Fuente Ovejuna - Act Third
ACT THIRD
E STEBAN . Is the Town Board assembled?
B ARRILDO . Not a person can be seen.
E STEBAN . Bravely we face danger!
B ARRILDO . All the farms had warning.
E STEBAN . Frondoso is a prisoner in the tower and my daughter Laurencia in such plight that she is lost save for the direct interposition of heaven.
J UAN R OJO . Who complains aloud when silence is salvation? Peace, in God's name, peace!
E STEBAN . I will shout to the clouds till they re-echo my complaints while men marvel at my silence.
M ENGO . We came to attend the meeting.
E STEBAN . Farmers of this village, an old man whose grey beard is bathed in tears, inquires what rites, what obsequies we poor peasants, assembled here, shall prepare for our ravished homes, bereft of honor? And if life be honor, how shall we fare since there breathes not one among us whom this savage has not offended? Speak! Who but has been wounded deeply, poisoned in respect? Lament now, yes, cry out! Well? If all be ill, how then say well? Well, there is work for men to do.
J UAN R OJO . The direst that can be. Since by report it is published that Castile is subject now to a King, who shall presently make his entrance into Cordoba, let us despatch two Regidors to that city to cast themselves at his feet and demand remedy.
B ARRILDO . King Ferdinand is occupied with the overthrow of his enemies, who are not few, so that his commitments are warlike entirely. It were best to seek other succor.
R EGIDOR . If my voice have any weight, I declare the independence of the village.
J UAN R OJO . How can that be?
M ENGO . On my soul, my back tells me the Town Board will be informed as to that directly.
R EGIDOR . The tree of our patience has been cut down, the ship of our joy rides storm-tossed, emptied of its treasure. They have rept the daughter from one who is Alcalde of this town in which we dwell, breaking his staff over his aged head. Could a slave be scorned more basely?
J UAN R OJO . What would you have the people do?
R EGIDOR . Die or rain death on tyrants! We are many while they are few.
B ARRILDO . Lift our hands against our Lord and Master?
E STEBAN . Only the King is our master, save for God, never these devouring beasts. If God be with us, what have we to fear?
M ENGO . Gentlemen, I advise caution in the beginning and ever after. Although I represent only the very simplest laborers, who bear the most, believe me we find the bearing most unpleasant.
J UAN R OJO . If our wrongs are so great, we lose nothing with our lives. An end, then! Our homes and vineyards burn. Vengeance on the tyrants!
L AURENCIA . Open, for I have need of the support of men! Deeds, or I cry out to heaven! Do you know me?
E STEBAN . Martyr of God, my daughter?
J UAN R OJO . This is Laurencia.
L AURENCIA . Yes, and so changed that, gazing, you doubt still!
E STEBAN . My daughter!
L AURENCIA . No, no more! Not yours.
E STEBAN . Why, light of my eyes, why, pride of the valley?
L AURENCIA . Ask not, reckon not,
Here be it known
Tyrants reign o'er us,
We are ruled by traitors,
Justice is there none.
I was not Frondoso's,
Yours to avenge me,
Father, till the night
I was yours
Though he was my husband,
You the defender
Guarding the bride.
As well might the noble pay for the jewel lost in the merchant's hand!
I was lost to Fernan Gomez,
Haled to his keep,
Abandoned to wolves.
A dagger at my breast
Pointed his threats,
His flatteries, insults, lies,
To overcome my chastity
Before his fierce desires.
My face is bruised and bloody in this court of honest men. Some of you are fathers, some have daughters. Do your hearts sink within you, supine and cowardly crew? You are sheep, sheep! Oh, well-named, Village of Fuente Ovejuna, the Sheep Well! Sheep, sheep, sheep! Give me iron, for senseless stones can wield none, nor images, nor pillars — jasper though they be — nor dumb living things that lack the tiger's heart that follows him who steals its young, rending the hunter limb from limb upon the very margin of the raging sea, seeking the pity of the angry waves.
But you are rabbits, farmers,
Infidels in Spain,
Your wives strut before you
With the cock upon their train!
Tuck your knitting in your belts,
Strip off your manly swords,
For, God living, I swear
That your women dare
Pluck these fearsome despots,
Beard the traitors there!
No spinning for our girls;
Heave stones and do not blench.
Can you smile, men?
Will you fight?
Caps we'll set upon you,
The shelter of a skirt,
Be heirs, boys, to our ribbons,
The gift of the maidenry,
For now the Commander will hang Frondoso from a merlon of the tower, without let or trial, as presently he will string you all, you race of half-men, for the women will leave this village, nor one remain behind! To-day the age of amazons returns, we lift our arms and strike against this villainy, and the crash of our blows shall amaze the world!
E STEBAN . Daughter, I am no man to bear names calmly, opprobrious and vile. I will go and beard this despot, though the united spheres revolve against me.
J UAN R OJO . So will I, for all his pride and knavery.
R EGIDOR . Let him be surrounded and cut off.
B ARRILDO . Hang a cloth from a pike as our banner and cry " Death to Monsters! "
J UAN R OJO . What course shall we choose?
M ENGO . To be at them, of course. Raise an uproar and with it the village, for every man will take an oath and be with you that to the last traitor the oppressors shall die.
E STEBAN . Seize swords and spears, cross-bows, pikes and clubs.
M ENGO . Long live the King and Queen!
All . Live our lords and masters!
M ENGO . Death to cruel tyrants!
All . To cruel tyrants, death!
L AURENCIA . March on, and heaven march before you!
Hello! Ho, women of this town! Draw near! Draw near for the salvation of your honor!
P ASCUALA . Who calls us? Where are the men to-day?
L AURENCIA . Behold them down that street, marching to murder Fernan Gomez. Yes, old men, young men, and troops of eager boys, like furies run to meet him! Shall they share all the glory of this mighty day, when we women can boast wrongs that match and out-strip theirs?
J ACINTA . What can we do?
L AURENCIA . Fall in behind me and we will do a deed that shall re-echo round the sphere! Jacinta, you have been most deeply wronged; lead forth a squadron of our girls.
J ACINTA . You have borne no less.
L AURENCIA . Oh, Pascuala, for a flag!
P ASCUALA . Tie a cloth upon this lance to flourish. We shall have our banner.
L AURENCIA . Stay not even for that, for now it comes to me: — Every woman her headdress! Wave, banners, wave!
P ASCUALA . Name a captain and march!
L AURENCIA . We need no captain.
P ASCUALA . No? Wave, banners!
L AURENCIA . When my courage is up I laugh at the Cid and pale Rodomonte!
Commander . And by the cord that dangles from his hands
Let him be hung until cut down by death.
F RONDOSO . My Lord, you shame your worth.
Commander . String him up on the battlements without further word.
F RONDOSO . I had no thought, my Lord, against your life.
