in this world of strangers
I belong to someone
You are all I know
You're all I have
I need you so
I won't let go
(As darkness falls around them, ARMAND and MARGUERITE slowly back away from each other and exit.)
SCENE ELEVEN
(Blakeney Estate: The Library)
(As the lights come up, PERCY stands in his library, wearing an outrageous outfit. JESSUP enters.)
JESSUP
Sir- The Gentlemen have been:readied.
PERCY
Send them in.
(JESSUP exits. DEWHURST, OZZY, ELTON, FARLEIGH, HASTINGS, LEGGETT, NEVILLE, HAL and BEN enter, wearing equally outrageous outfits.)
DEWHURST
Percy, really now- there is a limit.
PERCY
Patience, lads. There's a method to my madness.
DEWHURST
But 'tis madness! Spies and cutthroats surround us and we play dress-ups?
PERCY
Precisely.
FARLEIGH
Percy! I demand to know why I'm forced into this get-up! Upon leaving my house, the footman giggled - right in my face!
ELTON
Well, I think it's rather nice for a change. Quite:summery.
PERCY
Elton, sometimes you frighten me: But- we shall all continue to look "summery" for a while yet, boys. Desperate times call for desperate measures, what? We've been summoned to the palace.
BEN
The palace?
FARLEIGH
By the prince?
PERCY
Yes. He has his suspicions. If he finds us out, he'll shut us down straightaway. British-French relations are tenuous enough these days without rabble rousers running about.
HAL
Is that what he calls us? Rabble Rousers?
PERCY
That is how he refers to "the Pimpernel and his men", whomever they might be. But he'll never think it's us, will he? Naturally not, for the mere mention of that scoundrel makes us:
ALL
:Swoon?
PERCY
Indeed! Such ruffians besmirch the very name of manhood. Nay, 'tis our duty as males not to rush to the battle, but to the tailor!
No. 12 "The Creation of Man" (Percy & "Bounders")
PERCY
Peacocks!
ELTON
Sink me!
PERCY
Think ye, sir,
How those feathered boys
Love to flaunt their tails!
Stallions!
FARLEIGH
Zounds, sir!
PERCY
Hounds, sir! Stags!
DEWHURST
Of the goosie and the gander, sir
Which gender is the grander, sir?
PERCY
To render total candor, sir:
The splendor is the male's!
OZZY
But Percy, I simply can not hop about wearin' pink chiffon.
PERCY
Ozzy, whatever we must do to deflect suspicion, we shall do- which in this case is: to shimmer!
PERCY
Be an example to your sex.
Give your boot a dapper strap.
And it's smarter if your garter has some snap.
Cravats should be flounced about our necks.
Wear a nightcap when you nap-
Be bewitching with some stitching on your cap.
Now drape your cape and puff you cuff!
Embroider those lapels!
Be the king of the beasts in pastels!
La, but someone has to strike a pose
And bear the weight of well-tailored clothes!
And that is why the Lord created men!
DEWHURST
Percy. Armand and Marie await us in Paris. Conditions are more dangerous than ever, and in the face of all this, you expect us to-
PERCY
-to convince all of bloody England that we're nincompoops!
PERCY
Strut, sir!
DEWHURST
What, sir?
PERCY
Roosters do.
Give a cock his comb and the hens will pale.
Buck, bulls!
ALL
More, sir!
PERCY
Boars, sir! Rams!
DEWHURST
Of the nanny-goat and billy, sir,
Whose beard is fully wooly, sir?
PERCY
It's bully for the billy
For he's willy-nilly male!
OZZY
Lud, Percy, you're the best-dressed man in London. You can get away with this, but the rest of us-
PERCY
Sir! Be a lion-hearted prig!
Fill those pantaloons with light!
OZZY
I could dangle down a spangle: out of sight:
PERCY
Oh yes!
PERCY
Be bold!
FARLEIGH
When it's cold, slap on that wig.
BEN
Draw your breeches in quite tight-
PERCY
Even more so and your torso will ignite!
HAL
Now smock your frock!
ELTON
Perfume your plume!
OZZY
I'll let my waistcoat swing!
ALL
And the jungle will bow to its king!
La, but someone has to strike a pose!
And bear the weight of well-tailored clothes!
PERCY
And that is why the Lord created men:
Yes!
ALL
That is why the Lord created men!
"Dance Break"
(PERCY pulls a handkerchief from his sleeve and begins to instruct the MEN in how to behave like a fop.)
ALL
And the jungle will bow to its king!
PERCY
La, but someone has to strike a pose!
And bear the weight of well-tailored clothes!
ALL
And that is why the Lord created men! Men!
That is why the Lord created men.
"Dance Break"
PERCY
Gentlemen, remember what we're here for,
Why we must be dressed:to kill.
ALL
If we have to look like Cleopatra,
Then we will!
If you're out to make a splash, cheri-
Do know your haberdashery!
Buttons, buckles, ruffles and lace
Represent the human race!
(The scene changes to the Royal Palace.)
SCENE TWELVE
England, The Royal Palace
SENTRY
His Royal Highness, the Prince of Wales!
(The PRINCE OF WALES enters, as PERCY and his MEN make a grand entrance, closing out the song.)
PERCY & BOUNDERS
La, but someone has to strike a pose!
And bear the weight of well-tailored clothes!
Each species needs a sex that's fated
To be highly decorated!
That is why the Lord created men!
PRINCE OF WALES
Is that you, Percy?
PERCY
Highness! How well you're lookin'!
PRINCE OF WALES
I protest, you lie, Blakeney, smooth as a cat.
PERCY
You've caught me out.
PRINCE OF WALES
No more lies, my lad. No, called you here for a bit of candor. I have reports you fellas sail back and forth to France at a dizzyin' pace these days- what's that all about then?
PERCY
Frou-frou!
PRINCE OF WALES
Beg pardon?
BEN
Frou-frou!
ELTON
Frills!
DEWHURST
Fabric!
PERCY
Where else can one get the finest but France?
FARLEIGH
Even in these days of butchery, the French do still turn out such rickrack!
OZZY
Gad, but we must have their trim, tassels, taffeta!
HAL
Whatever the cost!
PERCY
So back and forth we go-
ALL (singing)
Row, row, row your boat:
PRINCE OF WALES
Yes, but- :you're sure you're not hooked up with this: Pimpernel fellow?
(The MEN'S reactions range from horror to hilarity.)
PRINCE OF WALES
Hmmmm. Well, I must say you are all lookin' quite:quite:
PERCY
Summery?
PRINCE OF WALES
Yes. Quite. Summery. Oh, very well. You may continue certain brief and politic trips to France for the purposes of uh- :'frou-frou' only. Oh, and next trip, pick me up one of them silly hats, what?
(SENTRY enters.)
SENTRY
Citizen Chauvelin, Agent of the French Republic.
(SENTRY exits as CHAUVELIN enters with his two aides, MERCIER and COUPEAU.)
PRINCE OF WALES
Oh, yes. Citizen Chauvelin, we've been expecting you.
