_] Be still!
THE BLACKBIRD
Neat, the little roof which must be gilded! Complete, the ladder for the
Motes!
CHANTECLER
[_In a spasm of pain._] Be still!
THE BLACKBIRD
And the access of modesty, a sweet little final touch! I kiss my hand to
you! Oh, he knows how--no mistake he knows--
CHANTECLER
[_Constraining himself, in a curt voice._] The Dawn? Certainly, I know
her. I think I may claim that honor!
THE BLACKBIRD
You precious fakir! Don't you consider you have succeeded?
CHANTECLER
In bringing on the day? Yes, certainly, I have succeeded admirably, in
this case.
THE BLACKBIRD
Oh, you do it so well! How awfully well he does it!
CHANTECLER
Making the light? Of course, I have done it so often! I am used to it.
The Sun obeys me.
THE BLACKBIRD
So, worthy Joshua! You feel the dawn coming, and then you crow! For
lightness of touch and richness of invention, give us a lyric poet!
CHANTECLER
[_Bursting forth._] Wretch!
THE BLACKBIRD
[_Surprised._] Are you keeping it up with me? [_Winking._] Oh, we know
how the thing is done!
CHANTECLER
You may know,--not I! I just open my heart and sing!
THE BLACKBIRD
[_Hopping about._] That's the idea!
CHANTECLER
Blackbird, laugh at everything besides, but not at that, if you love me!
THE BLACKBIRD
I love you!
CHANTECLER
[_Bitterly._] With half a heart!
THE BLACKBIRD
Can't say a word about his _Fiat Lux?_
CHANTECLER
Not that! Not that!
THE BLACKBIRD
Old man, it's not my fault that I'm no gull.
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