F LORES . What is this noise outside?
Commander . I hear voices.
F LORES . Do they threaten your justice, sire?
O RTUÑO . They are breaking down the gates.
Commander . The gate of my castle, the seat of the Commandery?
F LORES . The people fill the court.
J UAN R OJO . Within . Push, smash, pull down, burn, destroy!
O RTUÑO . I like not their numbers.
Commander . Shall these hinds come against me?
F LORES . Such passing fury sweeps them that all the outer doors are already beaten in!
Commander . Undo this bumpkin. Frondoso, speak to this Alcalde. Warn him of his peril.
F RONDOSO . Sire, what they do, remember is done in love.
M ENGO . Within . Hail, Ferdinand and Isabella, and let the last traitor die!
F LORES . Senor, in God's name you had best conceal your person.
Commander . If they persevere we can hold this room, for the doors are strong. They will turn back as quickly as they came.
F LORES . When the people rise and screw their courage to the point, they never stop short of rapine and blood.
Commander . Behind this grating as a barricade we can defend ourselves right stoutly.
F RONDOSO . Within . Free Fuente Ovejuna!
Commander . What a leader for these swine! I will out and fall upon them.
F LORES . I marvel at your courage.
E STEBAN . Entering . Now we meet the tyrant and his minions face to face! Death to the traitor! All for Fuente Ovejuna!
Commander . Hold, my people! Stay!
All . Wrongs hold not. Vengeance knows no stay!
Commander . Tell your wrongs, and on the honor of a knight I'll requite them, every one.
All . Fuente Ovejuna! Long live Ferdinand, our King! Death to traitors and unbelievers!
Commander . Will you not hear me? I lift my voice. I am your lord and master.
All . No, our lords and masters are the Catholic Kings!
Commander . Stay a little.
All . All for Fuente Ovejuna! Die, Fernan Gomez!
L AURENCIA . Stop here and challenge fortune, no women but an army.
P ASCUALA . Any that shows herself a woman by mercy, shall swallow the enemy's blood!
J ACINTA . We shall spit his body on our pikes.
P ASCUALA . As one we stand behind you.
E STEBAN . Die, traitor though Commander!
Commander . I die! O God, have pity in Thy clemency!
B ARRILDO . Flores next!
M ENGO . Have at him, for he landed on me with a thousand whacks.
F RONDOSO . I'll draw his soul out like a tooth!
L AURENCIA . They need us there!
P ASCUALA . Let them go on! We guard the door.
B ARRILDO . No prayers, no mercy, vermin!
L AURENCIA . Pascuala, I go with my sword drawn, not sheathed!
B ARRILDO . Down with Ortuno!
F RONDOSO . Slash him across the cheek.
F LORES . Pity, Mengo! I was not to blame.
M ENGO . To be a pimp was bad enough, but why the devil lay on me?
P ASCUALA . Mengo, give this man to the women. Stay! Stay!
M ENGO . 'Fore God I will! And no punishment could be worse.
P ASCUALA . Be well avenged!
M ENGO . Believe me!
J ACINTA . Run him through!
F LORES . What? Pity, women!
J ACINTA . His courage well becomes him.
P ASCUALA . So he has tears?
J ACINTA . Kill him, viper of the vile!
P ASCUALA . Down, wretch, and die!
F LORES . Pity, women, pity!
O RTUÑO . I am not the man, I was not guilty!
L AURENCIA . In, women, and dye your conquering swords in traitor's blood. Prove all your courage!
P ASCUALA . Die dealing death!
All . All for Fuente Ovejuna! Hail, King Ferdinand!
M ANRIQUE . Convenient haste hard following on command,
The victory was gained at little cost,
With show of slight resistance. Eagerly
We crave a fresh assault to try our prowess.
The Count of Cabra consolidates the front
And fends a counter-stroke, keeping the field.
King . The troops are well disposed. By our decree
He shall continue in his tents, the line
Reforming, holding the pass. An evil wind
Sweeps up from Portugal, where armed Alfonso
Levies further powers. Cabra shall remain
The head and forefront of our valor here,
Watchful as diligent, that men may see
The danger fly before the sentinel
And peace return with plenty to the land.
F LORES . King Ferdinand the Catholic,
By right acclaim in Castile crowned,
In token of thy majesty
Oh hear the foulest treachery
Done yet by man from where the sun
Springs in the wakening east
To the lands of westering night!
King . If there be warrant, speak.
F LORES . O thou great King, my wounds speak,
Admitting no delay
To close my story
With my life.
I come from Fuente Ovejuna,
Where the wretched hinds of the village
Have basely murdered their liege lord
In one general mutiny.
Perfidious folk,
They slew Fernan Gomez
As vassals moving upon slight cause,
Fixing upon him
The name of Tyrant,
Thenceforward their excuse.
They broke down his doors,
Closing their ears
To his free knightly pledge
To do each and all
Full justice,
Steeling their hearts against him,
And with unseemly rage
Tearing the cross from his breast,
Inflicting cruel wounds.
After which they cast him from a high window to the ground where he was caught on pikes and sword-points by the women. They bore him in dead and the most revengeful pulled at his beard and hair, defacing every feature, for their fury waxed to such extremity that they sliced off his ears neatly. They beat down his scutcheon with staves and boast outright that they will set the royal arms above the portal where their lord's should be, full in the square of the village. They sacked the keep as a fallen foe's, and, exulting, raped his goods and properties. These things I saw, hidden — unhappy was my lot! — and so remained till nightfall, escaping to lay my prayer before you. Justice, Sire, that swift penalty may fall upon these offending churls! Bloodshed this day cries out to God and challenges your rigor!
King . No violence, no cruelty so dire
Escapes the inquest of our royal eye.
I marvel greatly at this villainy,
Wherefore to-day a judge shall be despatched
To verify the tale, and punishment
Mete out unto the guilty as example.
A captain, too, shall march in his escort
Securing the sentence, for mutiny
The bolder grown, bolder the chastisement.
Look to his wounds.
M USICIANS . Hail, Ferdinand!
Isabella, hail!
Death, tyrant band!
B ARRILDO . Let's hear from Frondoso.
F RONDOSO . I've made a song and, if it's wrong,
You correct it as it goes along.
Hail, Isabella!
'Tis plain to be seen
Two can make one,
A King and a Queen.
When they die —
This to you, Saint Michael —
Just lift them both up to the sky.
Sweep the land clean,
O King and Queen!
L AURENCIA . See what you can do, Barrildo.
B ARRILDO . Silence, then, while I get a rhyme in my head.
P ASCUALA . If you keep your head it will be twice as good.
B ARRILDO . Hail to the King and Queen ,
For they are very famous!
They have won
And so they will not blame us.
May they always win,
Conquer giants
And a dwarf or two.
Down with tyrants!
And now I'm through.
