Unmistaj: True. (He

11:10 PM Sun 12 Dec ~ @ 76% 1• I•
Done Arms_and_the_Man_Text - Copy.pdf
CATHERINE. Stop! (Louka stops.) He will have to go out that way (indicating the
gate of the stable yard). Tell Nicola to bring his bag here after him. Don't
forget.
LOUKA (surprised). His bag? -

CATHERINE. Yes, here, as soon as possible. (Vehemently.) Be quick! (Louka runs
into the house. Catherine snatches her apron off and throws it behind a bush.
She then takes up the salver and uses it as a mirror, with the result that the
-
handkerchief tied round her head follows the apron. A touch to her hair and a
shake to her dressing gown makes her presentable.) Oh~ how-how-how can
a man be such a fool! Such a moment tn c:PIPrtl H..oub -"nn~t.th....:lnor.
~e house, announcing ";'Capt~ Bl! Catherine uses an excuse to sneak Bluntschli
the steps to let him pass before s out. This also marks another ironic moment
. . , . ~- . I because this is totally contradictory lo what
adventure In Rama S I 00111. ltle IS DO Raina told Bluntschll in ACT i that her family
~nd out of trouble, but still unmistaJ treated guests honorably and hospitably.
I
back is turned, Catherine swoops on
1
½.apJain Bluntschli, ~ am very g,lad !,
once. (He raises his ey_ebrow~J_!My
on-in-Jaw; and they know nothin~
terrible. You are a foreigner: ):'OU do 110.,.m o~nanowu uunno.:,1u1;.:, a., wcn"J,
e still hate the Servians4: the only effect of th.~p~JLce on my_bu.~11,d_i.Ll~
llf
make him feel like a lion baul_ked of his ~y. he discovered our secret, h
ould never forgive me; and my daughter's life would hardly be safefWill
you, like the chivalrous gentleman and soldier you are, leave at once before be
finds you here?
BLUNTSCHLl (disappointed, but philosophical). Al once, gracious lady. I only

came to thank you and return the coat you lent me. lfyou will allow me to take
it out of my bag and leave it with your servant as I pass out, I need detain you
no further. (He turns to go into the house.)
CA THERINE (catching him by the sleeve). Oh, you must not think of going back
that way. (Coaxing him across to the stable gates.) This is the shortest way out.
Many thanks. So glad to have been of service to you. Good-bye.
BLUNTSCHLL But my bag?
CATHERINE. It will be sent on. You will leave me your address.
BLUNTSCHLI. True. Allow me. (He takes out bis card-case, and stops to write bis
address, keeping Catherine in an agony of impatience. As he hands her the
11:09 PM Sun 12 Dec ~ © 76% 1• )•
CATHERINE (flaming). A Servian! How dare he-(Checking herself bitterly.) Oh,

I forgot. We are at peace now. I suppose we shall have them calling every day
-
We, for the first time, learn the the name of the
strange soldier who climbed into Raina's room.
now, the two are are troubled; they try to conceal
him from Petkoff and Sergius.
-
to pay their complime you tell your
master? He is in the lib ne to me?
LOVKA. But he asks for yo 10 you are: he

aid the lady of the ho _ .. (She takes a
card out of her bosom; puts it on the salver- ,d offers it to Catherine.)
LOUKA. Swiss, madam, I think.
CATHERINE (with a bound that makes Louka jump back). Swiss! What is he like?
LOUKA (timidly). He has a big carpet bag. madam.
CA THERJN E. Oh, Heavens, he's come to return the coat! Send him away-say
we're not at home-ask him to leave his address and I'll write to him-Oh,
top: that will never do. Wait! (She throws herself into a chair to think it out.
Louka waits.) The master and Major Saranoff are busy in the library, aren't
they?
LOUKA. Yes, madam.
CATHERCNE (decisively). Bring the gentleman out here at once. (lmperatively.)

And be very polite to him, Don't delay. Here (impatiently snatching the salver
from her): leave that here; and go straight back to him.
LOVKA. Yes, madam. (Going.)
ATHERTNE. Louka!
LOVKA (stopping). Yes, madam.

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34 of 70
SERGIUS (speaking to himself). Which of the six is the real man?-that's the
question that torments me. One of them is a hero, another a buffoon, another a
humbug, another perhaps a bit of a blackguard. (He pauses and looks furtively
at Louka, as he adds with deep bitterness) And one, at least, is a coward-
jealous, like all cowards. (He goes to the table.) Louka.
LOUKA. Yes?
SERGIUS. Who is my rival?
LOUKA. You shall never get that out of me, for love or money. -
SERGIUS. Why?
-~ rever mind why. Besides, you would tell that I told you; and I should los
-
r~y,1~lace.
SERGIUS (holding out his right hand in Again, having not told him about the identity of
the man hidden in Raina's room Louka perhaps
checks himself, and his hand drops the most practical and perspective character
of a man capable of behaving as I ha among others. Although she loves Sergius and
Who is he? hates Raina , she never tells him because she
knows that will be disadvantageous for her.
LOlJK6,.J don't know. I never saw him.

