Please handle this volume with care. The University of Connecticut Libraries, Storrs mus, stx ML 50.P965M22 1906 Madam Butterfly : 3 1153 0Qa3fl55fl 7 tt vn O On vn M 1- MADAM BUTTERFLY A JAPANESE TRAGEDY Founded on the book by John L. Long and the drama by David Belasco Italian Libretto by L. ILLICA and Q. QIACOSA English Version by R. H. ELKI N Music by Q. PUCCINI Price 25 cts. net G. RICORDI & COMPANY 14 EAST 43rd STREET, NEW YORK ITALIAN TEXT-COPYRIGHT 1904, By G. RICORDI 6/ CO. ENGLISH TEXT-COPYRIGHT 1906. By G. RICORDI y CO. MUSIC LIBRARY UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT STORRS, CONNECTICUT Characters MADAM BUTTERFLY {Cho-Cho-San) - . - Soprano SUZUKI {Cho-Cho-San s Servant) - - - Mezzo-Soprano KATE PINKERTON Mezzo-Soprano B. F. PINKERTON {Lieutenant in the United States Navy) Tenor SRARPLESS {UniteJ States Consu/ at Nagasaki) - Baritone GORO {a Marriage Broker) Tenor PRINCE YAMADORI - THE BONZE {Cho-Cho-San's Uncle) YAKUSIDE THE IMPERIAL COMMISSIONER THE OFFICIAL REGISTRAR - CHO-CHO-SAN'S MOTHER THE AUNT THE COUSIN TROUBLE {Cho-Cho-San' s Child) Baritone - Bass Baritone - Bass Baritone Mezzo- Sopra no S:S? Mezzo-Soprano \ \ 2 Soprano Cho-Cho-San's Relations and Friends. Servants. At Nagasaki. Present Day All rights of printing ^ copying^ performance, translation, vocal or instrumental arrangements^ etc.y of this opera are strictly reserved. ARGUMENT ACT I. LmuTfiNANT B, F. PiNKERTON, of the United States Navy, is about to contract a " Japanese Marriage" with Cho-Cho-San, known among her friends as Butterfly. When the curtain rises he is being shown over the Httle house on the hill, which he has leased at Nagaski and is about to occupy with his Japanese wife. GoRO, the nakodo or marriage broker, who has arranged the match, has also found him the house and is enjoy- ing PiNKERTON's surprise and pleasure at the ingenious contrivances of the building. Pinkerton is then introduced to the three Japanese ser- vants, one of whom is SusuKi. Butterfly's faithful maid. His friend Sharpless, the American Consul, arrives, and the two men settle down to an intimate chat. Sharpless looks upon Pinkerton's projected alliance with disfavour, and begs him to reflect before taking the step. He urges that what is a mere pastime to Pinkerton may be a very serious matter— a matter of life or death— to the Japanese girl. Pink- erton laughs at his friend's apprehmsions, and their discussion is inter- rupted by the arrival of the bride and her friends. Greetings are inter- changed; Sharpless takes the opportunity of getting into conversation with Butterfly and is more than ev^-r convinced that she is taking her marriage very seriously. That his misgivings are not groundless is soon proved, for in a pretty interview with Pinkerton, Butterfly confides to him that she has, secretly and quite unknown to her relations, re- nounced her faith, the faith of her forefathers, before entering on' her new life with him; a step which means cutting herself adiift from all her old associations and belongings, and entrusting her future entirely to her husband. The relations arrive, together with the Japanese officials, and the marriage contract is signed with due ct>remony. While the guests are joyfully drinking the newly-wedded pair's health, a weird figure suddenly appears on the scene, shouting and cursing wildly. It is Butterfly's uncle, the Bonze (Japanese priest), who has discovered her renunciation of faith and has come to curse her for it. He insists on all her relations, including her mother, renouncing her forever; whereupon Pinkerton', annoyed at the disturbance, turns the whole lot out of his house, and' they depart, shaking the air with their imprecations. Butterfly is left weeping bitterly, and Pinkerton proceeds to comfort his poor litt e Japanese wife. He soon woos her back to smiles and happiness, and a passionate love scene follows. And so we leave this strangely-assorted pair on the threshold of their life together. ACT H.— Parti. Three years have passed. Pinkerton has long since been recalled to America, promising his little wife to return to her *♦ when the robins nest." The curtain rises on a sadder and wiser Suzuki, praying against all conviction for Pinkerton's return, and on a faithful, ever-trusting, never-doubting Butterfly. She declines to listen to Suzuki's misgiv- ings : "'Tis faith you are lacking!" she says, and in most touching language she draws a vivid picture of Pinkerton's speedy return: ' • This will all come to pass just as tell you. Banish your idle fears, for he'll i-eturn, I know it ! " She is interrupted by a visit from the Consul Sharpless, who has been entrusted by Pinkerton with a very cruel task, viz., to break to Butterfly the news that he is returning to Nagasaki, but that he is now married— really married this time!