M USICIANS . Hail, Ferdinand!
Isabella, hail!
Death, tyrant band!
L AURENCIA . Mengo next!
F RONDOSO . Now Mengo!
M ENGO . I'm a poet that is one.
P ASCUALA . You're the back of the belly.
M ENGO . Oh, one Sunday morning
The rascal beat me
From behind!
'Twas no way to treat me,
Most unkind.
How it hurt to seat me!
Glory to the Christian Kings! —
The wife must mind.
M USICIANS . Hail, Ferdinand!
Isabella, hail!
Death, tyrant band!
E STEBAN . You can take the head off the spear now.
M ENGO . He might have been hung for his looks. Phew!
R EGIDOR . Here come the arms!
E STEBAN . Let all the people see.
J UAN R OJO . Where shall the arms be set?
R EGIDOR . Before the town-hall, here, above the door.
E STEBAN . Noble escutcheon, hail!
B ARRILDO . That is a coat of arms!
F RONDOSO . I see the light to-day, for the sun begins to shine.
E STEBAN . Hail Castile and hail Leon!
Hail the bars of Aragon!
May tyrants die!
Hear, Fuente Ovejuna,
Follow counsel of the wise,
Nor hurt shall lie;
King and Queen must needs inquire
Right and wrong as they transpire,
Passing near-by.
Loyalty our hearts inspire.
F RONDOSO . That's a problem too. What shall our story be?
E STEBAN . Let us all agree to die, if it must be, crying Fuente Ovejuna , and may no word of this affair pass beyond that ever.
F RONDOSO . Besides it is the truth, for what was done, Fuente Ovejuna did it, every man and woman.
E STEBAN . Then that shall be our answer?
All . Yes!
E STEBAN . Now I shall be the Judge and rehearse us all in what we best had do. Mengo, put you to the torture first.
M ENGO . Am I the only candidate?
E STEBAN . This is but talk, lad.
M ENGO . All the same let's get through with it, and quickly.
E STEBAN . Who killed the Commander?
M ENGO . Fuente Ovejuna killed him.
E STEBAN . I'll put you to the torture.
M ENGO . You will on your life, sir.
E STEBAN . Confess, conscienceless hind!
M ENGO . I do. What of it?
E STEBAN . Who killed the Commander?
M ENGO . Fuente Ovejuna.
E STEBAN . Rack him again! Turn the wheel once more.
M ENGO . You oblige me.
E STEBAN . Reduce him to carrion and let him go.
C UADRADO . What is this meeting?
F RONDOSO . Why so grave, Cuadrado?
C UADRADO . The King's Judge is here.
E STEBAN . All to your homes, and quickly!
C UADRADO . A Captain comes with him also.
E STEBAN . Let the devil appear! You know what you are to say?
C UADRADO . They are going through the village prepared to take a deposition of every soul.
E STEBAN . Have no fear. — Mengo, who killed the Commander?
M ENGO . Fuente Ovejuna. Ask me who!
Master . Such news cannot be! To end like this? I have a mind to run you through for your insolence.
S OLDIER . I was sent, Master, without malice.
Master . Can a mad handful of louts be moved to such fury? I will take five hundred men forthwith and burn the village, leaving no memory of those paths that were so basely trod.
S OLDIER . Master, be not so moved, for they have committed themselves to the King, whose power is not to be gainsaid lightly.
Master . How can they commit themselves to the King when they are vassals of Calatrava?
S OLDIER . That, Master, you will discuss with the King.
Master . No, for the land is his and all that it contains. I do obeisance to the Crown, and if they have submitted to the King I will subdue my rage and betake me to his presence as to a father's. My fault is grievous, in whose palliation I plead my untried years. I hang my head at this mischance of honor, but again to stumble were clear dishonor, yes, and certain death.
L AURENCIA . Loving, that the beloved should suffer-pain
A grinding sorrow fastens on the heart,
Fearing the loved must bear alone the smart
Care weighs the spirit down and hope lies slain.
The firm assurance, watchful to attain,
Doubting falters, and hastens to depart,
Nor is it folly in the brave to start
And tremble, promised boon transformed to bane.
I love my husband dearly. Now I see
Harpies of Vengeance rise before my sight
Unshapely, and my hope breathes a faint breath.
Only his good I seek. Oh, set him free
Ever with me to tremble in the night,
Or take him from me, so you take me, death!
F RONDOSO . Linger not, Laurencia.
L AURENCIA . My dear husband, fly danger, for I am its very heart.
F RONDOSO . Are you one to reject the homage of a lover?
L AURENCIA . My love, I fear for you, and you are my constant care.
F RONDOSO . Laurencia, I am so happy that surely this moment heaven smiles upon us both.
L AURENCIA . You see what has happened to the others, and how this judge proceeds firmly, with all severity? Save yourself before it is too late. Fly and avoid the danger!
F RONDOSO . What do you expect in such an hour? Shall I disappear and leave the peril to others, besides absenting myself from your sight? No, counsel me courage, for in danger a man betrays his blood, which is as it should be, come what may.
I hear cries. They have put a man to the torture unless my ears deceive me. Listen and be still!
Judge . Old man, I seek only the truth. Speak!
F RONDOSO . An old man tortured?
L AURENCIA . What barbarity!
E STEBAN . Ease me a little.
Judge . Ease him. Who killed Fernando?
E STEBAN . Fuente Ovejuna.
L AURENCIA . Good, father! Glory and praise!
F RONDOSO . Praise God he had the strength!
Judge . Take that boy there. Speak, you pup, for you know! Who was it? He says nothing. Put on the pressure there.
B OY . Judge, Fuente Ovejuna.
Judge . Now by the King, carls, I'll hang you to the last man! Who killed the Commander?
F RONDOSO . They torture the child and he replies like this?
L AURENCIA . There is courage in the village.
F RONDOSO . Courage and heart.
Judge . Put that woman in the chair. Give her a turn for her good.
L AURENCIA . I can't endure it.
Judge . Peasants, be obstinate and this instrument brings death. So prepare! Who killed the Commander?
P ASCUALA . Judge, Fuente Ovejuna.
Judge . Have no mercy.
F RONDOSO . I cannot think, my mind is blank!
L AURENCIA . Frondoso, Pascuala will not tell them.
F RONDOSO . The very children hold their peace!
Judge . They thrive upon it. — More! More!
P ASCUALA . Oh, God in heaven!
Judge . Again, and answer me! Is she deaf?
P ASCUALA . I say Fuente Ovejuna.
Judge . Seize that plump lad, half undressed already.
L AURENCIA . It must be Mengo! Poor Mengo!
F RONDOSO . He can never hold out.
M ENGO . Oh, oh, oh!
Judge . Let him have it.
M ENGO . Oh!
Judge . Prod his memory.
M ENGO . Oh, oh!