~er room.
SERGIUS namnation! How dare you?
OUKA_l (retreating). Ob, I mean no harm: you've no right to take up my words like
that. The mistress knows all about it. And I tell you that if that gentleman ever
comes here again, Miss Raina will marry him, whether he likes it or not. I
know the difference between the sort of manner you and she put on before one
another and the real manner. (Sergius shivers as if she had stabbed him. Then,
etting his face like iron, be strides grimly to her, and grips her above the
elbows with both bands.)
SERGIUS. Now listen you to me!
LOUKA (wincing). Not so tight: you're hurting me!
SERGIUS. That doesn't matter. You have stained my honor by making me a party to
your eavesdropping. And you have betrayed your mistress-s-
LOUKA (writhing). Please-

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34 of 70
at Louka, as he adds with deep bitterness) And one, at least, is a coward-
jealous, like all cowards. (He goes to the table.) Louka.
LOUKA. Yes?
SERGIUS. Who is my rival?
LOUK.A. You shall never get that out of me, for love or money. -
SERGIUS. Why?
LOUKA.
...---
. Besides, you would tell that I told you; and I should los
-
,-- v..nlJI
Louka is very allentive person : she saw the true

love between Raina and the soldier. She does hand in affirmation). No; on the honor of a-(He
not see it as an ideal or Byronic love because
Raina's and Sergius's loved arises from a desire
1d drops nerveless as he concludes, sardonically)-
and public appearance 1g as 1 have been behaving for the last five minutes.
aw him. I only heard his voice through the door of
SERGIUS i-)amnation! How dare you?
~ ~ .... , (retreating). Oh, 1 mean no harm: you've no right to take up my words like
that. The mistress knows all about it. And I tell you that if that gentleman ever
comes here again, Miss Raina will marry him, whether he likes it or not. 1
know the difference between the sort of manner you and she put on before one
another and the real manner. (Sergius shivers as if she had stabbed him. Then,
etting his face like iron, he strides grimly to her, and grips her above the
elbows with both bands.)
SERGIUS. Now listen you to me!
LOUKA (wincing). Not so tight: you're hurting me!
SERGIUS. That doesn't matter. You have stained my honor by making me a party to
your eavesdropping. And you have betrayed your mistress-s-
LOUKA (writhing). Please-

11:09 PM Sun 12 Dec ~ @ 76% 1• I•
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Sergius lashes out at Louka and insulting her

verbally and physically making a bruise on her
arms. He draws attention to her job and class.
SERGfJ.JS. That shews that you are an ab

l!e soul of a servant.r(He lets her go
away, dusting his hands of her, to t
with ~"erted head, meditating gloomuy.,
OUK.Al (whimpering angrily with her hands up her sleeves, feeling her bruised
arms). You know how to hurt witluour tongJJe as weJl as with_y,our hands.
But I don't care, ~ow I've found out that whatever clay I'm made~ou're
made_of the same. As for her, she's a liar; and her fine airs are a cheat; and I'
orth six of her. (She shakes the pain off hardily; tosses her head; and sets to
work to put the things on the tray. He Looks doubtfully at her once or twice.
She finishes packing the tray, and laps the cloth over the edges, so as to carry
all out together. As she stoops to lift it, he rises.)
SERGIUS. Louka! (She stops and looks defiantly at him with the tray in her hands.)
A gentleman has no right to hurt a woman under any gi:cumstances. (With
profound humility, uncovering bis bead.) I begyour pardon.
LOUKA. That sort of apology may satisfy a lady. Of what use is it to a servant?
SERGfUS (thus rudely crossed in his chivalry, throws it off with a bitter laugh and
says slightingly). Oh, you wish to be paid for the hurt? (He puts on his shako,
and takes some money from bis pocket.)
LOUKA (her eyes filling with tears in spite of herself). No, I want my hurt made
well.
SERGIUS (sobered by her tone). How?
(She rolls up her left sleeve; clasps her arm with tile
thumb and fingers of her right hand; and looks down al
the bruise. Then she raises her head and looks straight at
him. Finally, with a superb gesture she presents her arm
to be kissed. Amazed, be looks at her; at the arm; at her
again; hesitates; and then, with shuddering intensity
exclain=>
11:09 PM Sun 12 Dec ~ @ 76% 1• I•

SERGIUS (again putting his arm round her). You are a provoking little witch,
Louka. lfyou were in love with 01e, would you spy out of windows on me?
33 of 70
LOUKAjWell, you see, sir, since you say you are half a dozen different gentlemen
all at once, I should have a ~eat deal to look after.
SERGIUS (cbanned). Witty as well as pretty. (He tries to kiss her.)
LOUKA (avoiding him). No, I don't want your kisses. Gentlefolk are all alike-yo
baking love to me behind Miss Raina's back, and she doing the same behin
ours.
Sergius is really a man of mulli-personality; he is
easily changeable and acts according to the
ERGJUS (recoiling a step). Louka! situation and circumstances.
LOU.KA. It shews bow little you really ca:
SERGI\LS (dropping his familiarity and

~onversation is to continue, Louka,
'does not discuss the conduct of the
LOUKA. it's so hard to know what a gentleman considers right. I thought from your
trying to kiss me that you bad given up being so particular.
SERGIUS (turning from ber and strikingjtis forehead as he comes back into the
garden from the gateway). Devil! devil!
LOUKA. Ha! ha! I expect one of the six of you is very like me, sir, though 1 am
only Miss Raina's maid. (She goes back to her work at the table, taking no
further notice of hirn.)
at Louka, as be adds with deep bitterness) And one, at least, is a coward-
jealous, like all cowards, (He goes to the table.) Louka.
n.oa PM Sun 12 Dec ~ @ 76% 1• I•
moustache nervously, witb bis left band akimbo on his hip. Finally, striking
32 of 70 the ground with his heels in something of a cavalry swagger, he strolls over to
the left of the table, opposite her, and says) Louka: do you know what the
higher love is?
LOVKA (astonished). No, sir.
SERGIUS. Very fatiguing thing to keep up for any length of time, Louka. One feel
the need of some relief after it.
LOVKA (innocently). Perhaps you would like some coffee, sir? (She stretches her
band across the table for the coffee pot.)
SERGIUS (taking her band). Thank you, Louka.