— to an American wife. But with the best intentions, Sharpless is unable to deliver his message. The very sight of a letter from Pinkerton throws Butterfly into such a transport of excitement and joy that she is unable to listen to its con- tents. He has written, he has remembered her, and of course he must be returning! Then they are disturbed by a visit from Tamadori. a wealthy Japanese suitor, whom GORO is urging Butterfly to marry. She is very indignant. " How can I marry him?" she protests, "when I am already married?" And when GoRO and Sharpless, appalled at her blindless, suggests that Pinkerton's desertion of her constitutes divorce, she proudly tells them: " That may be Japanese law, but not the law of my country, America!" It is a hopeless task to try and undeceive a. faith such as hers. After Yamadori has taken his departure, Sharp- less makes one more attempt to open her eyes to the truth, but she silences him once for all by fetching in her baby boy, a blue-eyed, fair- haired replica of PiNKERTON. "Look," she says, with maternal pride, "can such as this well be forgotten? When Pinkerton hears what a fine son is waiting for him, will he not hasten back to Japan?" And the poor Consul has reluctantly to take his leave without having achieved his mission. He has hardly gone before the harbour cannons announce the arrival of a man-of-war. Their eyes dim with happy tears, their hands shaking with excitement so that they can hardly hold the telescope. Butterfly and Suzuki discover it is Pinkerton's ship, the Abraham Lincoln! Now Butterfly's transports know no bounds. She has proved herself ritjht! Her faith is rewarded! Her husband is returning to her! She and Suzuki decorate the little home with flowers until it is a very bower. She and the baby are adorned in their very best, and then she stations herself, Suzuki and the baby in front, of three holes she has pierced in the Shosi, there to watch for Pinkerton's arrival. As nijiht falls, Suzuki and the baby drop off to sleep. The curtain falls on the pathetic picture of Butterfly, rijiid and motionless, waiting and watch- ing in unshaken faith for the return of the husband who has forsaken her. . . . ACT n.— Part 2. . . . The weary night has passed, and the breaking dawn discovers Suzuki and the baby fast asleep while Butterfly still stands waiting, watching. The sunshine awakes Suzuki, who persuades Butterfly lo go and rest, promising to call her as soon as Pinkerton arrives. Hardly has Butterfly gone up with her baby than Pinkerton and Sharpless appear on the scene. Suzuki's joyful surprise is soon changed to consternation when she finds that Pinkerton is accompanied liy a strange lady — his wife! Plnkerton, surrounded by proofs of But- terfly's unbroken faith and devotion, now at last realizes the truth of tlie Consul's warnings and the heartliness of his own conduct. Over- tome by remorse and the anguish of the situation, he rnshes away, leaving Sharpless to arrange things as best he can. The Con.«;ul has hard work to pacify Suzuki. At last he persuades her to break the news to her poor little mistress and to try and induce her to give up her baby to Mrs. Pinkerton, who will bestow a mother's care on it. Before Suzuki has time to prevent her. Butterfly comes down, radiantly expecting to find her husband, and in a scene, the pathos of which can- not well be surpassed, she learns the terrible truth. She bears the blow with a gentle dignity more touching than any lamentation. She even wishes the "real American wife" every happiness, and sends Pinker- ton a message that she herself will " find peace," and that he shall have his son if he will come and fetch him himself in half an hour's time. And then Sharpless and Mrs. Pinkerton withdraw and kave the poor little girl alone with her broken heart. But when, in half an hour's time, Pinkerton and Sharpless return to keep their appointment, the faithful little broken heart has ceased to beat. Butterfly has killed hersel" with her father's sword, the blade of whi^h bears the insci iption: " To die with honour When one can no longer live with honour." R. H. ELKIN. ACT I. Hill near Nagasaki* A Japanese house, terrace and garden. Below, in the background, the bay, the harbour and the town of Nagasaki. Pinkcfton and Goro. Goro is showing Pinkerton over the house. Pinkerton passes from one surprise to another. Pinkerton And the walls — and the ceiling — GOKO (enjoying his surprise) They will come and will go, Just as it may suit your fancy To exchange or to vary New and old in the same surroundings. Pinkerton (looking around) The marriage-chamber, Where is it ? Goro (pointing in two directions) Here, or there ! — according- MADAM BUTTERFLY PlliTKERTON A wonderful contrivance ! The hall? GORO (showing the terrace) Behold ! PiNKERTON (amazed) In the open? GoRO (making a partition slide out) A wall slides outward- Pi nkerton I see now 1 Another — Goro Runs along 1 PiNKERTON And so the fairy dwelling — Goro Springs like a tow'r from nowhere, Complete from base to attic ! — PiNKERTON It comes and goes by magic ! Goro tolape his hand loudly twice: enter two men and a woman, who go down on their hands and knees in front of Pinkerton) • This is the trusty handmaid, Who waits upon your wife, Faithful and devoted. The cook — the servant. They're embarrass'd At such great honour. Pinkerton Their names ? ACT ONE GORO (introducing tiiem) " Miss Gentle- Breeze-of- Morning. liay-of-the-golden-sun.