Judge . Who slew the Commander, slave?
M ENGO . Oh, oh! I can't get it out! I'll tell you — —
Judge . Loosen that hand.
F RONDOSO . We are lost!
Judge . Let him have it on the back!
M ENGO . No, for I'll give up everything!
Judge . Who killed him?
M ENGO . Judge, Fuente Ovejuna.
Judge . Have these rogues no nerves that they can laugh at pain? The most likely, too, lie by instinct. I will no more to-day. To the street!
F RONDOSO . Now God bless Mengo! I was afraid, transfixed, but that lad is a cure for fear.
B ARRILDO . Good, Mengo, good!
R EGIDOR . You have delivered us.
B ARRILDO . Mengo, bravo!
F RONDOSO . We cheer you.
M ENGO . Oh, oh! Not much.
B ARRILDO . Drink, my friend, and eat. Come, come!
M ENGO . Oh, oh! What have you got?
B ARRILDO . Sweet lemon peel.
M ENGO . Oh, oh!
F RONDOSO . Drink, drink. Take this.
B ARRILDO . He does, too.
F RONDOSO . He takes it well. Down it goes.
L AURENCIA . Give him another bite.
M ENGO . Oh, oh!
B ARRILDO . Drink this for me.
L AURENCIA . Swallowed without a smile.
F RONDOSO . A sound answer deserves a round drink.
R EGIDOR . Another, son?
M ENGO . Oh, oh! Yes, yes!
F RONDOSO . Drink, for you deserve it.
L AURENCIA . He collects for every pang.
F RONDOSO . Throw a coat around him or he will freeze.
B ARRILDO . Have you had enough?
M ENGO . No, three more. Oh, oh!
F RONDOSO . He is asking for the wine.
B ARRILDO . Yes, let him drink as much as he likes for one good turn begets another. What's the matter now?
M ENGO . It leaves a taste in my mouth. Oh, I'm catching cold!
F RONDOSO . Another drink will help. Who killed the Commander?
M ENGO . Fuente Ovejuna.
F RONDOSO . He has earned more than they give him. Ah, love, as you are mine confess to me. Who killed the Commander?
L AURENCIA . Love, Fuente Ovejuna.
F RONDOSO . Who?
L AURENCIA . Don't you think you can torture me. Fuente Ovejuna.
F RONDOSO . It did? How did I get you, then?
L AURENCIA . Love, I got you.
I SABELLA . Meeting, Sire, we crown our fortunes gladly.
King . In union lies a more enduring glory.
Passing to Portugal the direct path
Leads me to you.
I SABELLA . To my heart, Majesty,
Turning away from conquest gratefully.
King . What news of the war in Castile?
I SABELLA . Peace succeeds and the land lies ready, expecting the plough.
King . Now my eyes light upon a living miracle, the consummation of a queenly peace.
M ANRIQUE . The Master of Calatrava begs audience, having journeyed to your presence from his seat.
I SABELLA . I have a mind to greet this gentleman.
M ANRIQUE . Majesty, his years are few, yet they have proved his valor great.
Master . Rodrigo Tellez Giron,
Master of Calatrava,
Humbly kneels repentant
And pardon begs, foredone.
False counsels proffered one
By one seduced my heart
To deeds disloyal and rash;
Now end all as begun
When a too ready ear
In Fernando placed its trust,
That false and unjust knight.
Pardon, Sire, past fear!
In mercy hold me dear,
Oh grant me royal favor,
To pay in loyalty
Forever rendered here!
Upon Granada's plain
When sounds the wild alarm
My valor shall wreak harm,
My sword-strokes fall amain
And through that fell champaign
Dart wounds to the enemy
Till the cross of victory
Red o'er the merlons reign.
Five hundred men in steel
I shall lead to smite your foes
Upon my life and oath, or close
My eyes in death! Here I kneel,
Never to displease you more.
King . Rise, Master. Having tendered your allegiance you shall be received royally.
Master . Every word is balm.
I SABELLA . Few speak as bravely as they fight.
Master . Esther has returned to earth to wed a Christian Xerxes.
M ANRIQUE . Sire, the Judge that was despatched to Fuente Ovejuna has arrived with the process to report to Your Majesty.
King . To the Master . These aggressors, being of the Commandery, fall within your province.
Master . Sire, I yield to you, else were bloody vengeance taken for the death of the Commander.
King . To the Q UEEN . Then the decision rests with me?
I SABELLA . I grant it willingly though the right were mine of God.
Judge . I journeyed to Fuente Ovejuna in prosecution of your command probing all with due diligence and care. Having verified the crime, no writ or indictment has issued, inasmuch as with one accord and most singular fortitude, to all my questions as to the murderer the answer was always Fuente Ovejuna. Three hundred were put to torture, to the degree that forced them each to speak, without profit, Sire, of one word other than I have told you. Boys of ten were delivered to the rack, without yielding so much as a whisper, nor could they be moved by flattery or gold. Wherefore, this is my report, the evidence having failed: either you must pardon the village or wipe it out to the last man. They have followed me to your feet that in your own person you may pronounce judgment.
King . If they seek our presence, let them appear before us, every one.
L AURENCIA . Are those the King and Queen?
F RONDOSO . The power and majesty of Castile!
L AURENCIA . How beautiful, how wonderful! Saint Antonio, bless them both!
I SABELLA . Are these the people of the village?
E STEBAN . Majesty, Fuente Ovejuna humbly kneels at your feet in allegiance. The mad tyranny and fierce cruelty of the dead Commander, raining insults through the farms, themselves provoked his death. He ravished our homes, forced our daughters, and knew no heart nor mercy.
F RONDOSO . This simple girl, O Queen, who is mine by rite of heaven, and has brought me all happiness, which surely must be matchless, on my wedding-night, as if it had been his very own, he bore off to his keep, and but that she is secure in honor, basely that night he had deflowered her.
M ENGO . I know something as to that, with your permision, Queen, because you must be anxious to hear from me, seeing the bloody tanning that I got. I stood up for a girl in the village when the Commander went along the way to her undoing, the scurvy Nero, and then he took it out on me, and there never was a more thorough job at bottom. Three men paid it their attention, good pay all three, since when, if you ask the explanation, I paid more for balm and ointment, with the powder and the myrtle I applied, than I could sell my sheep-cot for.
E STEBAN . Sire, we yield ourselves to you. You are our King, and in witness of submission we have placed your arms above our doors. Have mercy, Sire, for our excuse is our extremity, which deserves your clemency.
King . As no indictment is set down, although the fault be grave, it shall be pardoned. Since you yield yourselves to me, I further take the town under my protection, for in the Crown henceforth its charter shall abide, until such time as God in His mercy shall vouchsafe you a new Commander.
F RONDOSO . When His Majesty speaks
His voice we obey.
" Fuente Ovejuna " ends.
