PATOU
[_To the_ BLACKBIRD.] Point-blank, do you admire or despise the Cock?

BLACKBIRD
I make fun of him in spots, but admire him in lump!

PATOU
You always peck two kinds of seed.

THE BLACKBIRD
My cage has two seed-cups, you see.

PATOU
I am single-minded and downright!

THE BLACKBIRD
You--are an old poodle of the year 48! I am an up-to-date bird!

PATOU
[_Gruffly._] Out of my way! lest I give your black coat red tails!
[_The_ BLACKBIRD _nimbly gets out of the way,_ PATOU _goes into his
kennel grumbling._] I'll show him some up-to-date jaws!

CHANTECLER
Be quiet! It's his way. The truth is that if once he stood in the
presence of beauty, this very Blackbird would applaud!

PATOU
Not with both wings! What can you expect of a bird who, with woodbine