-
LOVK.A (pretending to pull). Oh, sir, you know l didn't mean that. I'm surprised at
you!
-
SERGIUS (coming clear of the table and drawing her with him). 1 am sumriseJiJll
myself, Louka. i\Vhat
wou!<LS.emi.us.Jb.e.-hero_o.LSlivnitza"-.s.ayj(_he saw m
ow? What would Sergiu Although Louka entertains Sergius's affection,
now? What would the hal she is shocked at his boldness where Raina is in
this handsome figure of m the house and might see them. Louka proves to
be more practical and aware than Sergius who
1 her hand
and slipping his arm dexte proves to be mischievous, romantic and my figure
idealistic.
handsome, Louka?
LOVK.A. Let me go, ~ir. _ , holds her

inexorably.) Oh, will you I
SERGIUS (looking straight into her eyes). No.
LOVKA. [Fhen stand back where we can't be seenl Have you no common sense?
SERGIUS. Ah, that's reasonable. (He takes her into the stableyard gateway, where
they are bidden from the house.)
T f"\T rv A ,,., . ....•.•..••.•. ,,.: •..• : •..•. h\ T •.•..•...••• 1. ••..•.• ,,,.. 1.. ...•......••..• .. __ ,,..
n.oa PM Sun 12 Dec ~ @ 76% 1• I•
moustache nervously, witb bis left band akimbo on his hip. Finally, striking
32 of 70 the ground with his heels in something of a cavalry swagger, he strolls over to
the left of the table, opposite her, and says) Louka: do you know what the
higher love is?
LOVKA (astonished). No, sir.
SERGIUS. Very fatiguing thing to keep up for any length of time, Louka. One feel
the need of some relief after it.
LOVKA (innocently). Perhaps you would like some coffee, sir? (She stretches her
band across the table for the coffee pot.)
SERGIUS (taking her band). Thank you, I-··'--

-
Segius refers to himself as a hero and admits
that though he loves Raina, his personality-he is
LOVK.A (pretending to pull). Oh, sir, yoi of mulli-personality. will allow him to go beyond
you! her with Louka. Sergius's behavior swiftly
changes where he not only does he lllrt with
Louka, he throws caution to the wind.
SERGIUS (coming clear..9ltbe_t_a_bJe anq
myself, Louka. M'bat would Sergi
ow? What would Sergius, the apo
now? What would the half dozen '
I
tl:IJS handsome figure Of' mine Say if W'-.)' \,QU!,Ul U.> \.l..A,llUI!, !,V U\,1. uaud U\,L\,":
and slipping his arm dexterously round her waist.) Do you consider my figure
handsome, Louka?
LOVK.A. Let me go, ,sir. I shall be disgraced] (She struggles: he bolds her
inexorably.) Ob, will you let go?
SERGIUS (looking straight into her eyes). No.

~
LOVKA. ifhen stand back where we can't be seen. Have you no common sense?
SERGlUS. Ah, that's reasonable. (He takes her into the stableyard gateway, where
they are hidden from the house.)
T f"\T rv A ,,., •. .•••.•..••••. ,,.: •.•• : •..•. h\ T •.•..•...••• 1 . ••..•.• ,,,.. 1.. ...•......••..• .. __ ,,..
n.os PM Sun 12 Dec ~© 76%(•)•
CATHERINE. Ob, Raina, what a silly question!
SERGIUS. He was like a commercial traveller in uniform. Bourgeois to his boots.
PETKOFF (grinning) .. !Sergius: tell Catherine that queer story bis friend told u
i3bout him-how be escaped after Slivnitza. You remember?-about his bein
hid b)'. two women,
SERGIUS (with bitter irony). Ob, yes, quite a romance. He was serving in the very
battery I so unprofessionally charged. Being a thorough soldier, he ran away
Like the rest of them, with our cavalry at his heels. To escape their attentions,
he had the good taste to take refuge in the chamber of some patriotic young
Bulgarian lady. The,.Youn~gy was enchanted b)'. his persuasive commercial
traveller's manners. She very modestly entertained him for an hour or so an
tlten called in her mother lest b,..,.,..,...A••.
ady was equally fascinated; Both Catherine pretended to be offended by this
orning disguised in an old story. Raina reproach Sergius for telling such a
' th __. shameful story before them, claiming to be very
as away at e war. patriot ans sensitive.
RAJNA (rising with marked stateliot Ja..- .:>~,

Sergius. [ did not think )'.OU w l(She
turns away coldly.)
CATHERINE (also rising)JShe is ri

