The Harvesters (1770) - Page 10

RUSTAUT, to Rosine.

What is that little girl doing there!
Retire.

ROSINE.

But...

RUSTAUT.

But this is prattling.

I care little for your sulky look.
You waste your charming expressions on me.
Wait until the harvesting is done;
Imitate the other glaneuses female gleaners.

ROSINE, letting the ears of corn fall from her apron.

Sir, do not scold so loudly.
Here, I give you everything back, if I have wronged you;

CANDOR, low to Rustaut.

Why sadden her? She is pretty and wise.
She is in need. I know nothing worse
Than to mortify the people we help.
Let many ears fall,
So that she may glean more.

(During this time, Rosine wipes away with her apron the little tears that run from her eyes.)

RUSTAUT.

Hon! You are too good.

CANDOR.

Be quiet.

One becomes enriched by what one gives;
Misfortune is sacred to me.
Pick up these ears; do what I command you.

RUSTAUT, putting back into Rosine’s apron the ears she had let fall.

Take the whole field, then, since the Master wills it.

ROSINE.

I will use them in a prudent manner.

CANDOR, aside.

Her gentleness touches and moves me.
She is truly interesting.