— Sweet-scented-pine-tree:'* PiNKEETON Foolishly chosen nicknames ! I will call them: scarecrows ! (pointing to them one by one) ^ Scarecrow first; scarecrow second; and scarecrow third ! Suzuki (grown bolder) Yonr Honour deigns to smile ? Your smile is fair as flowers. Thus spake the wise Ocunama: A smile conquers all, and defies Ev'ry trouble. Pearls may be won by smiling bmiles can ope the portals Of Paradise. The Perfume of the Gods— The Fountain of Life— (Goro, perceiving that Pinkerton begins to be bored at Sn^nH'c i^^, ■* tSrice. The three rise and qnilkly disappear fnto the house) '"^"^^''J'' '''^ps his hands Pinkerton When they begin to talk, Alike I find all women. (to Goro who has gone to the bacli to look oat) Why look you ? Goro Watching for the bride's arrival. Pinkerton All is ready ? Goro Ev'ry detail. Pinkerton Fou shining light of brokers I Madam butterfly GORO (thanks with a deep bow) There will come: the official registrar, The relations, your country's Consul, Your future wife. Here you'll sign the contract, And solomnize the marriage. PiNKERTON Are there many relations ? GoRO Her mother, grandam, and the Bonze, her uncle, (Who'll scarcely honour us with his appearance) Her cousins, male and female — Of ancessors I reckon, and other blood relations, A round two dozen. As to the descendents — (with obsequious presumption) That may be left, I reckon. To your Honour and the fair Butterfly — (the voice of the Consul Sharpless, who is climbing the hill, is hearcU The Voice of Sharpless (rather far off) A plague on this steep ascent ! Stumbling, and spluttering — GoRo (who has run to the back, announces) Here comes the Consul. Sharpless (enters, quite out of breath. Goro bows low before him) Ah ! the scramble up Has left me breathless ! PiNKERTON (goes to meet the Consul: they shake hands) Good-day, friend! Welcome! Sharpless Oughl ACT osm PiNKERTON Quickly, Goro, ]3'etch some refreshments. (Goro hurries into the liOLC Shabpless (looking about) Lofty! PiNKEBTON (showing him the view) But lovely! Shaepless (looking at the sea and the town below) Nagasaki — the ocean— The harbor — PiNKERTON (pointing to the house) This is a dwelling Which is managed by magic. Sharpless Yours ? Pinkerton I bought this house For nine hundred and ninety-nine years, But with the option, at every month, To cancel the contract! I must say, in this country The houses and the contracts are elastic! Sharpless The man of bus'ness profits by it. (Goro comes bustling out of the house, followed by the two eerrants. They bring glasses, bottles and two wipker lounges; place the glasses and bottles on a small table, and retorn p the hogse) PlNKERTON (Inyiting him to be seated) Surely. The whole world over, On bus'ness and pleasure bent YJie Yankee jtrav^lS; all dangers scorning. 10 MADAM BUTTERFLY His anchor boldly lie casts at random — Until a sudden squall — (breaking off to offer Sharplesa a drink) Milk punch or whisky ? (resuming) — ^Upsets bis ship, then up go sails and rigging j And life is not worth living If he can't win the best And fairest of each country, The heart of each fair maid! Sharpless That's an easy-going gospel Which makes life very pleasant. But is fatal in the end — PiNKERTON (continuing) Fate cannot crush him, he tries again undaunted. No one and nothing Breaks his plucky spirit. And so I'm marrying in Japanese fashion. Tied for nine hundred And ninety-nine years, Free, though, to annul the marriage monthly. *' America for ever! " Sharpless Is the bride very pretty ? GoRO (who has overheard, approaches the terrace officioosly) Fair as a garland Of fragrant flowers! Brighter Than a star in the heavens! And for nothing: one hundred Yen. (to the Consul) If your Augustness will entrust me, I have a fine selection ? (the Consul langhingly declines) ACT ONE 11 PiNKERTON (very impatiently) Go and fetch her, Goro. (Goto run8 to the back and disappears down the hill) Sharpless What folly has seized you! D' you think you are Intoxicated ? PiNKERTON (rises impatiently. Sharpless rises also) Maybe! Depends On what you call intoxication! Is't love or fancy, maid or myth — I cannot tell you — all that I know is She, with her innocent charm, has entranc'd me. Almost transparently fragile and slender, Dainty in stature, quaint little figure, Seems to have stepped down Straight from a screen, — But from her background of varnish and lacquer — Suddenly, light as a feather she flutters, And, like a butterfly, hovers and settles. With so much charm and such seductive graces. That to pursue her a wild wish seized me — Though in the quest her frail wings should be broken. Sharpless (seriously and kindly) The other day, she came up To call at the Consulate! I did not see her, but I heard her speak. And the mystery of her voice Touched my very soul. Surely love that is pure and true speaks like that. It were indeed sad pity To tear those dainty wings, And perchance to torment a trusting heart. No cry of anguish should e'er be uttered By that gentle and trusting little voice. 12 MADAM BUTTEKFLY PiNKERTON Dearly beloved Consul, Allay your fears! We know Men of your age look on life with mournful eyes. No harm I reckon these wings to raise, And guide them to the tender flights of love! (offers him more drink) Whisky ? Sharpless Yes, mix me another. (Pinkerton fills up his own glass as well) Here's to your friends and relations at home. Pinkerton (raising his glass) And to the day on which I'll wed In real marriage — a real American wife! GORO (reappears rnnning breathlessly np the hill) See them! they've climbed the summit of the hill! (pointing towards the path) A crowd of women hustling, Like the wind in branches rustling, Here they come bustling (The confused and lively hubbub of many voices is heard from the path. Pinkerton and Sharpless retire to the back of the garden, watching the path on the hill) Butterfly's Voice There's one step more to climb. Other Voices. How long you tarry — here is the summit — One moment look, oh look ! Butterfly's Voice Across the earth and o'er