~ared the knowledge of them
PETKOFF. Pooh! nonsense! what does it matter?
SERGIUS (ashamed). No, Petkoff: I was wrong. (To Raina, with earnest humility.) I
beg your pardon. l have behaved abominably. Forgive me, Raina. (She bows
reservedly.) And you, too, madam. (Catherine bows graciously and sits down.
He proceeds solemnly, again addressing Raina.) The glimpses l have had of
the seamy side of life during the last few months have made me cynical; but I
should not have brought my cynicism here-least of all into your presence,
Raina. 1-(Here, turning to the others, he is evidently about to begin a long
peech when the Major interrupts him.)
r, - ~ •I t r _ I _ .t •
n.os PM Sun 12 Dec ~© 76%(•)•
30 of 70
SERGIUS. He was like a commercial traveller in uniform. Bourgeois to bis boots.
hid b)'. two women,
Like the rest of them, with our cavalry al his heels. To escape their attentions
he had the good taste to take refuge in the chamber of some patriotic young
Bulgarian lady. The oungjgg_y was enchanted b.Y. his P,ersuasive comtnercial
traveller's manners. She very modestly entertained him for an hour or so an
then called in her mother lest her conduct should appear unmaidenly. The old]
ady was equally fascinated; and the fugitive was sent on his way in th
oming, disguised in an old coat belonging to the master of the house, wb
as away at the war]
Hence, both the mother and her daughter prove
RAJNA (rising with marked stateliness).,j to be excellent liars, for they know that the
women in the story are Catherine and Raina, yet
Sergius. [ did not think )'.OU would they act offended at the existence of such
turns away coldly.) - women. They lie to maintain their image in front
of their spouses.
CATHERINE (also rising)_JShe is ri~

~ared ilie knowledge of them
PETKOFF. Pooh! nonsense! what does it r,,u •• ~•.
SERGIUS (ashamed). No, Petkoff: I was wrong. (To Raina, with earnest humility.) l
He proceeds solemnly, again addressing Raina.) The glimpses I have had of
the seamy side of life during the last few months have made me cynical; but 1
Raina. !-(Here, turning to the others, he is evidently about to begin a long
r, - ..., ., _ I _ • I •
n.os PM Sun 12 Dec ~© 76%(•)•
30 of 70
SERGIUS. He was like a commercial traveller in uniform. Bourgeois to his boots.
hid b)'. two women,
There is a striking feature in this play.which is the

presence of chance or coincidence. The story
that Petkoff and Sergius happen to have heard
Like the rest of them, with our caval about the retreating soldier in fact happened in
he had the good taste to take refug the very house of Petkoff.
Bulgarian lady. The,:i'.oung lapy wa:

traveller's manners. She very mod
tlten called in her mother lest her cc
ady was equally fascinated; and i
oming, disguised in an old coat b'c.vup;-c, -- -- ------- -- --- ------, ··--·
as away at the war]
RAINA (rising with marke~ stateline~s). Your life in the camP. has made you coa .•• ~,
Sergius. [ did not think you would have re~eated such a story before me1 (She
turns away coldly.)
CATHERINE (also rising)..,_,She is ri gb_t, Sergius. If such women exist, we should b

1
~ared the knowledge of them
PETKOFF. Pooh! nonsense! what does it matter?
SERGIUS (ashamed). No, Petkoff: I. was wrong. (To Raina, with earnest humility.) I
He proceeds solemnly, again addressing Raina.) The glimpses l have had of
the seamy side of life during the last few months have made me cynical; but I
Raina. !-(Here, turning to the others, he is evidently about to begin a long
r, - ..., .. _ I _ • I •
n.os PM Sun 12 Dec ~© 76%(•)•
27 of 70
reserved in shewing her enthusiasm. As he enters from
the stable gate, she rises effusively to greet him. Petkoff
is distinctly less disposed to make a fuss about bim.)
PETKOFF. Here already, Sergius. Glad to see you!
CATHERINE. My dear Sergius!(She holds out both her hands.)
SERGIUS (kissing them with scrupulous gallantry). My dear mother, if I may call
you so.
PETKOFF (drily). Mother-in-law, Sergius; mother-in-law! Sit down, and have some
coffee.
SERGrUS. Thank you, none for me. (He gets away from the table with a certain
distaste for Petkoff's enjoyment of it, and posts himself with conscious grace
against the Mil of the steps leading to the house.)
CATHERINE. You look superb-splendid. The campaign has improved you.

Everybody here is mad about you. We were all wild with enthusiasm about
that magnificent cavalry charge.
SERGIUS (with grave irony). Madam: it was the cradle and the grave of my
military reputation.
CA THERJNC How so?
ERGIUS. l woo the battle the wrong way when our worthy Russian generals were
losing it the right way. That upset their plans, and wounded their self-esteem.
Two of their colonels got their regiments driven back on die correct principles
of scientific warfare. Two major-generals got killed strictly according to
military etiquette. Those two colon-':' --- --··· --=-- ------•-· __ . .• ,. -- -.:11 a
simple major. He is outraged and irritated and thinks of
submitting his resignation because he has won
the battle for Bulgaria and still been unfairly
CATHERINE. You shall not remain so, denied a promotion. The officers believe that it 1d
they will see that justice is done yo was foolish and out of military etiquette despite
the fact that his cavalry charge was successful
SERGlUS. ~tis too late. I have only wai
PETKOFF (dropping bis cup in his amaz
CA THERINE. Oh, you must withdraw it!