PERCY
Shovelynn!
CHAUVELIN
Sir Percy.
PERCY
You here to see the Prince? Zooks, Highness- what larks! Most stimulatin' fella, Shovelynn.
PRINCE OF WALES
We have agreed to meet with the citizen in hopes of finding a common ground between our two governments, though I must tell you, Chauvelin, as long as your regime follows its current bloody course, I have little hope.
PERCY
And speaking of "hopeless", perhaps, Highness, you might suggest to Shovelynn that he, too, pick up a new hat. But no- then we'd have to re-do the whole thing, head to foot. Never mind.
CHAUVELIN
I believe we have more important things to discuss.
PERCY
Ye God, yes! The Royal Ball! Highness, what are you wearing?
PRINCE OF WALES
Wearing? No idea, Blakeney. What about my ruby satin?
PERCY
Oh, blast, blast, blast! No, but you simply can't. I'm in ruby satin. Isn't that right, Shovelynn? Because it shimmers, yes?
BOUNDERS
Mmmm:
PERCY
Oh, do forgive us, but we must speed straightaway to the royal closet and help the Prince select his garb for the ball this evening. Come, Highness- quickly! Oh, no, he doesn't mind. Do you, Shovelynn? You wait right here 'til his Highness returns, and then he'll chat with you all about revolutions and so forth. But, well, I mean: first things first!
PRINCE OF WALES
Very well then, uh- :.Shovelynn- I'll be with you shortly.
(The PRINCE OF WALES exits.)
PERCY
Come, boys! We've but hours to choose the right cravat!
No. 12a "Creation of Man: Exit" (orchestra)
(PERCY exits with his men.)
CHAUVELIN (to his aides)
Go. Stay in the shadows, but find what you can. Bring me papers, documents- anything that might pertain to this Pimpernel. Now!
No. 13 "The Riddle - Part I" (Chauvelin)
(MERCIER and COUPEAU exit.)
CHAUVELIN
Stick to your purpose and don't let the fire burn out
An eye for an eye and to hell with those shadows of doubt
No one blinds me with tricks and diversion
No one quickens my heart on the sly
I am here for one reason
And all other reasons must die
(Music segues.)
No. 13a "The Riddle - Part II" (orchestra)
(MARGUERITE enters.)
CHAUVELIN
Ah, I see you received my message, Lady Blakeney. And you came. How:cooperative.
MARGUERITE
It's not often I receive a message informing me that I hold someone's life in my hands, Chauvelin. Would that be my life:or yours?
CHAUVELIN
Your brother's. Yes. Unfortunately, my dear, it seems your brother has been arrested in Paris.
MARGUERITE
You-:you think I'll believe this?
CHAUVELIN
I suggest that you do.
MARGUERITE
Why would they arrest him?
CHAUVELIN
For conspiracy against the French government. Your brother is a member of the league of the Scarlet Pimpernel.
MARGUERITE
It's not true!
CHAUVELIN
Ah, but it is. And now I put it to you, Marguerite: Will you use what great influence you have to uncover the identity of the Scarlet Pimpernel? For if you do not, Armand will be guillotined.
MARGUERITE
Chauvelin! My God! But- you can stop this: you have power in France-
CHAUVELIN
What do you care about this British rogue? Betray him!
MARGUERITE
You ask the impossible! No one knows who he is! How on earth am I to do this? Where? When?
CHAUVELIN
Tonight. At the ball. The Pimpernel, I am certain, will be there, and nothing is impossible for the "greatest actress in Europe".
MARGUERITE
Damn you, Chauvelin! :And:if I can do this thing, you will release Armand?
CHAUVELIN
I swear it.
MARGUERITE
Can I trust you?
CHAUVELIN
Can I trust you?
No. 13b "The Riddle - Part III" (Percy, Marguerite, Chauvelin & chorus))
CHAUVELIN
See the moon slink down in the sky, darling.
Let your fantasies fly, darling.
Life is cold and the game is old.
MARGUERITE
Just see how virtue repays you --
you turn and someone betrays you.
Betray him first and the game's reversed!
BOTH
For we all are caught in the middle
of one long treacherous riddle.
Can I trust you? Should you trust me too?
CHAUVELIN
We shamble on through this hell,
MARGUERITE
taking on more secrets to sell,
BOTH
'til there comes a day when we sell our souls away.
(PERCY enters)
PERCY
La, m'dear- I heard you'd been seen in the palace, but I said, "No, quite impossible. The wife's at home:waiting for me." Apparently not. Is:.something wrong?
MARGUERITE
No. No. Citizen Chauvelin has simply brought me:news. News from Paris.
PERCY
I see. Well. I was:on my way home. To change for the ball, don't you know: You'll be happy to hear, Shovelynn, I've found something lovely for the Prince to wear tonight. And now I'd be only too happy to turn my hands to you- Ah, but no. You'll be wearing:black, won't you?
CHAUVELIN
I am quite:resolute, yes. And now I go to meet with the Prince.
PERCY
Are you :coming with me, Marguerite?
MARGUERITE
In a moment. I- :am not sure what:to do:
CHAUVELIN
Sometimes quick decisions are best.
PERCY
Ah yes. Bring on:the moment of truth:
PERCY
Through the mist your lover is beckoning . . .
comes that moment of reckoning,
faces change, even smiles grow strange.
ALL
And we all have so many faces
the real self often erases.
Enticing lies flicker through our eyes!
Feel the terror draw ever nearer
the more you stare in the mirror,
but hold your own, face the wind alone.
CHAUVELIN
Reel on, love! Toughen your scars!
Year by year, we're falling like stars
ALL
'til there comes a day when we sell our souls away!
PERCY
Can I run to you? Are you true to me?
CHAUVELIN
I'll do unto you as you do to me!
MARGUERITE
And we slowly learn someone has to burn.
ALL
Better you than me.
PERCY
Oh, every Judas once loved a Jesus.
MARGUERITE
But finally treason will seize us!
CHAUVELIN
And only fools follow golden rules!
ALL
We all are caught in the middle
of one long treacherous riddle
of who trusts who . . .
maybe I'll trust you . . .
but can you trust me?
Wait and see!
End of Act I
-ACT II-
No. 14 "Entr'acte" (orchestra)
SCENE ONE
England, The Royal Palace, The Ballroom
(The curtain rises on a masked ball in progress. Present are the PRINCE OF WALES, CHAUVELIN, and assembled guests.)
No. 14a "Opening Act II - The Scarlet Pimpernel" (Percy, Marguerite, ensemble)
GUESTS
Who is the Scarlet Pimpernel
Who is the Scarlet Pimpernel
Who is the Scarlet Pimpernel
(PERCY and MARGUERITE enter.)
PERCY
Lud love me
Such conjecturing could drive a man insane
And I'm the one to set this gossip quite to rest
The Pimpernel is me
MARGUERITE
Indeed, and I'm the queen of Spain
PERCY
She's disguised herself but now she has at last confessed
MARGUERITE
I confess to nothing more than admiration for a man
Who so gloriously risks his life
PERCY
Did you hear that, one and all?
