Part 435 (1/2)

[To JOHANNA.

Drink, n.o.ble maiden! may G.o.d bless it to you!

CHARCOAL-BURNER (to his son).

Art come, Anet? What news?

[The boy looks at JOHANNA, who is just raising the bowl to her lips; he recognizes her, steps forward, and s.n.a.t.c.hes it from her.

BOY.

Oh, mother! mother!

Whom do you entertain? This is the witch Of Orleans!

CHARCOAL-BURNER (and his WIFE).

G.o.d be gracious to our souls!

[They cross themselves and fly.

SCENE IV.

RAIMOND, JOHANNA.

JOHANNA (calmly and gently) Thou seest, I am followed by the curse, And all fly from me. Do thou leave me, too; Seek safety for thyself.

RAIMOND.

I leave thee! now Alas, who then would bear thee company?

JOHANNA.

I am not unaccompanied. Thou hast Heard the loud thunder rolling o'er my head-- My destiny conducts me. Do not fear; Without my seeking I shall reach the goal.

RAIMOND.

And whither wouldst thou go? Here stand our foes, Who have against thee b.l.o.o.d.y vengeance sworn-- There stand our people who have banished thee.

JOHANNA.

Naught will befall me but what heaven ordains.

RAIMOND.

Who will provide thee food? and who protect thee From savage beasts, and still more savage men?

Who cherish thee in sickness and in grief?

JOHANNA.

I know all roots and healing herbs; my sheep Taught me to know the poisonous from the wholesome.

I understand the movements of the stars, And the clouds' flight; I also hear the sound Of hidden springs. Man hath not many wants, And nature richly ministers to life.

RAIMOND (seizing her hand).

Wilt thou not look within? Oh, wilt thou not Repent thy sin, be reconciled to G.o.d, And to the bosom of the church return?

JOHANNA.

Thou hold'st me guilty of this heavy sin?

RAIMOND.

Needs must I--thou didst silently confess----