the ocean Balmy breeze and scent of Spring are blowing- I am the happiest maiden, The happiest in Japan — In all the world. ACT ONE 13 From ev'ry nook and corner The city sends me greeting With a thousand voices. Friends, I have obeyed The summons of love, Upon the threshold standing. Where all the glory awaits me, That life or death can oflPer. Hee Girl Friends The best of luck attend you, Gentle maiden, but ere You cross the threshold which invites you, Turn and admire the things you hold so dear. What lovely flow'rs ! what lovely sky, and lovely sea ! Sharpless O happy prattle, careless days of youth ! (Butterfly and her girl friends appear on the brow of the hill. They will carrv large briBhtlv coloured eunshadee, open) j s ""gnuj Butterfly We're there now. (she sees the three men standing together and recognizes Pinkerton. She promotlv closes her sunshade and introduces Pinkerton to her friends) «- f j B. F. Pinkerton. Down. (goes down on her knees) The Girl Friends (close their sunshades and go on their knees) Down. (then they all rise and ceremoneouBly approach Pinkerton) Butterfly Augustly welcome — The Girl Friends Hail, most mighty ! Pinkerton (smiling) The ascent Is rather trying ? 14 I.IADAM BUTTERFLY Butterfly (meaeuredly) Not so trying To a bride As are the weary hours Of waiting. PiNKEETON (rather sarcastically) What a pretty Compliment ! BUTTEEFLY (ingenuously) I know better ones Than that— PiNKEETON (good humouredly) Gems, I doubt not ! Butterfly (anxioas to show off her stock of compUmentfl) It you care for some At present . . . PiNKEETON (gently) Thank you — no. Shaepless (after scanning the group of maidens with curiosity, approaches Butterfly, who listens to him attentively) Miss " Butterfly " — How pretty ! — Your name Was well chosen. Are you from Nagasaki ? BuTTEEFLY Sir, I am. My people Were formerly wealthy. (to her friends^ Say 80 1 Hbe Gibl Friends (assenting with amcrity) It is so I ACT ONE 15 BUTTEEFLY There's no one cares to own he was born in poverty ; Is not ev'ry vagrant, when you listen to his tale, Of ancient lineage ? But yet indeed I have known riches. But the strongest oak Must fall when the storm- wind wrecks the forest. ^ And we had to go as geishas, to earn our living. (to her friends) Say SO ! The Friends (corroborating) Truly ! Butterfly I frankly own it, And don't blush for it. (seeing that Sliarpleus smiles) You're laughing ? And why ? That's how the world runs I PiNKERTON (has listened with interest and turns to Sharpless) (With her innocent baby-face, she sets my heart throbbing.) Sharpless (he also is interested in Butterfly's prattle, and continues to question her. And have you no sisters ? Butterfly None, Augustness. I've my mother. GORO (importantly) A most notable lady. Butterfly But througb no fault whatever, Dreadfully poor is she. Sharpless And where's your father ? Butterfly (stops short in eorpriae, then anewers very ahortly :> Dead! 16 MADAM BUTTERFLY (The friends then hang their heads. Goro is embarrassed. They all fan themselTea nervously —then Butterfly, to break the painful silence, turns to Pinkerton) But I've other relations : I've one uncle, the Bonze, ' PlNKERTOX (with exaggerated surprise) Never! The Friends A miracle of wisdom ! GoRO Of eloquence a fountain ! Pinkerton Thank you, thank you, kind fate ! Butterfly And yet another uncle, But that one's — The Friends A good-for-nothing ! Butterfly (Kind-heartedly trying to hush them) He's just a little wanting. The Friends An everlasting tippler. Pinkerton One thinker — and one drinker ^ They make a pretty couple. Butterfly (mortified) You are not angry ? Pinkerton Not I! J do not pare ^ jot I ACT ONE 17 Shapeless (to Butterfly) What might your age be ? Butterfly (with almost childish coquetry) Now try to guess it ! PiNKERTON Ten years. Butterfly Guess higher. Sharpless Twenty. Butterfly Guess lower. Fifteen, exactly fifteen ! I am old, am I not ? Shapless Fifteen years old ! The age Of playthings — PiNKERTON And of sweetmeats ! (To Goro, who claps his hands, summoning the three servants, who come running out from the house : Goro gives them the orders which he takes from Pinkerton) Call my scarecrows to hand round Candied flies and spiders, Preserves and pastry, and all Sorts of curious liquors. And most peculiar delicacies They fancy in Japan. (Goro ig just about to follow the servants into the house, when he perceives more people cl.mbine: the hill ; he goes to look, then runs to announce the new arrivals to Pinkerton and to Sharpless :) GoRO (importantly) The august High Commiss'ner — The official Registrar — the relations. PiNKERTOlf (to Goro) Come now, hnrrj, i.Qoro row \nU) th? Jjow) / l8 MADAM BUTTERFLY (From the path in the background Butterfly's relations are seen climbing the hill and passing along : Butterfly and her friends go to meet them, bowing and kow-towing : the relatives stare curiously as the two Americans, askin? Butterfly for explanations. Last of all arrive the Imperial Commissioner and the oflicial Registrar, who remain in the background. Pink- erton has taken Sharptess by the arm and leading him to ouj side, laughingly makes him look at the quaint group of relations) PiNKEBTON What farce is this procession Of my worthy new relations, Held on terms of monthly contract !