Why, the Pimpernel's bewitched my wife
MARGUERITE
The man's a hero
PERCY
He's a drunk
A fiddling Nero
MARGUERITE
He has spunk
PERCY
What bunk! The man's a lazy lout...
MARGUERITE
And still I long to find him out
BOTH
This secret simply will not keep
For England's losing sleep
MARGUERITE
It's time to break the spell
PERCY
Won't someone bloody tell?
ALL
Who is the Scarlet Pimpernel?
(Music immediately segues.)
PRINCE OF WALES
Lovely Sir Percy, but I'm afraid that's one question we won't answer tonight. The man's not here.
CHAUVELIN
Ah, but I suspect: he is.
PERCY
Sink me- it's the Citizen! Oh, and look how he do scan this room. Cover yourselves, men! Methinks he seeks the Pimpernel.
No. 15 "They Seek Him Here" (Percy & ensemble)
PERCY
They seek him here
They seek him there
Those Frenchies seek him everywhere
Is he in heaven or is he in hell
That demmed elusive Pimpernel
PRINCE OF WALES
Is that true, Citizen? You've come all the way to England to look for this Pimpernel?
PERCY
Because, Highness-
PERCY
He meddles with the Frenchie revolution
Popping in and out each week
Spoiling every lovely execution
La, what cheek!
They seek him here
They seek him there
Those Frenchies seek him everywhere
MARGUERITE
If you should see him
Please do give a yell
BOTH
That demmed elusive Pimpernel
CHAUVELIN
The rumor is the Pimpernel is British
PERCY
A Brit who's playing peek-a-boo
Ooh, were I the Pimpy I'd feel rather skittish
CHAUVELIN
It's not you
PERCY
Oh, Thank God!
BOUNDERS
It's possible our hero flirts with danger
MARGUERITE
Oh, I wish he'd flirt with me!
PRINCE OF WALES
Methinks I feel the evening growing stranger
CHAUVELIN
Ah, mais oui
PERCY
Oh, such an accent! What those Frenchies can't do! And what else do they do?
ALL
They seek him here
They seek him there
Those Frenchies seek him everywhere
PERCY
Is he up yonder or down in the dell?
PRINCE
Where is this blasted Pimpernel?
CHAUVELIN
I believe he's here upon your own shore
PERCY
Dancing round these hallowed halls?
PRINCE
Well, after all, we Englishmen are known for splendid balls
ALL
They seek him here
They seek him there
PERCY
The ladies seek him everywhere
PERCY
Marguerite, what should you say to him?
MARGUERITE
Please tell me how I might identify you
There are many things I 'd like to ask
PERCY
Were I the Pimpy, tell me, what should I do?
BOUNDERS
Drop your mask!
PERCY
No need for vulgarity:
ALL
They seek him here
They seek him there
Those Frenchies seek him everywhere
Is he in heaven or is he in hell?
That demmed elusive Pimpernel
No. 15a "Ouilles Gavotte" (orchestra) - The Scarlet Pimpernel Musical Script -
(Music for the Gavotte begins under.)
PERCY
Marguerite? Will you:dance?
MARGUERITE
Oh, Percy- I don't know what to do. I-
PERCY
I see. You've promised this dance to someone else.
(PERCY turns away.)
MARGUERITE
No- Don't go. Always you leave, you put me off:
PERCY
Ah, but that gives you all the more time to spend with your other:friends.
MARGUERITE
Stop it. Percy. Oh, God, what have I done that you should hate me so?
PERCY
And what have I done that you should turn and live another life behind my back?!
MARGUERITE
Oh, I don't know what to say to you anymore!
PERCY
Then say nothing, my dear. Simply dance.
(PERCY and MARGUERITE dance. Partners change and MARGUERITE dances with CHAUVELIN.)
CHAUVELIN
Marguerite, you know a man by the name of Farleigh? And another who goes by the name of "Izzy" or "Ozzy"?
MARGUERITE
Why?
CHAUVELIN
I've learned that just before your brother was arrested, he spoke these names- names perhaps of his confederates?
(Partners change again, as the dance continues. MARGUERITE now dances with OZZY.)
MARGUERITE
Ah, Sir Osbert, what am I to do?
OZZY
Do, my dear? Why- you're not ill, are you?
MARGUERITE
Only ill with curiosity. Is it possible that: - Might you perhaps be a member of- Oh, Ozzy- do you know the Pimpernel?!
(As the dance continues, PERCY and OZZY dance adjacent to one another.)
OZZY
Ah, there you are, Percy. Your wife asks a great many questions tonight.
PERCY
Is that so?
OZZY
She thinks perhaps I know the Pimpernel. I assume that I don't?
PERCY
Shhh!
(As the dance continues, PERCY and OZZY move away from each other. MARGUERITE once again dances with CHAUVELIN.)
MARGUERITE
Chauvelin, if you suspect these men are in league with the Pimpernel, why not seize and question them yourself?
CHAUVELIN
Ah, my dear, if but I could. You forget we are on English soil. What power have I here?
MARGUERITE
None:save your power over me.
CHAUVELIN
A pretty state of affairs, is it not? Go to work, Cherie. Now.
(MARGUERITE moves toward FARLEIGH as PERCY and DEWHURST pass each other.)
DEWHURST
What's Chauvelin up to?
PERCY
Not sure.
DEWHURST
And:your wife? Percival- your wife?
(MARGUERITE is now dancing with FARLEIGH.)
FARLEIGH
Lady Blakeney-
MARGUERITE
It shall be our secret:
FARLEIGH
But I tell you, I have no idea who the Pimpernel is. Even if I did: what makes you think the man is here tonight?
MARGUERITE
Dear God, we both know he is here - I see it in your eyes! Farleigh, now I beg of you- If you know him, pray find him, tell him I must speak to him tonight- soon. What hour is it?
FARLEIGH
Near midnight, Milady.
MARGUERITE
At one o'clock then. Tell the Pimpernel I shall wait for him outside. On the footbridge. You must deliver this message, Farleigh. I tell you- it is a matter of life and death.
(FARLEIGH moves away. Both CHAUVELIN and PERCY hear as MARGUERITE says)
MARGUERITE
The footbridge. One o'clock.
(The scene is transformed to the Footbridge.)
SCENE TWO
A footbridge in the garden near the Ballroom
(MARGUERITE paces on the Footbridge. Percy enters from behind, careful to never let her see him.)
PERCY
Lady Blakeney? No:stay as you are:If you turn and look on me, you will endanger the lives of those you love.
MARGUERITE
:You are the Pimpernel?
PERCY
I am. You asked to meet with me?
MARGUERITE
Yes. I- No. No- go. And quickly. Is it one o'clock yet?
PERCY
We have some time. But did you not promise Chauvelin that I would be here at one?
MARGUERITE
Yes, but-
PERCY
Then we don't want to disappoint him, do we?
MARGUERITE
Do you know:my brother? Armand St. Just? I've heard he is one of your band.