Friends, approve the play.
E STEBAN . Is the Town Board assembled?
B ARRILDO . Not a person can be seen.
E STEBAN . Bravely we face danger!
B ARRILDO . All the farms had warning.
E STEBAN . Frondoso is a prisoner in the tower and my daughter Laurencia in such plight that she is lost save for the direct interposition of heaven.
J UAN R OJO . Who complains aloud when silence is salvation? Peace, in God's name, peace!
E STEBAN . I will shout to the clouds till they re-echo my complaints while men marvel at my silence.
M ENGO . We came to attend the meeting.
E STEBAN . Farmers of this village, an old man whose grey beard is bathed in tears, inquires what rites, what obsequies we poor peasants, assembled here, shall prepare for our ravished homes, bereft of honor? And if life be honor, how shall we fare since there breathes not one among us whom this savage has not offended? Speak! Who but has been wounded deeply, poisoned in respect? Lament now, yes, cry out! Well? If all be ill, how then say well? Well, there is work for men to do.
J UAN R OJO . The direst that can be. Since by report it is published that Castile is subject now to a King, who shall presently make his entrance into Cordoba, let us despatch two Regidors to that city to cast themselves at his feet and demand remedy.
B ARRILDO . King Ferdinand is occupied with the overthrow of his enemies, who are not few, so that his commitments are warlike entirely. It were best to seek other succor.
R EGIDOR . If my voice have any weight, I declare the independence of the village.
J UAN R OJO . How can that be?
M ENGO . On my soul, my back tells me the Town Board will be informed as to that directly.
R EGIDOR . The tree of our patience has been cut down, the ship of our joy rides storm-tossed, emptied of its treasure. They have rept the daughter from one who is Alcalde of this town in which we dwell, breaking his staff over his aged head. Could a slave be scorned more basely?
J UAN R OJO . What would you have the people do?
R EGIDOR . Die or rain death on tyrants! We are many while they are few.
B ARRILDO . Lift our hands against our Lord and Master?
E STEBAN . Only the King is our master, save for God, never these devouring beasts. If God be with us, what have we to fear?
M ENGO . Gentlemen, I advise caution in the beginning and ever after. Although I represent only the very simplest laborers, who bear the most, believe me we find the bearing most unpleasant.
J UAN R OJO . If our wrongs are so great, we lose nothing with our lives. An end, then! Our homes and vineyards burn. Vengeance on the tyrants!
L AURENCIA . Open, for I have need of the support of men! Deeds, or I cry out to heaven! Do you know me?
E STEBAN . Martyr of God, my daughter?
J UAN R OJO . This is Laurencia.
L AURENCIA . Yes, and so changed that, gazing, you doubt still!
E STEBAN . My daughter!
L AURENCIA . No, no more! Not yours.
E STEBAN . Why, light of my eyes, why, pride of the valley?
L AURENCIA . Ask not, reckon not,
Here be it known
Tyrants reign o'er us,
We are ruled by traitors,
Justice is there none.
I was not Frondoso's,
Yours to avenge me,
Father, till the night
I was yours
Though he was my husband,
You the defender
Guarding the bride.
As well might the noble pay for the jewel lost in the merchant's hand!
I was lost to Fernan Gomez,
Haled to his keep,
Abandoned to wolves.
A dagger at my breast
Pointed his threats,
His flatteries, insults, lies,
To overcome my chastity
Before his fierce desires.
My face is bruised and bloody in this court of honest men. Some of you are fathers, some have daughters. Do your hearts sink within you, supine and cowardly crew? You are sheep, sheep! Oh, well-named, Village of Fuente Ovejuna, the Sheep Well! Sheep, sheep, sheep! Give me iron, for senseless stones can wield none, nor images, nor pillars — jasper though they be — nor dumb living things that lack the tiger's heart that follows him who steals its young, rending the hunter limb from limb upon the very margin of the raging sea, seeking the pity of the angry waves.
But you are rabbits, farmers,
Infidels in Spain,
Your wives strut before you
With the cock upon their train!
Tuck your knitting in your belts,
Strip off your manly swords,
For, God living, I swear
That your women dare
Pluck these fearsome despots,
Beard the traitors there!
No spinning for our girls;
Heave stones and do not blench.
Can you smile, men?
Will you fight?
Caps we'll set upon you,
The shelter of a skirt,
Be heirs, boys, to our ribbons,
The gift of the maidenry,
For now the Commander will hang Frondoso from a merlon of the tower, without let or trial, as presently he will string you all, you race of half-men, for the women will leave this village, nor one remain behind! To-day the age of amazons returns, we lift our arms and strike against this villainy, and the crash of our blows shall amaze the world!
E STEBAN . Daughter, I am no man to bear names calmly, opprobrious and vile. I will go and beard this despot, though the united spheres revolve against me.
J UAN R OJO . So will I, for all his pride and knavery.
R EGIDOR . Let him be surrounded and cut off.
B ARRILDO . Hang a cloth from a pike as our banner and cry " Death to Monsters! "
J UAN R OJO . What course shall we choose?
M ENGO . To be at them, of course. Raise an uproar and with it the village, for every man will take an oath and be with you that to the last traitor the oppressors shall die.
E STEBAN . Seize swords and spears, cross-bows, pikes and clubs.
M ENGO . Long live the King and Queen!
All . Live our lords and masters!
M ENGO . Death to cruel tyrants!
All . To cruel tyrants, death!
L AURENCIA . March on, and heaven march before you!
Hello! Ho, women of this town! Draw near! Draw near for the salvation of your honor!
P ASCUALA . Who calls us? Where are the men to-day?
L AURENCIA . Behold them down that street, marching to murder Fernan Gomez. Yes, old men, young men, and troops of eager boys, like furies run to meet him! Shall they share all the glory of this mighty day, when we women can boast wrongs that match and out-strip theirs?
J ACINTA . What can we do?
L AURENCIA . Fall in behind me and we will do a deed that shall re-echo round the sphere! Jacinta, you have been most deeply wronged; lead forth a squadron of our girls.
J ACINTA . You have borne no less.
L AURENCIA . Oh, Pascuala, for a flag!
P ASCUALA . Tie a cloth upon this lance to flourish. We shall have our banner.
L AURENCIA . Stay not even for that, for now it comes to me: — Every woman her headdress! Wave, banners, wave!
P ASCUALA . Name a captain and march!
L AURENCIA . We need no captain.
P ASCUALA . No? Wave, banners!
L AURENCIA . When my courage is up I laugh at the Cid and pale Rodomonte!
Commander . And by the cord that dangles from his hands
Let him be hung until cut down by death.
F RONDOSO . My Lord, you shame your worth.
Commander . String him up on the battlements without further word.
F RONDOSO . I had no thought, my Lord, against your life.
F LORES . What is this noise outside?
