Bernard Capes

“ Frequently it was the way with Polichinelle, when the theatre was closed, to hire a wherry and pull restfully about the Seine in the moonlight. This seemed to recoup him after the mocking ordeal of the show. He need not there confuse his own identity with any puppet of another’s imagining in order to escape from the reproach of being himself. He could look into the face of the night without, as in human countenances, seeing his insignificance reflected and fleeringly cast back upon him. ”

“ Polichinelle rescued this unfortunate for the moment; but only to have her die in his arms a little later. The police complimented him on his readiness and capability.
“It is the best part you have ever played, M. Polichinelle,” they said.
“Yes,” he answered, smiling. “Am I not an actor! But, there is still an epilogue to speak. The woman, before she died, dictated it to me.”
They put the woman in the Morgue; but nobody claimed her.
“You go the wrong way to work,” said Polichinelle. “When a jewel has been stolen, you will not catch the thief by exhibiting the casket.” ”

“ True, you have honour, and that always is singular; but we women prefer honours in the plural. Then, you are very ugly, except when you play a part——”
“But, the part he plays, does it beautify M. le Comte?” said Polichinelle. ”