PERCY
And?
MARGUERITE
They've arrested him. Oh God, I would never have done this for Chauvelin- only he made it a condition of releasing my brother. They'll kill him.
PERCY
They won't kill him. They'll:question him.
MARGUERITE
But Chauvelin told me-
PERCY
Don't trust Chauvelin. (A beat.) This is not the first time you've done dirty work for Chauvelin, is it?
MARGUERITE
No. He has forced my hand before. Please- go. He'll be here any moment.
PERCY
How has he forced your hand?
MARGUERITE
He threatened to tell Percy - my husband - certain things about my past, but-
PERCY
Such as?
MARGUERITE
Dieu, they seem so petty now, compared to-
PERCY
Tell me.
MARGUERITE
In France, I lived as a:free woman. You understand? I met Chauvelin the day we stormed the Bastille. He became my lover. It was brief- it was:mad. But it happened. This spring, when Percy and I were about to be married, Chauvelin came to me: "How would you like your husband to know what sort of woman you are?"
PERCY
And:would your husband have left you if he knew about:your past?
MARGUERITE
I was so afraid he would. But if he knew now:I doubt he'd care one way or the other.
PERCY
Go on:
MARGUERITE
Chauvelin promised silence if I found out where the English had hidden away the Marquis de St. Cyr. But Chauvelin lied. He promised not to kill St. Cyr. He's killed so often now- he won't hesitate with Armand. Can you save my brother? If you cannot, then somehow I will. Clearly, I'm beyond scruples.
PERCY
You would never be so foolish as to sail to France alone?
MARGUERITE
Armand is my brother-
PERCY
Do you think I would ever let harm come to that boy? (Recovering his composure.) Lady Blakeney, I will save Armand.
MARGUERITE
Oh, if you can- yes! But leave now- Please, before Chauvelin comes- save yourself, dear sir. Go.
PERCY
That decision is mine. But you must go now. Go- and find your husband:
(MARGUERITE turns to leave.)
PERCY
You're- :wrong, you know. I believe the poor sot loves you:
(MARGUERITE exits.)
No. 16 "She Was There" (Percy)
PERCY
So many nights I have stood in the moonlight,
watching it fade into dawn,
wanting her back with me, warm in the moonlight,
knowing that moment was gone --
out of mind, out of sight -- 'til the moon rose . . . tonight . . .
All at once I felt a chill.
In a spill of moonlight . . . she was there.
Though we both held very still,
there was something pulling in the air.
When she whispered through the dark,
I tried hard to hold my ground.
I believed I had a choice 'til the music in her voice
turned my whole world around.
I would like to understand,
but the stars and I begin to blur . . .
If she never touched my hand,
then what filled me with the feel of her?
In between us stood a wall.
In a flash it fell apart!
Is it possible she heard every last unspoken word
racing out of my heart?
She never turned to me,
but suddenly we had so much to share!
I never took her in my arms,
but she was there!
Oh, she was there!
No, I never pulled her in!
Still her tenderness was everywhere!
Oh, she slipped beneath my skin,
just as if she'd always been right there!
Has she been there all along?
Was I too far gone to know?
What a fool I must have been, for how could I pull her in,
when I've never let her go?
(As PERCY turns to exit, he collides with CHAUVELIN.)
CHAUVELIN
Blakeney?!
PERCY
Shovelynn! Demme, then you're the Scarlet Pimpernel!
CHAUVELIN
What's that?
PERCY
I heard he was to be here at one o'clock. The Pimpernel! Everybody said so, you know. I wanted to catch a glimpse of the fellow- it's you then, is it?!
CHAUVELIN
Good God, Blakeney- please move along now. I have- :business here.
PERCY
But of course you do! You're meeting your band of merry men! Demned clever of you, posing as this ass Shovelynn over there in Paris, when all along you're a hero!
CHAUVELIN
Blakeney, I am not the Scarlet Pimpernel, and will you kindly return to the ball?
PERCY
But if you're not-:
CHAUVELIN
Now!
PERCY
Well!
(PERCY exits, then quickly returns.)
PERCY
Ah! Got it! A rendezvous! You're meetin' with the Pimpernel! But where is he? Oh, Pimpernel! (lurching forward) Pimpy!
(Excited, CHAUVELIN leans over the bridge railing.)
PERCY
April fool! (Shouting again, into the dark) Come out, come out, wherever you are! Shovelynn wants to talk business with you and I'm simply longing to see your costume!
CHAUVELIN
Merde! This man is a nincompoop!
(As CHAUVELIN exits.)
PERCY
And proud of it, sir! (Looking about) Boys! Boys- Where are you?
(Music starts under as Percy's MEN run on.)
DEWHURST
Percy! Word's just come from Marie in Paris- they've got Armand!
PERCY
Yes, I know. Hal- do we still have our contact within the prison?
HAL
Armand's not in the prison, Percy. We don't know where they've taken him.
PERCY
Right. Then we'll just have to go find him, won't we? Oh, you ninnies- they won't kill him. They want him alive as much as we do! Off with you then! Ready the boat! We sail to France tonight!
(The MEN run off leaving PERCY alone.)
No. 17 "Tag: She Was There" (Percy)
PERCY
Has she been there all along?
Was I too far gone to know?
What a fool I must have been, for how could I pull her in,
when I've never let her go?
(Percy runs off.)
SCENE THREE
France, The Cafe
(Lights up on a cafe, a military hang-out where soldiers are entertained by tarts singing rowdily from "Storybook". MARGUERITE, disguised as a tart, sits with MERCIER and COUPEAU, all three slightly drunk.)
No. 18 "Bistro Reprise: Storybook" (Marguerite & ensemble)
TARTS
La- la- la- la- (etc.)
MARGUERITE
But you are lying to me!
COUPEAU
No! We captured the boy last week. He is a member of the band of The Scarlet Pimpernel.
MARGUERITE
And he is here?!
MERCIER
We interrogate him here secretly- so the Pimpernel can't find him.
MARGUERITE
Oh, you soldiers tell such stories. Just because I am new to Paris, you think I'll believe anything.
COUPEAU
But it's true!
MARGUERITE
Oh, then prove it to me- : You show me this boy- this, this-:
MERCIER
St. Just. He's a Frenchman. Armand St. Just.
MARGUERITE
Yes, yes, but if it were true, you would show him to me. If he does exist, Dieu, what fun to tell my friends I have seen this prisoner: And later tonight: what fun we three have together, hmmm?
COUPEAU
I'll get the keys.
(COUPEAU exits as the tarts continue "Storybook".)
FRENCH GIRLS
Listen to me I have beautiful dreams I can spin you,
Dreams to linger within you.
Close your eyes and we'll ride my carousel.
(CHAUVELIN enters, spots MARGUERITE.)
Come let's believe love can be just as sweet as it seems.
Let's live on dreams . . .
(CHAUVELIN crosses to MARGUERITE and pulls her forward.)