- I feel sure that there behind the Mighty fan of peacock's feathers My raoth'r-in-law is hiding. — And that shabby-looking ninny, Jumping like a frog in action, Is the mad and boozy uncle 1 Then there's even a small urchin, Shining, yellow, and all greasy. Look at them, intently chatting, Trying to kow-tow before me. Sharplkss (to Pinkerton) Oh, trebly luckly Pinkerton, Since Fate has let you gather A flower hardly open'd ! I have ne er seen fairer Nor sweeter maiden than This little Butterfly. How exciting ! Be prudent ! Or this pseudo-marriage Will lead you into trouble. Do not look on this contract. And on her faith as pastime — I warn you ! For she trusts yon, (poJBts to Butterflj) ACT ONE 19 Some of the Relations (with great curiosity, to Butterfly) Where is he ? Where ? Butterfly (pointing to Pinkerton) That is he — there ! First Cousin To tell the truth, Handsome he's not — Butterfly (offended; Handsomer man Y'on never saw — Not in your dreams. Butterfly's Mother Z think him fine ! The Uncle He's worth a lot ! First Cousin Why, Goro offered him to me, But I said no ! Butterfly (contemptuously) To you, my dear ! Some Male and Female Friends Because on her His choice did fall. She would look down Upon us all I Some other Girl Friends I think her beauty's On the wane. Male and Female Cousins She'll be divorc'd ! 20 MADAM BUTTEKFLT Others I hope she may, GOEO For goodness sake Be silent now — Where did you get Your manners from ? Butteeflt's Mother and a pew Cousins Why, that one there Won't let her be. GORO The more fools you To bring her here. The Uncle Is there no wine ? The Mother and the Aunt Let's look about. Some Friends I've just seen some, The hue of tea — And crimson too ! The Uncle I'd like a drink I The Child And sweetmeats. His Mother Yes. The Child (capering for joy) Hurrah ! Hurrah 1 Butterfly Mother, come here> ACT ONE 21 (to the others) Listen to me : All of you, look, One— two — three — All of you: down ! (They all bow low before Pinkerton) fMeanwhile Gore has made the servants bring out some sm-11 tables, on which they pl"ce a vadetv of cakes, ^eetmeats, liquors, wines and tea-sets. They set some cushions and TZ7\l table wih writing-materials apart. The friends and relations evince great satis- facUon at the refreshments. Butterfly presents her relations to Pinkerton) BUTTEEFLT My mother — PllSTKERTON Most charmed to meet you. The Mother Your Augustness dazzles me with fairness. Butterfly My cousin and her son — Pinkerton (giving the child a playful smack ; the latter draws back timidly) He bids fair to grow sturdy ! The Cousin (bowing with much ceremony) Your Augustness ! Butterfly My uncle Yakuside. Pinkerton Ib that he ? Ha ! Ha ! Yakuside Your antecedents shall live for ever I Some Relations May the Heavens smile upon thee I Others May your path be strewn with roses 1 22 MADAM BUTTERFLY PiNKEETON (thanks them all, and to get rid of them, shows them the delicacies spread oat; then he turns to Sharpless) Lord, what foolish people ! (The Friends and Relations rush to the tables ; the servants hand round saki, sweets, pastry, wine and liquors; lively ejaculations of the guests. Butterfly seats her Mother and her Cousin close to her, and tries to restrain their greediness) (Goro accompanies the Consul, the Commissioner and the Registrar to the table with writing materials. The Consul examines the papers and gets the bond ready. Pinkerton draws near to Butterfly and gently offers her some sweets) Here's to our love ! (seeing that Butterfly appears embarrassed) What, don't you like the sweetmeats ? Butterfly Mr. B. F. Pinkerton, forgive me — (shows her hands and arms, which are encumbered by stuffed-out sleeves) I should like — a young girl's few possessions — Pinkerton But where are they ? Butterfly (pointing to her sleeves) They are here — are you angry ? ACT ONE 23 PiNKBRTON (rather astonished, smiles— then quickly and gallantly reassures her) Nay, angry, Why, dear little Butterfly ? Butterfly (empties her si eves, placing their contents one by one on a stool) Kerchiefs — a pipe — a buckle — A colored ribbon — A mirror — and a fan — PiNKERTON (sees a jar) What is that little pot V Butterfly A little jar of paint. PiNKERTON Oh, fie ! Butterfly You mind it ? (throws it away) There i (draws out a long and narrow sheath) PiNKERTON And that thing ? Butterfly (very gravely) That I hold ra»st sacred. PiNKERTON And am I not to see it ? Butterfly (beseeching and grave) Kot here in public. Fray excuse me. (ebe Jays down ^Jje ^beatb very reverently) 24 MADAM BUTTERFLY GOEO (has meanwhile approached and whispers to Pinkerton) It was sent By the Mikado to her father, with a message — (imitating the action of suicide by hara-kiri) Pinkerton (softly to Goro) And — her father ? GoEO Was obedient. (he withdraws, mingling with the guests) Butterfly (takes some images from hex sleeves and shows them to Pinkerton) The Ottoki. Pinkerton (takes one and examines it curiously) These small figures? — Can you mean it? Butterfly The souls of my Forefathers. Pinkerton Ah! I bow before them. (he puts down the image near the others, then rises) Butterfly (leads Pinkerton on one side and says to him in respectfully confiding tones:) Hear what I would tell you : Yesterday I crept softly to the Mission: Entering on my new life I wish to adopt a new religion, No one knows what I've done, Neither friends nor relations. My fate I have to folloWj And full of humble faith, I t)OW before the God of my dear Jxis^&t^Tf Act ONE 25 For me you spent a hundred yen, But I shall try to be most frugal. And to give you more pleasure, I can