Commander . I hear voices.
F LORES . Do they threaten your justice, sire?
O RTUÑO . They are breaking down the gates.
Commander . The gate of my castle, the seat of the Commandery?
F LORES . The people fill the court.
J UAN R OJO . Within . Push, smash, pull down, burn, destroy!
O RTUÑO . I like not their numbers.
Commander . Shall these hinds come against me?
F LORES . Such passing fury sweeps them that all the outer doors are already beaten in!
Commander . Undo this bumpkin. Frondoso, speak to this Alcalde. Warn him of his peril.
F RONDOSO . Sire, what they do, remember is done in love.
M ENGO . Within . Hail, Ferdinand and Isabella, and let the last traitor die!
F LORES . Senor, in God's name you had best conceal your person.
Commander . If they persevere we can hold this room, for the doors are strong. They will turn back as quickly as they came.
F LORES . When the people rise and screw their courage to the point, they never stop short of rapine and blood.
Commander . Behind this grating as a barricade we can defend ourselves right stoutly.
F RONDOSO . Within . Free Fuente Ovejuna!
Commander . What a leader for these swine! I will out and fall upon them.
F LORES . I marvel at your courage.
E STEBAN . Entering . Now we meet the tyrant and his minions face to face! Death to the traitor! All for Fuente Ovejuna!
Commander . Hold, my people! Stay!
All . Wrongs hold not. Vengeance knows no stay!
Commander . Tell your wrongs, and on the honor of a knight I'll requite them, every one.
All . Fuente Ovejuna! Long live Ferdinand, our King! Death to traitors and unbelievers!
Commander . Will you not hear me? I lift my voice. I am your lord and master.
All . No, our lords and masters are the Catholic Kings!
Commander . Stay a little.
All . All for Fuente Ovejuna! Die, Fernan Gomez!
L AURENCIA . Stop here and challenge fortune, no women but an army.
P ASCUALA . Any that shows herself a woman by mercy, shall swallow the enemy's blood!
J ACINTA . We shall spit his body on our pikes.
P ASCUALA . As one we stand behind you.
E STEBAN . Die, traitor though Commander!
Commander . I die! O God, have pity in Thy clemency!
B ARRILDO . Flores next!
M ENGO . Have at him, for he landed on me with a thousand whacks.
F RONDOSO . I'll draw his soul out like a tooth!
L AURENCIA . They need us there!
P ASCUALA . Let them go on! We guard the door.
B ARRILDO . No prayers, no mercy, vermin!
L AURENCIA . Pascuala, I go with my sword drawn, not sheathed!
B ARRILDO . Down with Ortuno!
F RONDOSO . Slash him across the cheek.
F LORES . Pity, Mengo! I was not to blame.
M ENGO . To be a pimp was bad enough, but why the devil lay on me?
P ASCUALA . Mengo, give this man to the women. Stay! Stay!
M ENGO . 'Fore God I will! And no punishment could be worse.
P ASCUALA . Be well avenged!
M ENGO . Believe me!
J ACINTA . Run him through!
F LORES . What? Pity, women!
J ACINTA . His courage well becomes him.
P ASCUALA . So he has tears?
J ACINTA . Kill him, viper of the vile!
P ASCUALA . Down, wretch, and die!
F LORES . Pity, women, pity!
O RTUÑO . I am not the man, I was not guilty!
L AURENCIA . In, women, and dye your conquering swords in traitor's blood. Prove all your courage!
P ASCUALA . Die dealing death!
All . All for Fuente Ovejuna! Hail, King Ferdinand!
M ANRIQUE . Convenient haste hard following on command,
The victory was gained at little cost,
With show of slight resistance. Eagerly
We crave a fresh assault to try our prowess.
The Count of Cabra consolidates the front
And fends a counter-stroke, keeping the field.
King . The troops are well disposed. By our decree
He shall continue in his tents, the line
Reforming, holding the pass. An evil wind
Sweeps up from Portugal, where armed Alfonso
Levies further powers. Cabra shall remain
The head and forefront of our valor here,
Watchful as diligent, that men may see
The danger fly before the sentinel
And peace return with plenty to the land.
F LORES . King Ferdinand the Catholic,
By right acclaim in Castile crowned,
In token of thy majesty
Oh hear the foulest treachery
Done yet by man from where the sun
Springs in the wakening east
To the lands of westering night!
King . If there be warrant, speak.
F LORES . O thou great King, my wounds speak,
Admitting no delay
To close my story
With my life.
I come from Fuente Ovejuna,
Where the wretched hinds of the village
Have basely murdered their liege lord
In one general mutiny.
Perfidious folk,
They slew Fernan Gomez
As vassals moving upon slight cause,
Fixing upon him
The name of Tyrant,
Thenceforward their excuse.
They broke down his doors,
Closing their ears
To his free knightly pledge
To do each and all
Full justice,
Steeling their hearts against him,
And with unseemly rage
Tearing the cross from his breast,
Inflicting cruel wounds.
After which they cast him from a high window to the ground where he was caught on pikes and sword-points by the women. They bore him in dead and the most revengeful pulled at his beard and hair, defacing every feature, for their fury waxed to such extremity that they sliced off his ears neatly. They beat down his scutcheon with staves and boast outright that they will set the royal arms above the portal where their lord's should be, full in the square of the village. They sacked the keep as a fallen foe's, and, exulting, raped his goods and properties. These things I saw, hidden — unhappy was my lot! — and so remained till nightfall, escaping to lay my prayer before you. Justice, Sire, that swift penalty may fall upon these offending churls! Bloodshed this day cries out to God and challenges your rigor!
King . No violence, no cruelty so dire
Escapes the inquest of our royal eye.
I marvel greatly at this villainy,
Wherefore to-day a judge shall be despatched
To verify the tale, and punishment
Mete out unto the guilty as example.
A captain, too, shall march in his escort
Securing the sentence, for mutiny
The bolder grown, bolder the chastisement.
Look to his wounds.
M USICIANS . Hail, Ferdinand!
Isabella, hail!
Death, tyrant band!
B ARRILDO . Let's hear from Frondoso.
F RONDOSO . I've made a song and, if it's wrong,
You correct it as it goes along.
Hail, Isabella!
'Tis plain to be seen
Two can make one,
A King and a Queen.
When they die —
This to you, Saint Michael —
Just lift them both up to the sky.
Sweep the land clean,
O King and Queen!
L AURENCIA . See what you can do, Barrildo.
B ARRILDO . Silence, then, while I get a rhyme in my head.
P ASCUALA . If you keep your head it will be twice as good.
B ARRILDO . Hail to the King and Queen ,
For they are very famous!
They have won
And so they will not blame us.
May they always win,
Conquer giants
And a dwarf or two.
Down with tyrants!
And now I'm through.
M USICIANS . Hail, Ferdinand!