CHAUVELIN
Mes amis! Please welcome back to France, in her first return engagement, Mademoiselle Marguerite St. Just! (yanking off her wig) And now perhaps she will sing the song for us as it was meant to be sung. That is- :if she still:speaks:French!
MARGUERITE Et sur mon manege, l'amour toujours est chantant. De mes reves, c'est le commencement, et j'espere une fin heureuse. Marguerite and French Girls: Mais la fin de l'histoire ne vient pas tres doucement, pour l'histoire il faut faire semblant. Certes je n'embrasse que mes reves, seuls mes reves. And on my carousel, love is always singing.Of my dreams, its the beginningand I hope for a happy end. But the end of the story doesn't come sweetly,for the story, one must make believe.Surely I hold nothing but my dreams, only my dreams.
CHAUVELIN
Welcome home, Marguerite.
(The scene transforms to a prison.)
No. 18a "Into the Prison" (orchestra)
SCENE FOUR
The Prison and a Paris Street
(CHAUVELIN confronts MARGUERITE as MERCIER and COUPEAU stand guard.)
CHAUVELIN
You do know, Marguerite:that I admire you- yes? Coming here to find your brother- that shows spirit, courage: But did you truly think I could be near you and not know you? Even you: are not that great an actress. Will you sit:milady?
MARGUERITE
Armand is here?
CHAUVELIN
Ummm.
MARGUERITE
He is:well?
(PERCY enters, disguised as GRAPPIN.)
CHAUVELIN
At the moment. Ah. Grappin. Do you recognize Mademoiselle St. Just? She has taken off her British:costume, and dressed herself more in her:true colors. Marguerite, allow me to introduce the man who has been tracking your every step these many weeks. The Belgian Grappin. (MARGUERITE turns away.) Tsk-tsk, Marguerite. Such bad manners and from an English lady.
MARGUERITE
Enough games, Chauvelin. You know why I am here. I will do anything to save my brother. Name your:price. But release Armand.
CHAUVELIN
Grappin, you go. You question the boy. I find I have better things to do tonight.
GRAPPIN
But- there may be a better way- :to question the boy.
CHAUVELIN
My men get nothing from him! Mercier, lead Grappin down to the boy. Do whatever you have to but-
MARGUERITE
No-
GRAPPIN
You catch a fly with honey, Citizen. A brother will confide in:a sister.
CHAUVELIN
Umm. Coupeau! Bring the boy! (To Marguerite:) You want your brother to live?
(COUPEAU exits.)
MARGUERITE
You have to ask this?
CHAUVELIN
Two things- Tonight: Who is the Pimpernel? Where does he hide while in Paris? Armand will not live another day if you fail.
MARGUERITE
I will not fail.
CHAUVELIN
And:you will also be a:friend to me again, yes?
(COUPEAU reenters with ARMAND. MARGUERITE runs to her brother.)
MARGUERITE
Armand!
CHAUVELIN
Well, St. Just- your sister has come to "save" you. Perhaps you will talk:to her?
GRAPPIN
Citizen, you must leave him alone with his sister.
ARMAND
I will not talk.
MARGUERITE
No, Armand, you must! Dear God, tell them about the Pimpernel, and you and I walk away from here!
ARMAND
No. I have not slept, I have not eaten- They have tortured me-
MARGUERITE
No-
ARMAND
-but I will never betray the Scarlet Pimpernel. Nor will you, Marguerite! Do you hear me? A finer man never lived. I love this man- who is worth ten of you, you pig!
(ARMAND lunges at CHAUVELIN. CHAUVELIN pushes him to the floor. MARGUERITE tries to slap CHAUVELIN, but he grabs her arm.)
CHAUVELIN
I would say, Marguerite, that you will live to regret that. Alas: You will not live. Prepare them for execution.
GRAPPIN
No- Let me take them, Citizen, and we have done with it now. Two quick cuts.
CHAUVELIN
No. (To MARGUERITE:) You are a stubborn fool! Think what you might have had here with me in France, in your own country. Instead you die as a traitor, and quite alone.
MARGUERITE
No, Chauvelin. It is you who are alone.
(COUPEAU and MERCIER exit with MARGUERITE and ARMAND. PERCY, as GRAPPIN, starts to follow them.)
CHAUVELIN
Grappin! You:stay.
GRAPPIN
You are wrong to put them in prison. The Pimpernel-
CHAUVELIN
Yes- the Pimpernel! My sources- they say he's in Paris. And what do you know about this ring? It bears the crest of the flower?
GRAPPIN
:Yes. And the fool:never takes it off.
CHAUVELIN
And apparently he carries Swiss papers. Every soldier in Paris must know the Pimpernel bears these papers and- this ring!
GRAPPIN
But the brother and sister- let me take them now before-
CHAUVELIN
NO! Grappin, you:do not kill your bait until your mouse:steps into the trap. Let it be widely known that the St. Justs are to die. Spread it through Paris!
GRAPPIN
The:guillotine then?
CHAUVELIN
Yes. But:not in Paris. No, the Pimpernel's tactics work too well within the crowded streets: Another guillotine. Elsewhere:
GRAPPIN
Why not the seacoast? Guillotines line the French coast. The Pimpernel- he must use a secret harbor. If we could find a way:
CHAUVELIN
:for the boy to lead us to their harbor: If the boy were to:escape:
GRAPPIN
If he were to receive a flowered note from the Pimpernel:
CHAUVELIN
Instructing him to go to their harbor- yes! If only we could do it in the Pimpernel's hand: How are you at forgery, Grappin?
GRAPPIN
This one, I think I could manage.
CHAUVELIN
Excellent! We go to the seacoast then: where we kill all the pretty birds with one stone!
GRAPPIN
But you no longer have need of the woman- Let me take her now-
CHAUVELIN
Out of here, Grappin! Do as I've told you!
(GRAPPIN exits.)
No. 19 "Where's the Girl" (reprise) (Chauvelin)
CHAUVELIN
I remember days full of restlessness and fury . . .
I remember nights that were drunk on dreams . . .
I remember someone who hungered for the glory . . .
I remember her . . .
(As CHAUVELIN sings, the scene is transformed to the street.)
Let her go! Let her live, let her die on her own!
We are all of us bruised and alone.
Now we both will have nothing to hold!
Let her know! Hurl it into her renegade heart
that the best of our dreams fell apart!
And the dark . . . of the morning . . . grows cold . . .
(CHAUVELIN runs off - music immediately segues.)
No. 19a "Into the Bat cave" (orchestra)
SCENE FIVE - The Scarlet Pimpernel Musical Script -
The Hideaway
(PERCY, dressed as a friar, stumbles into a darkened room. As lights come up, we see members of The League, hard at work. MARIE and TUSSAUD are busy at a make-shift waxworks. DEWHURST studies maps. BEN and HAL clean and load muskets. FARLEIGH models a soldier uniform for ELTON who acts as a tailor. OZZY sorts through costumes hanging on a rack.)
DEWHURST
Percy!
OZZY
Did you find them?
PERCY
Yes. In the prison.