almost forget my race and people. (Soes to take up the images) Away they go! (throws them down. Meanwhile, Goro has approached the Consul, and, having received his orders, thunders forth in stentorian tones:) GOEO Silence! silence! (The chattering ceases: they all leave off eating and drinking and come forward in a circle, listeuing with much interest: Pinkerton and Butterfly stand in the centre) The Imperial Commissioiser (reads) Leave is given to the undersign'd, Benjamin Franklin Pinkerton, Lieutenant, serving on the gunboat Abra'm Lincoln, of the United States Navy, Of North America; And to the spinster, known as Butterfly, Inhabitant of Omara-Nagasaki, Hitherto single, and in consequence Never divorced, To join in bonds of wedlock; to wit The former of his free accord and will, The latter with consent of her relations. Witnesses of the contract. (hands the bond for signature) 26 MADAM BUTTERFLY GOKO (with much unction) The bridegroom. (Pinkerton eigne) Now the bride. (Butterfly eigne) And all is settled. The Girl Friends (eurround Butterfly, congratulating her) Deal- Madam Butterfly, Butterfly (correcta them) Nay, Madam B. F. Pinkerton. (The Civil Regietrar withdraws the bond and informe the Commissioner that the ceremony is over) The Commissioner (taking leave of Pinkerton) The best of wishes. Pinkerton I thank you most sincerely. The Commissioner (to the Consul) May ask, are you going? Sharpless I'll go with you. The Registrar (taking leave of Pinkerton) The best of luck. Pinkerton Pm much obliged. Sharpless (shaking hands with Pinkerton) We shall meet to-morrow! Be careful! Pinkerton To-morrow, surely. ACT ONE 27 (Pinkerton accompanies the three as far as the path which leads down to the town, and waves his hand to them as they vanish from sight. They had first to pass between two flies of friends and relatives, who saluted them with many ceremonious bows. Butterfly has withdrawn close to her mother. Pinkerton retarns and is naturally anxious to get rid of the w edding guests) (Now quickly to get rid Of this little family party! How shall I do it?) This way, good uncle. (laughingly mixes some whisky for Yaknaide) Here, the stirrup-cup for you I'm mixing. Yakuside Yes, rather! let's have twenty! Pinkerton (giving him the decanter) And here's the whisky-bottle! Yakuside (sententiously) Drink up your saki, and kneel to the Almighty! Pinkerton (abont to mix some drink for Butterfly's mother) Here's some for you — Butterfly (prevents him from pouring out) No, thank you. Pinkerton (turning from one to another) And the friends And relations — take some cakes and a Glass of snerry. Yakuside (advancing eagerly) With pleasure ! The Friends (driving him away) Oh, the drunkard! Oh, the drunkard! GORO (to Pinkerton, so that he may not encourage the drunkard too mnch) Gently, sir; gently! Give him a chance, and he'd drink up the ocean* 28 MADAM BUTTERFLY PlNKERTON (to the child, giving him a lot of sweets) Your turn, young rascal; • Spread out your hands, and stuff up your sleeves With cakes and sweets and lots of pastry. (raising his own glass) Hip I Hip ! All (toasting) O Kami ! O Kami ! PiNKERTON Let's drink to the newly-married couple. All O Kami ! O Kami ! (The toasts are interrupted by strange cries from the hill; all of a sndder a weird fl^nre appears in the bjckground, at the sight of whom all are thunderstruck. It is the Booze, who comes forward in a towering rage, and, catching sight of Butterfl;. stretches out threatening hands towards her, crying:) The Bonze Cho-Cho-San ! Cho-Cho-San ! Abomination ! GORO (annoyed at the Bonze's intrusion) A plague on this intruder ! What on earth brought him hither, Of all troublesome people ? (signs to the servants to remove the tables, cushions and stools; and then prudently retires himself, grumbling furiously) All (huddling together in a corner in terrorV The Bonze, her uncle ! (Pinkerton looks at the Bonze's weird figure and laughs) The Bonze (to Butterfly, who stands isolated from the rest) What were You doing at the Mission ? PiNKERTOX What is that madman shrieking ? The Bonze Give answer, what were you doing '^ ACT OKE 39 All Give answer, Cho-Cho-San ! The Bonze How then, don't you even falter ? Are these the fruits of evil ? (shouting) She has renounced us all ! All Hou! Cho-Cho-San! The Bonze She's renounced, let me tell you. Her true religion ! All Hou ! Cho-Cho-San ! (Butterfly, overcome with ehame, hides her face in her hands) The Bonze (shouting into her face) In everlasting torment May your wicked soul perish ? .nutterfly's mother comes forward to protect h<>r, but the Bonze roughly pushes her away Pinkerton loses patience, rises and shouts to the Bonze :) Pinkerton (out of patience) Be silent now, d'you hear me ? 'A.t the Bound of Pinkerton's voice, the Bonze stops short in amazement, then with a Buddeii resolve he invites friends and relations to come away) The Bonze Come with me, all. We'll leave her. (to Butterfly) You have renounced us all — and we — All Renounce you ! Pinkerton (authoritatively) Leave this place on the instant ! Here I am master. I'll have no turmoil and no disturbance here ! 