Isabella, hail!
Death, tyrant band!
L AURENCIA . Mengo next!
F RONDOSO . Now Mengo!
M ENGO . I'm a poet that is one.
P ASCUALA . You're the back of the belly.
M ENGO . Oh, one Sunday morning
The rascal beat me
From behind!
'Twas no way to treat me,
Most unkind.
How it hurt to seat me!
Glory to the Christian Kings! —
The wife must mind.
M USICIANS . Hail, Ferdinand!
Isabella, hail!
Death, tyrant band!
E STEBAN . You can take the head off the spear now.
M ENGO . He might have been hung for his looks. Phew!
R EGIDOR . Here come the arms!
E STEBAN . Let all the people see.
J UAN R OJO . Where shall the arms be set?
R EGIDOR . Before the town-hall, here, above the door.
E STEBAN . Noble escutcheon, hail!
B ARRILDO . That is a coat of arms!
F RONDOSO . I see the light to-day, for the sun begins to shine.
E STEBAN . Hail Castile and hail Leon!
Hail the bars of Aragon!
May tyrants die!
Hear, Fuente Ovejuna,
Follow counsel of the wise,
Nor hurt shall lie;
King and Queen must needs inquire
Right and wrong as they transpire,
Passing near-by.
Loyalty our hearts inspire.
F RONDOSO . That's a problem too. What shall our story be?
E STEBAN . Let us all agree to die, if it must be, crying Fuente Ovejuna , and may no word of this affair pass beyond that ever.
F RONDOSO . Besides it is the truth, for what was done, Fuente Ovejuna did it, every man and woman.
E STEBAN . Then that shall be our answer?
All . Yes!
E STEBAN . Now I shall be the Judge and rehearse us all in what we best had do. Mengo, put you to the torture first.
M ENGO . Am I the only candidate?
E STEBAN . This is but talk, lad.
M ENGO . All the same let's get through with it, and quickly.
E STEBAN . Who killed the Commander?
M ENGO . Fuente Ovejuna killed him.
E STEBAN . I'll put you to the torture.
M ENGO . You will on your life, sir.
E STEBAN . Confess, conscienceless hind!
M ENGO . I do. What of it?
E STEBAN . Who killed the Commander?
M ENGO . Fuente Ovejuna.
E STEBAN . Rack him again! Turn the wheel once more.
M ENGO . You oblige me.
E STEBAN . Reduce him to carrion and let him go.
C UADRADO . What is this meeting?
F RONDOSO . Why so grave, Cuadrado?
C UADRADO . The King's Judge is here.
E STEBAN . All to your homes, and quickly!
C UADRADO . A Captain comes with him also.
E STEBAN . Let the devil appear! You know what you are to say?
C UADRADO . They are going through the village prepared to take a deposition of every soul.
E STEBAN . Have no fear. — Mengo, who killed the Commander?
M ENGO . Fuente Ovejuna. Ask me who!
Master . Such news cannot be! To end like this? I have a mind to run you through for your insolence.
S OLDIER . I was sent, Master, without malice.
Master . Can a mad handful of louts be moved to such fury? I will take five hundred men forthwith and burn the village, leaving no memory of those paths that were so basely trod.
S OLDIER . Master, be not so moved, for they have committed themselves to the King, whose power is not to be gainsaid lightly.
Master . How can they commit themselves to the King when they are vassals of Calatrava?
S OLDIER . That, Master, you will discuss with the King.
Master . No, for the land is his and all that it contains. I do obeisance to the Crown, and if they have submitted to the King I will subdue my rage and betake me to his presence as to a father's. My fault is grievous, in whose palliation I plead my untried years. I hang my head at this mischance of honor, but again to stumble were clear dishonor, yes, and certain death.
L AURENCIA . Loving, that the beloved should suffer-pain
A grinding sorrow fastens on the heart,
Fearing the loved must bear alone the smart
Care weighs the spirit down and hope lies slain.
The firm assurance, watchful to attain,
Doubting falters, and hastens to depart,
Nor is it folly in the brave to start
And tremble, promised boon transformed to bane.
I love my husband dearly. Now I see
Harpies of Vengeance rise before my sight
Unshapely, and my hope breathes a faint breath.
Only his good I seek. Oh, set him free
Ever with me to tremble in the night,
Or take him from me, so you take me, death!
F RONDOSO . Linger not, Laurencia.
L AURENCIA . My dear husband, fly danger, for I am its very heart.
F RONDOSO . Are you one to reject the homage of a lover?
L AURENCIA . My love, I fear for you, and you are my constant care.
F RONDOSO . Laurencia, I am so happy that surely this moment heaven smiles upon us both.
L AURENCIA . You see what has happened to the others, and how this judge proceeds firmly, with all severity? Save yourself before it is too late. Fly and avoid the danger!
F RONDOSO . What do you expect in such an hour? Shall I disappear and leave the peril to others, besides absenting myself from your sight? No, counsel me courage, for in danger a man betrays his blood, which is as it should be, come what may.
I hear cries. They have put a man to the torture unless my ears deceive me. Listen and be still!
Judge . Old man, I seek only the truth. Speak!
F RONDOSO . An old man tortured?
L AURENCIA . What barbarity!
E STEBAN . Ease me a little.
Judge . Ease him. Who killed Fernando?
E STEBAN . Fuente Ovejuna.
L AURENCIA . Good, father! Glory and praise!
F RONDOSO . Praise God he had the strength!
Judge . Take that boy there. Speak, you pup, for you know! Who was it? He says nothing. Put on the pressure there.
B OY . Judge, Fuente Ovejuna.
Judge . Now by the King, carls, I'll hang you to the last man! Who killed the Commander?
F RONDOSO . They torture the child and he replies like this?
L AURENCIA . There is courage in the village.
F RONDOSO . Courage and heart.
Judge . Put that woman in the chair. Give her a turn for her good.
L AURENCIA . I can't endure it.
Judge . Peasants, be obstinate and this instrument brings death. So prepare! Who killed the Commander?
P ASCUALA . Judge, Fuente Ovejuna.
Judge . Have no mercy.
F RONDOSO . I cannot think, my mind is blank!
L AURENCIA . Frondoso, Pascuala will not tell them.
F RONDOSO . The very children hold their peace!
Judge . They thrive upon it. — More! More!
P ASCUALA . Oh, God in heaven!
Judge . Again, and answer me! Is she deaf?
P ASCUALA . I say Fuente Ovejuna.
Judge . Seize that plump lad, half undressed already.
L AURENCIA . It must be Mengo! Poor Mengo!
F RONDOSO . He can never hold out.
M ENGO . Oh, oh, oh!
Judge . Let him have it.
M ENGO . Oh!
Judge . Prod his memory.
M ENGO . Oh, oh!
Judge . Who slew the Commander, slave?