FARLEIGH
Dear God. And your wife? She is:?
PERCY
My wife's not the fainting sort, Farleigh. She'll hold up and spit them in the eye 'til her last:breath.
ELTON
But did you get near them, Percy? Were you able to-
(PERCY removes his friar's robe to reveal his Grappin disguise.)
PERCY
No. No "visiting friars." Even "Grappin" is not allowed near them.
(PERCY removes part of his Grappin disguise.)
ELTON
Chauvelin doesn't suspect- ?
PERCY
No. But he no longer confides in Grappin either. All I know is he'll follow Armand to the seacoast, and there they hope to trap:all of us.
FARLEIGH
Dear Lord- what if Chauvelin brings full armies-:
BEN
Percy- what if they arrive by daylight?
PERCY
Ah, Tussaud. I see your new bride has put you to work already? Good. Marie, how goes it?
MARIE
We work as quickly as we can, my friend. We will not sleep tonight.
PERCY
None of us will. We must be finished by morning. Ben- this demned contraption- does it work?
BEN
We think so, Percy. We-
PERCY
Think so?! We cannot afford guesswork!
No. 19b "Street Drums" (orchestra)
(Several SOLDIERS enter and cross through upstage.)
HAL
Soldiers!
(They all freeze until the SOLDIERS exit.)
They've gone.
PERCY
But they'll be back. Tussaud- can you stand watch? Marie- check the front!
(MARIE and TUSSAUD rush out.)
PERCY
Quickly! And lock the doors! Blast! Where did you put the bloody uniforms, Elton- and the hats?! Find them. Dewhurst, you've tried this second route to the coast? It's quicker, then? What do we save- close to an hour?
DEWHURST
But we can't take that route. Remember? The new barricades went up. Percy, it's- it's bad this time. Very bad. Chauvelin's got the city crawling with soldiers.
OZZY
Zounds, Percy- they're tossin' people up against the walls, willy-nilly-
FARLEIGH
Searching pockets, checking passports-
HAL
Grabbing hands. Percy, they're seizing the rings off people's fingers!
BEN
They're looking for your ring.
ELTON
Get rid of the thing, Percy.
PERCY
No, I can't! Oh, this is madness! No. This must stop. And now. The danger is too great. I will continue. I have every reason to, for if my wife and her brother die, my life: will be over. But that is not true for the rest of you, my:dear friends. I cannot- : I will not ask you to go forward with me in this reckless plan one moment longer. I insist that you:go home. Back to England. Tonight. As for Marguerite and Armand-: I will find a way-: I will-:
OZZY
And we:will be beside you.
No. 20 "Into the Fire" (reprise) (The Bounders)
OZZY
Into darkness
Into danger
Into storms that rip the night
DEWHURST
Don't give in, Don't give up
OZZY
But give thanks for the glorious fight
ELTON
Someone has to face the valley-
Rush in, we have to rally and win, boys
HAL
When the world is saying not to
By god, you know you've got to march on, boys
FARLEIGH
Never hold back your step for a moment
BEN
Never doubt that your courage will grow
BOUNDERS
Hold your head even higher and into the fire we go:
(Fade to Black - music immediately segues and continues under dialogue.)
SCENE SIX
The Prison
(Prisoners crowd the cell. Among them are MARGUERITE and ARMAND.)
MARGUERITE
Armand:
ARMAND
Believe me - we will be saved.
MARGUERITE
The Pimpernel will not come. No one's coming. We turn to God now.
ARMAND
You don't understand. Percy would never let us die.
MARGUERITE
Percy?! Armand, don't do this - it's only harder for both of us. Percy has no idea we're here, and even if he did- No, don't make me think of Percy. Not now.
(ARMAND turns away to leave her in peace for a moment.)
No. 21 "I'll Forget You" (Marguerite & ensemble)
MARGUERITE
I'll forget you
The more you stay inside of me, The weaker I grow
I'll forget you
Tomorrow I will turn and let you go
I'll grow colder
I'll lose myself in anything but you now
For there is nothing I can do now
But forget
I'll forget you
I won't remember arms that pulled me in soft and slow
I'll forget you
There has to be a way to let you go
No more shadows
No dreams of leaning in the dark above you
I will forget how much I love you any day
But every time I close my eyes, you come to me again
I swear I feel your touch upon my skin
You haunt me everywhere
Till I reach into the air
Trembling to think of all the nights that might have been
I'll forget you
I hear you whisper to me in the dark, still I know:
I'll forget you
God help me see a way to let you go
I do not want you
And still you steal each breath I'm breathing from me
With just a touch you overcome me
And I let you
I will forget you
When I die
(Music continues under as a Soldier enters.)
COUPEAU
Citizens! The tumbrels are here! As your name is called, move forward- out and into the carts!
(As the names are read, the prisoners rise and slowly exit.)
MERCIER
Citizeness Bibot-Mouret! The former Duc de Pressy and family! The Widow Bridier. Citizeness Helene Dessin and daughter! Citizeness Josephine de Beauharnais! The poet Andre Chenier! Citizen Jean-Baptiste Fauconier! Madame Lucille Desmoulins! The former Vicomte de Lillet! The former Duc de Challis! Armand St. Just!
MARGUERITE
I will forget you:
SOLDIER
Marguerite St. Just:
MARGUERITE
When I die:
(MARGUERITE crosses to ARMAND. They exit hand in hand.)
(Music segues on applause.)
SCENE SEVEN
Outside the Prison
No. 22a "Chauvelin's Ruse" (orchestra)
(Outside the prison, CHAUVELIN enters followed by ROBESPIERRE. Music continues under dialogue.)
ROBESPIERRE
Well?
CHAUVELIN
They near the cart:
ROBESPIERRE
And the carriage?
CHAUVELIN
In position.
ROBESPIERRE
You realize, Chauvelin, our heads are on the line over this plan- your head and mine: The Committee grows ugly: Do you think they would hesitate to denounce us?
CHAUVELIN
Our men are in place.
ROBESPIERRE
Then give the signal. Now.
(CHAUVELIN fires a gun.)
VOICES OFF
They escape! Stop them! Stop that carriage! They're escaping! Etc.
ROBESPIERRE
And?
CHAUVELIN
It seems, Robespierre:we have had another:incident.
ROBESPIERRE
They've escaped?! A pretty plan, Chauvelin! Stylish.
CHAUVELIN
They're in the carriage! Heading for the West Gate!
ROBESPIERRE
Just so! But the note? The paper with the scarlet flower?
CHAUVELIN
Thrust into the boy's hand. He took it.
ROBESPIERRE
Yes- Let the St. Justs escape. Make the boy think his own men have rescued him-
CHAUVELIN
And he will lead us to Calais perhaps? Boulogne? Whichever port the bastards use! He'll lead us straight to their boat and to the Pimpernel! Robespierre, I vow to you, before a new day dawns, it shall be recorded that the Scarlet Pimpernel fell to Madame Guillotine!
(Blackout.)
No. 22b "In the Coach" (orchestra & chorus)
(Music continues as scene is transformed and under following dialogue.)