30 MADAM BUTTERFLY (All the guests, including the Bonze, depart in great haste, going down the hillside and con- tinuing to hurl threats and imprecatioDs at Butterfly. By degrees the voices die away in the distance. Butterfly, who has been standing motionless and mute with her face buried in her hands, bursts into childish tears. Evening begins to draw in gradually, then night sets in, serene and starlit) PiNKERTON (goes up to Butterfly and gently draws her hands from her face) Dearest, my dearest_, weep no more ! Let the frogs croak their loudest. Butterfly (still hears the yells of her relations and holds her ears) Hark how they yell. PiNKERTON (cheering her) All your respected tribe, And all the Bonzes in Japan, Are not worth a tear Irom those dear eyes of yours. Butterfly (smiling with childlike pleasure) Indeed ? I'll weep no more — And now I'm scarcely grieved at their desertion So sweet are your words of comfort Which fall like gentle balm on my poor heart. (stoops to kiss Pinkerton's hand) PiNKERTON (surprised at her action, gently stops her) What's this ?— My hand ? Butterfly They tell me That abroad, where the people are more cultured This is a token of the highest honour. PiNKERTON (hears a subdued murmuring) Who's murmuring in there ? ACT ONE 31 Butterfly 'Tis Suzuki who offers up Her evening prayer. PiNKERTOX (drawing her close to him) Evening is falling — Butterfly With shadows and quiet — Pinkerton You're here alone — Butterfly Alone and renounced ! They've renounced me, and yet I'm happy I Pinkerton (ha8 clapped hia hands and the servants have hastened in\ Come hither — the shosi. Butterfly (the servants close the partitions which run along the terrace, and then retire) Yes, we are all alone — The world is yonder. Pinkerton (laughing) And your uncle breathing thunder ! Butterfly (to Snznki, who has come in with the servants and is awaiting orders) Suzuki, bring my garments. ^Suzuki rummages in a lacquer trunk, whilst Pinkerton watches the servants who are changing part of the terrace into a room) Suzuki (after having given Butterfly her night-attire and a small box with toUet neceesarieB, bows low to Pinkerton) Good-night, Augustness. (Bntterfly retires to a comer, and, assisted by Suzuki, carefully performs her toilet for the night, exchanging her wedding-garment for one of pure white. Suzuki goes out. Pinker- ton, lolling on the wicker lounge, takes a cigarette and watches Butterfly, who is busy adorning herself) 32 MADAM teUtTERFLY Butterfly Pinkerton I long to be rid Just like a little squirrel Of this ponderous obi, Are all her pretty movements. A bride must be rob'd To think that pretty plaything In a garment of white. Is my wife ! my "wife ! He's peeping and smiling, Gazing upon that baby-form Conceal'd by the lattice — I scarce can find a trace Oh, could I but vanish Of womanhood, scarce enough My blushes to hide ! To raise a smile — I hear that angry voice But her charm Still shouting curses — Is so alluring, Butterfly — they've renounced her, That my heart Renounced her — still she's happy. Is beating madly. With passionate longing I Pinkerton (goes up to Butterfly, raises her gently and goes out on the terrace with her) Child, from whose eyes the witchery is shining, Now you are all my own ! You're clad all in lily-white raiment. How sweet are your tresses of brown In your snowy-white garment — Butterfly (goes down from the terrace) I am like The little Moon-Goddess, The little Moon-Goddess who comes down by night From her bridge in the star-lighted sky — PiNKERTON (following her) Bewitching all mortals — Butterfly Then she takes them And she wraps them in mantle of white, And away she bears them, to realms high above. PmSERTON But, dearest, as yet you've not told me, You've not told me yet that you love me. Do you think that my goddess Knows the words 1 am yearning to hear? ACT ONE 33 Butterfly She knows, but perhaps will not say them, For fear she may die of her love I PniTKERTON Fear not, my dearest, for love does not mean dying, But rather living ; and it Radiates happiness celestial. I see it shine, as in your eyes I'm gazing. (drawing close to her and taking her face in his hands) Butterfly (withdrawing from his ardent embrace and moving away) I used to think ; if anyone should want me — (stops short) Pinkebtow Why do you falter ? Come, end your sweet confession. Butterfly 1 used to think, if anyone should want me, Then perhaps for a time I might have married. 'Twas then that the Nakodo Came to me with your marriage offer. But, — the truth I must confess, — At the beginning, all he said was useless. A stranger from America ! A foreigner ! a barbarian ! Forgive me — I did not know — PiNKEBTON My gentle darling ! And then ? Continue. Butterfly But now, beloved ! You are the world, more than the world to me. Indeed, I liked you the very first moment That I saw you. — You're so strong, So handsome ! — Your laugh Is so open and so hearty ! The things you say are so fascinating. 