11:07 PM Sun 12 Dec ~© 76%(•)•
reserved in shewing her enthusiasm. As he enters from

the stable gate, she rises effusively to greet him. Petkoff
is distinctly less disposed to make a fuss about bim.)
PETKOFF. Here already, Sergius. Glad to see you!
CATHERINE. My dear Sergius!(She holds out both her hands.)
SERGIUS (kissing them with scrupulous gallantry). My dear mother, if I may call
you so.
PETKOFF (drily). Mother-in-law, Sergius; mother-in-law! Sit down, and have some
coffee.
SERGIUS. Thank you, none for me. (He gets away from the table with a certain
ni<:t:i<:tP. for PP.tlcnff'<: P.ninv111ent of it, and posts himself with conscious grace
This signifies that war has no place tor such 1d ing to the house.)
people like Sergius. whom war and soldiering is
beneath.
-splendid. The campaign has improved you.
1t you. We were all wild with enthusiasm about
~e.
adam: it was die cradle and the grave of my
ow so?
ERGIUSJ I won die battle the wrong way when our worthy Russian generals were
losing it the right way. That upset their plans, and wounded their self-esteem.
Two of their colonels got their regiments driven back on the correct principles
of scientific warfare. Two major-generals got killed strictly according to
military etiquette. Those two colonels are now major-generals; and I am still a
simple major.
CATHERINE. You shall not remain so, Sergius. The women are on your side; and
they will see d1at justice is done you.
SERGlUS. ~tis too late. I have only waited for die peace to send in my resiS!!ation.
PETKOFF (dropping bis cup i11 his amazement). Your resignation!
CA THERINE. Oh, you must withdraw it!

11:07 PM sun 12 d'JilTKOFF. There's Sergius. (Shouting.) Hollo, Nicola! ~© 76%(•)•
CATHERrNE. Oh, don't shout, Paul: it really isn't nice.

26 of 70
PETKOFF. Bosh! (He shouts louder than before.) Nicola!
NlCOLA (appearing at the house door). Yes, sir.
PETKOFF. If that is Major Saranoff, bring him round this way. (He pronounces the
name with the stress on the second syllable-Sarah-noff.)
NICOLA. Yes, sir. (He goes into the stable yard.)
Iv
PETKQ!:E ou must talk to him, my dear, until Raina takes him off our hands. H
ores my life out about our not P.romoting him-over my head, mind you.I
CATHERINE. Here is the ideal hero for Romantic Raina- anies Raina' Besides,
Sergius who represents the picture of Byronism- neral.
idealistic, handsome and brooding. Byron is a
romantic poet whose poems praised beauty,
ETKOFFJ Yes, so youth, and emotions and lived an adventurous ; instead of regiments.
H's no use, ID) life of love and battle iromotion until we are
quite sure that
NICOLA (at the gat He goes into the house

and returns pr, ,s at the table. He then
wi tbdraws.)
-
ajor Sergius Saranoff, the original of the portrait in
Raina's room, is a ta!J, romantically handsome man
with the physical hardihood, the high spirit, and the
susceptible imagination of an untamed mountaineer
chieftain. But his remarkable personal distinction is of a
characteristically civilized type. The ridges of his
eyebrows, curving with a ram's-horn twist round the
marked projections at the outer corners, bis jealously
observant eye, his nose, thin, keen, and apprehensive in
spite of the pugnacious high bridge and large nostril, his
assertive chin, would not be out of place in a Paris
salon. ln short, the clever, imaginative barbarian has an
. ~ .,
11:07 PM Sun 12 Dec ~ @ 76% 1• I•
Done Arms_and_the_Man_Text- Copy.pdf

26 of 70
PETKOFF. If that is Major Saranoff, brin Sergius thought that he would be promoted for
leading the cavalry charge and making B win the
name with the stress on the second war; however, he has not been promoted
because his act has not been considered lactic
NICOLA. Yes, sir. (He goes into the stab] or professional
PETKQ!:E You must talk to him, my des

ores my life out about our not pro
CATHERINE. He certainly ought to be promoted when he marries Raina Besides,

the cou-vy should insist on having at least one native general.
PETKOFFJ Yes, so that be could throw away whole brigades instead of regiments.
It's no use, my dear: he has not the slightest chance of promotion until we are
quite sure that the peace will be a lasting one.
NICOLA (at the gate, announcing). Major Sergius Saranoffl (He goes into the house
and returns presently with a third chair, which he places at the table. He then
withdraws.)
-
Major Sergius Saranoff, the original of the portrait in
Raina's room, is a tall, romantically handsome man
marked projections at the outer corners, his jealously
. ~
11:07 PM Sun 12 Dec ~© 76%(•)•
25 of 70
CATHERINE. You are a barbarian at heart still, Paul. J hope you behaved yourself
before alJ those Russian officers.
PETKOFF. I did my best. I took care to let them know that we had a1 ._.
CATHERIN EJ Ah; but you didn't tell them that we have an electric bell in it? I hav
[had one put up.
PETKOFF. What's an electric bell?
CATHERINE. You touch a button; something tinkles in the kitchen; and then
Nicola comes up.
PETKOFF. Why not shout for him? The are yet to know how best to assert
themselves as upper-class society members.
They are unable to know the rules and behavior
CA THERINE. Civilized people never she of aristocratic families.
you were away.
PETKOFF. IWell, I'll tell you something I

but their washing to dry where visi
bndicating the clothes on the bushes
CATHERINE. Oh, that's absurd, Paul: 1 don't believe really refined people notice
such things.
(Someone is heard knocking at the stable gates.)
PETKOFF. There's Sergius. (Shouting.) Hollo, Nicola!
CATHERINE. Oh, don't shout, Paul: it really isn't nice.
NICOLA (appearing at the house door). Yes, sir.
PETKQFF. iY ou must talk to him, my dear, until Raina takes him off our hand~ -
ores mv life out about our not nromotina him--over mv head. mind vou.
11:07 PM Sun 12 Dec ~© 76%(•)•
25 of 70
CA THERfN E. You are a barbarian at hea Catherine cares more about public appearances;
she tells P that, in his absence, they have
before alJ those Russian officers. installed an electric bell for the servants. So they
wont shout. she fins it more civilized • but P finds
it unnecessary.
PETKOFF. I did my best. I took care to le
CATHERIN EJ Ah; but you didn't te11 the