SCENE EIGHT
Interior of a rumbling carriage
(Lights up on the interior of a rumbling carriage. MARGUERITE calls to ARMAND. Music continues underscoring dialogue.)
MARGUERITE
Armand! What are you doing?! Come back!
(ARMAND climbs through the carriage window.)
ARMAND
I had to give the driver directions.
MARGUERITE
But where are we going?
ARMAND
To Miquelon. On the seacoast.
MARGUERITE
And the driver doesn't know the route?!
ARMAND
Apparently not. Well, he must be someone Percy:hired:But couldn't speak with. Yes- So:he left the directions up to me. What did I tell you, Marguerite? I knew they'd save us!
MARGUERITE
Someone Percy hired?
ARMAND
What?
MARGUERITE
You said Percy must have hired the driver.
ARMAND
Well, I- I haven't slept in three days! Naturally I meant- the Pimpernel.
MARGUERITE
Really, Armand, I am still aghast that you would recklessly throw yourself in with the Pimpernel-
ARMAND
Marguerite, look! The West Gate! We've cleared the barricades! From here, it's open road to the coast.
MARGUERITE
And you're sure we are not being followed?
ARMAND
Marguerite I've told you - 'Twas our men saved us! (Showing her the note.) This is our sign: the scarlet flower.
MARGUERITE
But I hear other horses- several horses-
ARMAND
Then it is Percy- why do you worry so? No doubt he set off right behind us- with Dewhurst, for he's the fastest rider, though I'm getting faster every week, Marguerite. You should see me- : Now, isn't that the strangest thing:I said "Percy" again:didn't I?
MARGUERITE
How:did you meet the Pimpernel, Armand?
ARMAND
Meet him? I-
MARGUERITE
Yes, for it would:have to be someone close by you, someone you could:meet with:easily, someone you tell me- over and over- is good and strong, even though I-
ARMAND
You're wrong, Marguerite. I-
MARGUERITE
Someone no one on God's green earth would suspect, not even his wife!
ARMAND
No, but I swore:
MARGUERITE
Tell me!
ARMAND
Mon Dieu! How am I to keep this secret?!
MARGUERITE
Is it Percy?! You tell me!
ARMAND
YES!
MARGUERITE
OH MY GOD!
(Blackout. Music continues for Storm Scene Change. The offstage CHORUS joins the orchestra singing a wordless [Ah-] addition to the melody; then orchestra continues under dialogue.)
SCENE NINE
A remote spot on the French Seacoast
(Visible are a rickety pier and a rough-hewn guillotine. Thunder and lightning as ARMAND and MARGUERITE run on. Music continues under dialogue.)
MARGUERITE
Percy! Percy, where are you?!
ARMAND
Ozzy! Dewhurst!
MARGUERITE
My God, Armand. There is a guillotine:in Miquelon?
(THUNDER.)
ARMAND
No. No. I have never seen this before- But:this is Miquelon:isn't it?
MARGUERITE
Armand, where are we?
ARMAND
No, this is Miquelon. There is the pier, the rocks. And look- out there- our boat! And now-: a guillotine. Oh, god, what has happened to our country, Marguerite?
(Thunder as CHAUVELIN appears from behind the guillotine - music segues.)
CHAUVELIN
Traitors- this is no longer "your" country. (Thunder.)
No. 22c "Chauvelin in Miquelon" (orchestra)
ARMAND
Oh, Lord: What have I done:?
CHAUVELIN
Oh, I think you know what you've done, St. Just. Led yourselves and your leader into a tight little trap.
MARGUERITE
No:
CHAUVELIN
So. Miquelon, is it? (Regarding the guillotine.) Yes, of course. Much easier to come and go in a modest little fishing village. And what a pleasant surprise we have here. The French Republic grows more efficient by the day. Mademoiselle Guillotine: tonight you shall kiss the neck of their beloved Pimpernel.
(THUNDER.)
ARMAND
You'll never catch him, Chauvelin!
CHAUVELIN
I believe you're right, Armand. On my own, I never would. But actually I do bring:Company!
(THUNDER.)
(As CHAUVELIN shouts this last word, soldiers enter and line the seascape.)
MARGUERITE
Percy! Percy- Run! Run! Wherever you are-:
CHAUVELIN
Percy? Why- : do you call for your husband, my dear?
MARGUERITE
No:No:
CHAUVELIN
Is it even:remotely possible-
(PERCY, dressed as GRAPPIN, runs on.)
GRAPPIN
Chauvelin!
CHAUVELIN
Grappin!
GRAPPIN
It's Blakeney! (THUNDER.) The Pimpernel- it's that fool Percy Blakeney!
CHAUVELIN
Dear Christ- right in front of my eyes- : Do you have him?!
MARGUERITE
God, no-:
GRAPPIN
He got away! Took off on his horse with two other men!
CHAUVELIN
Heading where?
GRAPPIN
Toward Calais!
CHAUVELIN
Quickly! The entire division to Calais! Leave me only this squadron- After them!
(THUNDER. All but 10 of the soldiers exit.)
You're sure it was him?
GRAPPIN
It's your man.
CHAUVELIN
Did he have Swiss papers?!
GRAPPIN
Yes.
(PERCY hands the papers to CHAUVELIN.)
CHAUVELIN
Good! And the ring! Was he wearing the ring?!
GRAPPIN
He was.
(PERCY shows the ring on his hand.)
CHAUVELIN
Good! You got the ring: You: got the ring. How:did you get the ring:from a man who: "took off on his horse":?
(Music segues..)
PERCY
Yes. Well, you've got me there. Can't plan for everything, you know. Enchante, as always, Shovelynn!
No. 22d "The Duel" (orchestra)
(PERCY removes the Grappin disguise. CHAUVELINE grabs a sword from one of the soldiers and takes a swing at PERCY.)
MARGUERITE
Percy! Oh God, Percy- look out!
(PERCY ducks. CHAUVELIN grabs another sword.)
CHAUVELIN
Not: a one of you:is to interfere. This fight is:mine. Have a sword, Blakeney- because it do shimmer so!
(CHAUVELIN tosses a sword to PERCY.)
MARGUERITE
Percy, don't fight him! Run!
ARMAND
Honestly, Marguerite- Percy can fight.
MARGUERITE
He can?
PERCY
That's right. I can fight!
(PERCY and CHAUVELIN begin their duel.)
CHAUVELIN
So! A hero! You think the world loves you?
PERCY
Not at all! But I think: Marguerite loves me.
CHAUVELIN
Marguerite. Yes. And such a good lover she is. Ah, but I forget- you wouldn't know about that- would you, Blakeney?
(For a moment CHAUVELIN gets the better of PERCY, and MARGUERITE grabs a sword, rushing at CHAUVELIN.)
MARGUERITE
You bastard!
(MARGUERITE and PERCY fight CHAUVELIN, until MARGUERITE is disarmed. PERCY and CHAUVELIN continue fighting.)
PERCY
Run, Marguerite!