M ENGO . Oh, oh! I can't get it out! I'll tell you — —
Judge . Loosen that hand.
F RONDOSO . We are lost!
Judge . Let him have it on the back!
M ENGO . No, for I'll give up everything!
Judge . Who killed him?
M ENGO . Judge, Fuente Ovejuna.
Judge . Have these rogues no nerves that they can laugh at pain? The most likely, too, lie by instinct. I will no more to-day. To the street!
F RONDOSO . Now God bless Mengo! I was afraid, transfixed, but that lad is a cure for fear.
B ARRILDO . Good, Mengo, good!
R EGIDOR . You have delivered us.
B ARRILDO . Mengo, bravo!
F RONDOSO . We cheer you.
M ENGO . Oh, oh! Not much.
B ARRILDO . Drink, my friend, and eat. Come, come!
M ENGO . Oh, oh! What have you got?
B ARRILDO . Sweet lemon peel.
M ENGO . Oh, oh!
F RONDOSO . Drink, drink. Take this.
B ARRILDO . He does, too.
F RONDOSO . He takes it well. Down it goes.
L AURENCIA . Give him another bite.
M ENGO . Oh, oh!
B ARRILDO . Drink this for me.
L AURENCIA . Swallowed without a smile.
F RONDOSO . A sound answer deserves a round drink.
R EGIDOR . Another, son?
M ENGO . Oh, oh! Yes, yes!
F RONDOSO . Drink, for you deserve it.
L AURENCIA . He collects for every pang.
F RONDOSO . Throw a coat around him or he will freeze.
B ARRILDO . Have you had enough?
M ENGO . No, three more. Oh, oh!
F RONDOSO . He is asking for the wine.
B ARRILDO . Yes, let him drink as much as he likes for one good turn begets another. What's the matter now?
M ENGO . It leaves a taste in my mouth. Oh, I'm catching cold!
F RONDOSO . Another drink will help. Who killed the Commander?
M ENGO . Fuente Ovejuna.
F RONDOSO . He has earned more than they give him. Ah, love, as you are mine confess to me. Who killed the Commander?
L AURENCIA . Love, Fuente Ovejuna.
F RONDOSO . Who?
L AURENCIA . Don't you think you can torture me. Fuente Ovejuna.
F RONDOSO . It did? How did I get you, then?
L AURENCIA . Love, I got you.
I SABELLA . Meeting, Sire, we crown our fortunes gladly.
King . In union lies a more enduring glory.
Passing to Portugal the direct path
Leads me to you.
I SABELLA . To my heart, Majesty,
Turning away from conquest gratefully.
King . What news of the war in Castile?
I SABELLA . Peace succeeds and the land lies ready, expecting the plough.
King . Now my eyes light upon a living miracle, the consummation of a queenly peace.
M ANRIQUE . The Master of Calatrava begs audience, having journeyed to your presence from his seat.
I SABELLA . I have a mind to greet this gentleman.
M ANRIQUE . Majesty, his years are few, yet they have proved his valor great.
Master . Rodrigo Tellez Giron,
Master of Calatrava,
Humbly kneels repentant
And pardon begs, foredone.
False counsels proffered one
By one seduced my heart
To deeds disloyal and rash;
Now end all as begun
When a too ready ear
In Fernando placed its trust,
That false and unjust knight.
Pardon, Sire, past fear!
In mercy hold me dear,
Oh grant me royal favor,
To pay in loyalty
Forever rendered here!
Upon Granada's plain
When sounds the wild alarm
My valor shall wreak harm,
My sword-strokes fall amain
And through that fell champaign
Dart wounds to the enemy
Till the cross of victory
Red o'er the merlons reign.
Five hundred men in steel
I shall lead to smite your foes
Upon my life and oath, or close
My eyes in death! Here I kneel,
Never to displease you more.
King . Rise, Master. Having tendered your allegiance you shall be received royally.
Master . Every word is balm.
I SABELLA . Few speak as bravely as they fight.
Master . Esther has returned to earth to wed a Christian Xerxes.
M ANRIQUE . Sire, the Judge that was despatched to Fuente Ovejuna has arrived with the process to report to Your Majesty.
King . To the Master . These aggressors, being of the Commandery, fall within your province.
Master . Sire, I yield to you, else were bloody vengeance taken for the death of the Commander.
King . To the Q UEEN . Then the decision rests with me?
I SABELLA . I grant it willingly though the right were mine of God.
Judge . I journeyed to Fuente Ovejuna in prosecution of your command probing all with due diligence and care. Having verified the crime, no writ or indictment has issued, inasmuch as with one accord and most singular fortitude, to all my questions as to the murderer the answer was always Fuente Ovejuna. Three hundred were put to torture, to the degree that forced them each to speak, without profit, Sire, of one word other than I have told you. Boys of ten were delivered to the rack, without yielding so much as a whisper, nor could they be moved by flattery or gold. Wherefore, this is my report, the evidence having failed: either you must pardon the village or wipe it out to the last man. They have followed me to your feet that in your own person you may pronounce judgment.
King . If they seek our presence, let them appear before us, every one.
L AURENCIA . Are those the King and Queen?
F RONDOSO . The power and majesty of Castile!
L AURENCIA . How beautiful, how wonderful! Saint Antonio, bless them both!
I SABELLA . Are these the people of the village?
E STEBAN . Majesty, Fuente Ovejuna humbly kneels at your feet in allegiance. The mad tyranny and fierce cruelty of the dead Commander, raining insults through the farms, themselves provoked his death. He ravished our homes, forced our daughters, and knew no heart nor mercy.
F RONDOSO . This simple girl, O Queen, who is mine by rite of heaven, and has brought me all happiness, which surely must be matchless, on my wedding-night, as if it had been his very own, he bore off to his keep, and but that she is secure in honor, basely that night he had deflowered her.
M ENGO . I know something as to that, with your permision, Queen, because you must be anxious to hear from me, seeing the bloody tanning that I got. I stood up for a girl in the village when the Commander went along the way to her undoing, the scurvy Nero, and then he took it out on me, and there never was a more thorough job at bottom. Three men paid it their attention, good pay all three, since when, if you ask the explanation, I paid more for balm and ointment, with the powder and the myrtle I applied, than I could sell my sheep-cot for.
E STEBAN . Sire, we yield ourselves to you. You are our King, and in witness of submission we have placed your arms above our doors. Have mercy, Sire, for our excuse is our extremity, which deserves your clemency.
King . As no indictment is set down, although the fault be grave, it shall be pardoned. Since you yield yourselves to me, I further take the town under my protection, for in the Crown henceforth its charter shall abide, until such time as God in His mercy shall vouchsafe you a new Commander.
F RONDOSO . When His Majesty speaks
His voice we obey.
" Fuente Ovejuna " ends.
Friends, approve the play.
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