had one put up.
PETKOFF. What's an electric bell?
CATHERINE. You touch a button; something tinkles in the kitchen; and then
Nicola comes up.
PETKOFF. Why not shout for him?
CATHERINE. Civilized people never shout for their servants. I've learnt that while
you were away.
PETKOFF. ~ell, I'll tell you something I've learnt, too. Civilized people don't han
rut their washing to dry where visitors can see it; so you'd better have all thaf
,(indicating the clothes on the bushes) put somewhere else.
CATHERINE. Oh, that's absurd, Paul: I don't believe really refined people notice
such things.
(Someone is heard knocking at the stable gates.)
PETKOFF. There's Sergius. (Shouting.) Hollo, Nicola!
CATHERINE. Oh, don't shout, Paul: it really isn't nice.
NICOLA (appearing at the house door). Yes, sir.

-
PETKOFF. iY ou must talk to him, my dear, until Raina takes him off our hands. H
ores mv life out about our not nromotina him--over mv head. mind vou. -
11:07 PM Sun 12 Dec ~ @ 76% 1• I•

---- ------·, -··· --·· --·-- ·· --- -··· --- ------o o-··-,
and a colored handkerchief tied over her thick black
24of 70 hair, with Turkish slippers on her bare feet, comes from
the house, looking astonishjggjy ..b,a.nd§.ome ~d.J.t11tel
under all the circumstances. Louka goes into the house.)
CA THERJNE. My dear Paul, what a surprise for us. (She stoops over the back of
his chair to kiss him.) Have they brought you fresh coffee?
PETKOFF. Yes, Louka's been looking after me. The war's over. The ~reaty was
signed three days ago at Bucharest; and the decree for our army to demobilize
was issued yesterday.
CA THERINE (springing erect, with flashi

the Austrians force you to make pea1
He is a man of self-seriousness and quietness;
he is not insightful man. He likes peace on the
opposite of his wife Catherine •
PETKOFF (submissively). !My dear: they
its down and turns away from him.
as an honorable one. It declares
I
CATHERINE (outraged). Peace!
PETKOFF (appeasing her).-but not friendly relations: remember that They

wanted to put that in; but I insisted on its being struck out. What more could I
do?
CA THERJNE. You could have annexed Servia and made Prince Alexander
Emperor of the Balkans. That's what 1 would have done.
PETKOFF. 1 don't doubt it in the least, my dear. But I should have had to subdue the
whole Austrian Empire first; and that would have kept me too long away from
you. I missed you greatly.
CA THERINE (relenting). Ah! (Stretches her hand affectionately across the table to
squeeze his.)
PETKOFF. And how have you been, my dear?

11:07 PM Sun 12 Dec ~ @ 76% 1• I•

---- ------·, -··· --·· --·-- ·· --- -··· --- ------o o-··-,
and a colored handkerchief tied over her thick black
24of 70 hair, with Turkish slippers on her bare feet, comes from
the house, looking astonishjggjy ..b,a.nd§.ome ~d.J.t11tel
under all the circumstances. Louka goes into the house.)
CA THERJNE. My dear Paul, what a surprise for us. (She stoops over the back of
his chair to kiss him.) Have they brought you fresh coffee?
PETKOFF. Yes, Louka's been looking after me. The war's over. The ~reaty was
signed three days ago at Bucharest; and the decree for our army to demobilize
was issued yesterday.
Catherine is shocked and ottended when Petkott

reveals that the Bulgarians and Russian have
brokered a peace with the Serbs, instead of
vanquishing them without condition.
CA THERINE (springing erect, with flashi

the Austrians force you to make pea1
PETK.Qfl (submissively). !My dear: the,-.~----~···- ·~~--¥--~·~~"'"'~ ..

its down and turns away from him.) But of course we saw to it that the trea
as an honorable one. It declares
CATHERINE (outraged). Peace!
PETKOFF (appeasing her).-but not friendly relations: remember that. They

wanted to put that in; but I insisted on its being struck out. What more could I
do?
CA THERJNE. You could have annexed Servia and made Prince Alexander
Emperor of the Balkans. That's what 1 would have done.
PETKOFF. 1 don't doubt it in the least, my dear. But I should have had to subdue the
whole Austrian Empire first; and that would have kept me too long away from
you. I missed you greatly.
CA THERINE (relenting). Ah! (Stretches her hand affectionately across the table to
squeeze bis.)
PETKOFF. And how have you been, my dear?

11:06 PM Sun 12 Dec ~ @ 76% 1• I•
22 of 70
like of you and me when we try to rise out of our poverty against them. (He
goes close to her and lowers his voice.) Look at me, ten years in their service.
Do you think I know no secrets? 1 know things about the mistress that she
wouldn't have the master know for a thousand levas. I know things about him
-
that she wouldn't let him bear the last of for six months if 1 blabbed them to
her. I know things about Raina that would break off her match with Sergius
if-
LOUKA (turning on him quickly). How do you know? I never told you!
NICOLA (opening his eyes cunningly). So that's your little secret, is it? l thought it
might be something like that, Wei I, you take my advice, and be respectful; and
make the mistress feel that no matter what you know or don't know, they can
depend on you to hold your tongue and serve the family faithfully. That's what
they like; and that's how you'll make most out of them.
LOUKA (with searching scorn). You have the soul ofa servant, Nicola.
lCOLA (complacently). Yes: that's the secret of success in service.
(A loud knocking with a wb II means that her poor birth and class wont be
outside on the left, is heard.' the same and the upper class will not define her
MALE VOICE OUTSIDE. Hollo! Hollo
LOUKA. Master! back from the war!
NICOLA (quickly). My word for it, Lo :t

some fresh coffee. (He runs out into
LOUKA (as sh£_Q_uts the coffe(Ll)__ot and the cups upon the tra'J, 'and carries it into the
house). jy ou'II never put the soul of a servant into me.
(Major Petkoff comes from the stable yard, followed by