(Finally, CHAUVELIN disarms PERCY and holds a sword to his throat - music out.)
MARGUERITE
No! Don't kill him! Percy!
(MARGUERITE runs to PERCY.)
I love you.
PERCY
I love you, oh God, I love you:
(They embrace.)
CHAUVELIN
Separate them! Pull them apart! He dies now!
PERCY
Yes, Chauvelin. Do it here and now. With your sword. Have the decency to let me die on my feet. By God, I will not lie down for your bloody guillotine!
CHAUVELIN
Your head will fall! Take him!
PERCY
No! Let me die like a man!
CHAUVELIN
To the guillotine! Now!
No. 22e "The Death of Percy" (orchestra)
(Six of the soldiers drag PERCY up to the guillotine. The executioner enters as four other soldiers restrain MARGUERITE and ARMAND.)
MARGUERITE
No! No Chauvelin! Don't kill him! I'll do anything! Percy, no!
ARMAND
Percy! No!
CHAUVELIN
Does the Scarlet Pimpernel:have any last words?
PERCY
Only this, Chauvelin:You may kill me:But someone else shall take my place. There will always be someone eager to sail into this fire:
(The EXECUTIONER forces Percy's head into the yoke.)
MARGUERITE
NO! No, you can't!
CHAUVELIN
Look at him- laid on his belly like any worm!
MARGUERITE
No-
CHAUVELIN
Citizens, I give you the Scarlet Pimpernel!
MARGUERITE
Nooooo-
(The blade falls. Percy's head drops into the basket. MARGUERITE collapses in tears - music out.)
CHAUVELIN
So:it is done: It is:done. Coupeau, Mercier- follow the division to Calais and end them back. Michel, you and Arenot, head to Paris directly. Inform Robespierre and the Committee of this execution. The rest of you:remain:
(The four soldiers guarding MARGUERITE and ARMAND exit.)
CHAUVELIN
So, Marguerite. Are you ready now:to come home?
PERCY (Off.)
Not with you, old boy. She's coming home with me!
No. 22f "Return of Percy" (orchestra) - The Scarlet Pimpernel Musical Script -
(PERCY leaps onto the guillotine.)
PERCY
Ah Marguerite- I'd never leave you on such short notice. Indeed, I shall never leave you again- not for one moment. As for you, Shovelynn, we're finished. Really- all that business about worms on their bellies- such poor taste!
(MARIE and the EXECUTIONER appear on the guillotine behind PERCY.)
CHAUVELIN
No, but:Not Possible- How in God's name:
PERCY
Well, Shovelynn. It's actually rather hard to kill us nincompoops.
CHAUVELIN
Saw it with my own eyes! The head and: No- it went down- The blade-
PERCY
Do try to articulate. The blade- yes- what about the blade?
CHAUVELIN
The blade fell! That's your head!
(MARIE takes PERCY'S head from the basket.)
MARIE
I believe he has a question: (Holding up the head.) :about the head.
(PERCY takes the head from MARIE.)
PERCY
Oh- the head! Yes. La, but you are breathtaking! Beastly good likeness, ain't it? All the work of my friend here, Mademoiselle Grosholtz.
(The EXECUTIONER removes his hood revealing that it is TUSSAUD.)
Beg pardon- they were married just last week. Now she is Madame Tussaud. And quite a clever artist, what? Think there may be a future in it for her.
CHAUVELIN (To the remaining six soldiers.)
Seize him: Seize him!
(None of the soldiers move.)
PERCY
No, no, Shovelynn. Like this. Seize him.
(The soldiers surround Chauvelin.)
You see? One has to say it with authority. That's what this world needs- commitment, conviction, courage. (Sings)
And that is why the Lord created men!
(Laughing, the soldiers now reveal themselves to be DEWHURST, OZZY, ELTON, FARLEIGH, HAL and BEN.)
PERCY
Tie him up, boys. So good of you, Shovelynn, to have sent your soldiers away and left me mine. Infinitely more convenient. Boat ready then, is it, Ben?
BEN
Yes, Percy.
PERCY
Well done! I believe we have now tied up all our loose ends- No, wait! I'm forgetting one thing. Shovelynn- any "last words" from you?
(PERCY stuffs a gag into CHAUVELIN's mouth.)
No? No open confessions? Ah, but they will find you, old boy, carrying those infamous Swiss papers, and:
(Slipping the ring onto Chauvelin's hand)
wearing the ring of the Scarlet Pimpernel. Outright confessions are so much more efficient, don't you think? Boys- deliver our hero to the town square, will you? And hang a lovely sign about his neck: "God help me, I am the Scarlet Pimpernel!"
(As most of the men carry CHAUVELIN out, laughing)
Ozzy! Dewhurst! Break out the dorries- we sail for England!
No. 23 "When I Look at You" (reprise) (Percy, Marguerite & ensemble)
BOUNDERS
For England! Home! Etc.
(MARGUERITE and PERCY are alone on the stage. They just stare at each other. Then slowly MARGUERITE walks to him, reaches up and touches his face. His lips graze her hand. They are both trembling.)
MARGUERITE
Percy:Take me home:
(Music continues as they move forward onto the boat.)
SCENE TEN
The English Channel - Aboard Percy's Schooner
OFFSTAGE VOICES
Aaaaahhh:
(Alone on Percy's schooner, PERCY stands behind MARGUERITE as he did on the footbridge.)
PERCY
Lady Blakeney: Your husband would not have left you: had he known about your past:
MARGUERITE
Does:my husband know:how much I love him?
PERCY
Marguerite- :Forgive me- can you:? All these months, unwilling to let you see into my heart-
(MARGUERITE turns to face PERCY.)
MARGUERITE
But I did see.
PERCY
Past the ruffles and lace?
MARGUERITE
I always recognized you, Percy. The measure of a man is on the inside.
PERCY
As is the beauty of a woman.
MARGUERITE
Percy- Is it time yet:to leave the bride and groom:alone?
"When I Look at You" (reprise)
PERCY
Let me look at you
There's so much to say
MARGUERITE
Oh, how wonderful
I look, and you don't turn away
PERCY
I can't take my eyes from you
BOTH
God help me now I want you even more
Than before
Now you come home to me
Never again to hide
MARGUERITE
Now when I lie awake at night
There will be someone by my side
PERCY
Now you know, but then I guess you always knew
BOTH
I am so lost in love
When I look at you
(As PERCY sweeps MARGUERITE down to kiss her, the curtain falls.)
End of Act II - The Scarlet Pimpernel Musical Script -
No. 24 "Into the Fire" (reprise) (Company)
CAST
Someone has to face the valley
rush in we have to rally and win, boys!
When the world is saying not to,
by God, you know you've got to march on, boys!
Never hold back your step for a moment!
Never doubt that your courage will grow!
Hold your head even higher
and into the fire we go!
PERCY
Into fire!
CAST
Onward . . . ho!
No. 25 "Exit Music" (orchestra)
THE END
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The Scarlet Pimpernel Musical Script
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