PATOU
I froth at the mouth! Smart,--there's the Peacock's password!

CHANTECLER
Oh, the Peacock, by the way, what is he doing these days?

THE BLACKBIRD
Ogling with his tail-feathers!

PATOU
Baneful his example has been to many an humble heart.

CHANTECLER
What signs do you see of his influence?

PATOU
A thousand nothings.

THE OLD HEN
[_Appearing._] Bubbles floating down the stream tell of laundresses up
stream! [_The lid drops._]

CHANTECLER
I am sure I have not seen the smallest bubble from which--

PATOU
[_Indicating a_ GUINEA-PIG, _who is passing._] See there, that
Guinea-pig--

CHANTECLER