Nicola. He is a cheerful, excitable, insignificant
unpolished man of about 50, naturally unambitious
except as to bis income and his importance in local
ociety, but just now greatly pleased with the military
rank which the war has thrust on him as a man of
consequence in his town. The fever of plucky patriotism
which the Serviao attack roused in all the Bulgarians
11:06 PM Sun 12 Dec ~ @ 76% 1• I•
22 of 70
like of you and me when we try to rise out of our poverty against them. (He
goes close to her and lowers his voice.) Look at me, ten years in their service.
Do you think I know no secrets? 1 know things about the mistress that she
wouldn't have the master know for a thousand levas. I know things about him
-
that she wouldn't let him bear the last of for six months if 1 blabbed them to
her. I know things about Raina that would break off her match with Sergius
if-
LOUKA (turning on him quickly). How do you know? I never told you!
NICOLA (opening his eyes cunningly). So that's your little secret, is it? l thought it
might be something like that, Wei I, you take my advice, and be respectful; and
make the mistress feel that no matter what you know or don't know, they can
depend on you to hold your tongue and serve the family faithfully. That's what
they like; and that's how you'll make most out of them.
LOUKA (with searching scorn). You have the soul ofa servant, Nicola.
lCOLA (complacently). Yes: that's the secret of success in service.
(A loud knocking with a wb II means that her poor birth and class wont be
outside on the left, is heard.' the same and the upper class will not define her
MALE VOICE OUTSIDE. Hollo! Hollo
LOUKA. Master! back from the war!
NICOLA (quickly). My word for it, Lo :t

some fresh coffee. (He runs out into
LOUKA (as sh£_Q_uts the coffe(Ll)__ot and the cups upon the tra'J, 'and carries it into the
house). jy ou'II never put the soul of a servant into me.
(Major Petkoff comes from the stable yard, followed by

Nicola. He is a cheerful, excitable, insignificant
unpolished man of about 50, naturally unambitious
except as to bis income and his importance in local
ociety, but just now greatly pleased with the military
rank which the war has thrust on him as a man of
consequence in his town. The fever of plucky patriotism
which the Serviao attack roused in all the Bulgarians
11:07 PM sun 12 d'JilTKOFF. There's Sergius. (Shouting.) Hollo, Nicola! ~© 76%(•)•
CATHERrNE. Oh, don't shout, Paul: it really isn't nice.

26 of 70
PETKQ!:E You must talk to him, my dear, until Raina takes him off our hands. H
ores my life out about our not P.romoting him-over my head, mind you.I
Petkoff seems to have known that Sergius is

incompetent as far as military issues are
concerned. because the his cavalry charge was
successful, it was foolish and out of military
etiquette.
when he marries Raina Besides,

ne native general.
ETK.QFFJ Yes, so that he could throw away whole brigades instead of regiments.
It's no use, my dear: be has not the slightest chance of promotion until we are
quite sure that the peace will be a lasting one.
NICOLA (at the gate, announcing). Major Sergius Saranoffl (He goes into the house
and returns presently with a third chair, which he places at the table. He then
withdraws.)
-
Major Sergius Saranoff, the original of the portrait in
Raina's room, is a tall, romantically handsome man
marked projections at the outer comers, bis jealously
. ~ ..
n.os PM Sun 12 Dec ~© 76%(•)•
28 of 70
Sergius's arrogant decision of resignation turns

to be ironic and comedic because the audience
and readers know well that he is clumsy, inept
and inappropriate
SERGIUS (with resolute, measured emp
PETKOFF (vexed). Now who could h~ a

thing?
SERGIUS (with fire). Everyone that knew me. But enough of myself and my affairs.
How is Raina; and where is Raina?
RAINA (suddenly coming round the comer of the house and standing at the top of
the steps in the path). Raina is here. (She makes a charming picture as they all
turn to look at her. She wears an underdress of pale green silk, draped with an
overdress of thin ec111 canvas embroidered with gold. On ber head she wears a
pretty Phrygian cap of gold tinsel. Sergius, with an exclamation of pleasure,
goes impulsively to meet her. She stretches out her hand: he drop
chivalrously on one knee and kisses it.)
PETKOFF (aside to Catherine, beaming with parental pride). Pretty, isn't it? She
always appears at the right moment.
CA THERINE (impatiently). Yes: she listens for it. It is an abominable habit.
(Sergius leads Raina forward with splendid gallantry, a

if she were a queen. When they come to the table, she
turns to him with a bend of the bead; be bows; and thus
they separate, he coming to his place, and she going
behind her father's chair.)
RAINA (stooping and kissing her fatber). Dear father! Welcome home!
PETKOFF (patting her cheek). My little pet girl. (He kisses her; she goes to the
cbair left by Nicola for Sergius, and sits down.)
CATHERINc And so you're no longer a soldier, Sergius.

r-
lSERGIUS. I am no longer a soldier. Soldiering, my dear madam, is the coward's art
of attacking mercilessly when you are strong, and keeping out of harm's way
when you are weak. That is the whole secret of successful fighting. Get your
enemy at a disadvantage; and never, on any account, fight him on equal terms.
Eh, Major!
n.os PM Sun 12 Dec ~© 76%(•)•
31 of 70
CATHERJNE (stopping him playfully). You stay here, my dear Sergius: there's no
hurry. l have a word or two to say to Paul. (Sergius instantly bows and step
back.) Now, dear (taking Pelkoff's arm), come and see the electric bell.
PETKOFF. Oh, very well, very well. (They go into the house together
affectionately. Sergius, left alone with Raina, looks anxiously at her, fearing
that she may be still offended. She smiles, and stretches out her arms to him.)
(Exit R. into house, followed by Catherine.)
SERGIUS (hastening to her, but refraining from touching her without express
permission). Am I forgiven?
RAINA (placing her hands on his shoul •.•... , as she looks up at him with admiration
and worship). ~y hero! My
kini'
SERGIUS. My queen! (He kisses her on the forehead with holy awe.)
RAINA. How 1 have envied you, Sergius Whal Sergius has made-deeds mean cavalry
charge are mere foolish and reckless and hence
field of battle, able to prove yourseU ii is humorous to be proud of them before Rain
whilst l have bad to sit at home inac who knows his real act.
that could give me the right to call n:
SERGIUS. Dearest, all my deeds have b

~ough the war Like a knight in a to1
RAlNA. And you have never been absen, ~v·~ ~J =v-0 ••• ~ •v• - ..-v ••• -.•.. , . -·i
solemnly.) Sergius: I think we two have found the higher love. When I think of
you, I feel that [ could never do a base deed, or think an ignoble thought.
SERGIUS. My lady, and my saint! (Clasping her reverently.)
RAINA (returning his embrace). My lord and my g-
SERGIUS. Sh-sh! Let me be the worshipper, dear. You little know how unworthy
even the best man is of a girl's pure passion!
RA1NA. I trust you. I love you. You will never disappoint me, Sergius. (Louka i
heard singing within the house. They quickly release each other.) I-lush! I can't
pretend to talk indifferently before her: my heart is too full. (Louka comes
from the house with her tray. She goes to the table, and begins to clear it, with

Unmistaj: True. (He

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11:10 PM Sun 12 Dec ~ @ 76% 1• I•

Done Arms_and_the_Man_Text - Copy.pdf

LOUKA (surprised). His bag? -

BLUNTSCHLl (disappointed, but philosophical). Al once, gracious lady. I only

BLUNTSCHLL But my bag?

CATHERINE. It will be sent on. You will leave me your address.

Done Arms_and_the_Man_Text - Copy.pdf

CATHERINE (flaming). A Servian! How dare he-(Checking herself bitterly.) Oh,

LOVKA. But he asks for yo 10 you are: he

LOUKA. Swiss, madam, I think.

LOUKA (timidly). He has a big carpet bag. madam.

LOUKA. Yes, madam.

CATHERCNE (decisively). Bring the gentleman out here at once. (lmperatively.)

LOVKA. Yes, madam. (Going.)

LOVKA (stopping). Yes, madam.

Done Arms_and_the_Man_Text - Copy.pdf

SERGIUS. Who is my rival?

LOlJK6,.J don't know. I never saw him.

SERGIUS namnation! How dare you?

SERGIUS. Now listen you to me!

LOUKA (wincing). Not so tight: you're hurting me!

LOUKA (writhing). Please-

Done Arms_and_the_Man_Text - Copy.pdf

SERGIUS. Who is my rival?

Louka is very allentive person : she saw the true

aw him. I only heard his voice through the door of

SERGIUS i-)amnation! How dare you?

SERGIUS. Now listen you to me!

LOUKA (wincing). Not so tight: you're hurting me!

LOUKA (writhing). Please-

Done Arms_and_the_Man_Text - Copy.pdf

Sergius lashes out at Louka and insulting her

SERGfJ.JS. That shews that you are an ab

SERGIUS (sobered by her tone). How?

Done Arms_and_the_Man_Text - Copy.pdf

SERGIUS (cbanned). Witty as well as pretty. (He tries to kiss her.)

LOU.KA. It shews bow little you really ca:

SERGI\LS (dropping his familiarity and

Done Arms_and_the_Man_Text - Copy.pdf

LOVKA (astonished). No, sir.

SERGIUS (taking her band). Thank you, Louka.

LOVK.A. Let me go, ~ir. _ , holds her

SERGIUS (looking straight into her eyes). No.

Done Arms_and_the_Man_Text - Copy.pdf

LOVKA (astonished). No, sir.

SERGIUS (taking her band). Thank you, I-··'--

SERGIUS (looking straight into her eyes). No.

SERGIUS. He was like a commercial traveller in uniform. Bourgeois to his boots.

RAJNA (rising with marked stateliot Ja..- .:>~,

CATHERINE (also rising)JShe is ri

PETKOFF. Pooh! nonsense! what does it matter?

CATHERINE (also rising)_JShe is ri~

PETKOFF. Pooh! nonsense! what does it r,,u •• ~•.

There is a striking feature in this play.which is the

Bulgarian lady. The,:i'.oung lapy wa:

CATHERINE (also rising)..,_,She is ri gb_t, Sergius. If such women exist, we should b

PETKOFF. Pooh! nonsense! what does it matter?

PETKOFF. Here already, Sergius. Glad to see you!

CATHERINE. My dear Sergius!(She holds out both her hands.)

CATHERINE. You look superb-splendid. The campaign has improved you.

CA THERJNC How so?

SERGlUS. ~tis too late. I have only wai

PETKOFF (dropping bis cup in his amaz