34 MADAM BUTTEKFLY Now I am happy. — Ah, love me a little, Oh just a very little, As you would love a baby, 'Tis all I ask for. I come of a race Accustom'd to little ; Grateful for love that's silent. Light as a blossom, ind yet everlasting As the sky, as the fathomless ocean. PiNKERrON Give me your darling hands, that I may kiss them I (burgfs out very tenderly) My Butterfly ! — aptly your name was chosen. Gossamer creation ! — Butterfly it these words her face clouds over, aud she draws away her hands) They say that in your country If a butterfly is caught by man, He'll pierce its heart with a needle. And then leave it to perish ! PiNKERTON (gently taking her hands again and smiling) Some truth there is in that. And can you tell me why ? That you may not escape. (embracing her) See I have caught you — I hold you as you flutter — Be mine. Butterfly (throwing herself in his arms) Yes, yours for ever. PiNKEETON Come then, come then— ACT ONE 35 Butterfly (hesitating) One moment — PiNKERTON Love, what fear holds you trembling ? Have done with all misgivings. (pointing to the starlit sky) See, the night doth enfold us ! See, all the world lies sleeping ! Butterfly (enraptured) Ah ! Night of rapture ! Stars unending ! Never have I seen such glory ! Throbbing, sparkling, each star in heaven Like a fiery eye is flashing. Oh ! how kindly are the heavens ! Every star that shines afar Is gazing on us, lighting our future for us. Ah ! lovely night ! Thy perfect calm Is breathing love near and far ! — PlNKERTON (with passionate longing) Come, then, come ! — (They go into the marriage chamber) ACT II. Inside Butterfly's Little House. PART 1. Suzuki, coiled vp in front of the image of Buddha, is praying: from time to time she rings the prayer-bell. Butterfly «'•"' standing rigid and motionless near the screen. Suzuki (praying) And Izaghi and Izanami Sarundasico and Kami— (breaking off) My head is throbbing ! (rings the prayer-bell to invoke the attention of the Gods) And thou Ten-Sjoo-daj ! Gooking at Butterfly) Grant me that Butterfly Shall weep no more, no more, no more. BUTTEEFLY Lazy and idle Are the Gods of Japan. The God my husband prays to Will give an answer far more quickly To those who bow before Him. But I'm afraid He knows not That here we are dwelling. (remains pensive, then she turns to Suzuki, who has risen to her feet and has drawn back the pauition leading to the garden) Suzuki, how soon shall we be starving? ACT TWO 37 Suzuki (opens a small cabinet, and, taking a few coins from it, shows them to Butterfly) This is all that is left us. Butterfly No more ? Oh, we've been spendthrifts ! Suzuki (replaceB the money in the cabinet, which she closes, saying, with a sigh:) Unless he comes, and quickly, Qur plight is a bad one. Butterfly (with decision) He'll come, though. Suzuki (shaking her head) Will he come ? Butterfly (vexed, to Suzuki) Why did he order the Consul To provide this dwelling for us ? Now answer that ! And why was he so careful To have the house provided with safe locks If he did not intend to come again ? Suzuki I know not. Butterfly (surprised at such ignorance) Know you not ? (with proud confidence) Then I will tell you. 'Twas to keep outside Those spiteful plagues, my own relations. And inside, 'twas to give me protection. Me, his beloved wife— his Butterfly. 38 MADAM BUTTERFLY Suzuki (still far from convinced) I never heard as yet Of foreign husband Who returned to his nest. Butterfly (furious) Silence, or I'll kill you. (still trying to persuade Suzuki) Why, just before he went, I asked of him : "You'll come back again 'to me ? " And with his heart so heavy. To conceal his trouble, With a smile he made answer: (imitating Pinkerton) O Butterfly, My tiny little child- wife, I'll return with the roses. The warm and sunny season When the red-breasted robins Are busy nesting. (calm and convinced) And he'll return. Suzuki (still incredulous) We'll hope so. Butterfly (insisting) Say it with me: He'll return ! Suzuki (repeats, to please her) He'll return ! (then she bursts out weeping) ACT TWO 39 Butterfly ^ (surprised) Weeping ? and why ? Ah, 'tis faith you are lacking ! (she then continues, full of faith, and smiling) Hear me. — One fine day we'll notice A thread of smoke arising on the sea In the far horizon, And then tlie ship appearing; — Then the trim white vessel Glides into the harbour, thunders forth her cannon. See you ? He is coming ! — I do not go to meet him. Not I. I stay Upon the brow of the hillock and wait, and wait For a long time, but never weary Of the long waiting. From out the crowded city, There is coming a man — A little speck in the distance, climbing the hillock. Can you guess who it is ? And when lie's reached the summit Can you guess what he'll say? He will call " Butterfly " from the distance. I, without answering, Hold myself quietly concealed, . A bit to tease him, and a bit so as not to die At our first meeting; and then, a little troubled. He will call, he will call: " Dear baby-wife of mine, dear little orange-blossom ! '^ The names he used to call me when he came here, (to Suzuki) This will all come to pass, just as I tell you. Banish your idle fears— for he'll return, I know it. (diflmisaes Suzuki, who goes out of door on left. Butterfly looks after her, sadly) 40 MADAM BUTTERFLY (Goro and Sharpless appear In the garden : Goro looks into the room, sees Butterfly and says to Sharp less:) GOKO Come! — She's in here. (brings Sharpless in ; then goes outside again at once, and peeps in from the garden every now aad then) Shaepless (knocks cautiously at the door on the right) I am seeking — (catches sight of Butterfly, who has risen on hearing him enter) Madam Butterfly — Butterfly (corrects him, without turning round) Nay, Madam Pinkerton, Excuse me. (she turns round, recognizes the Consul, and claps her hands for joy) Why here is the Consul; yes, the Consul! (Snznki enters eagerly and prepares a small table with smoking materials, some cushions and a stool) Sharpless (surprised) What, you remember — ? Btjtteefly (doing the honors of the house) You are welcome ; be seated, You are most honorably welcome. Sharpless Thank you. Butterfly /fiirited tne Consul to be seated near the table; Sharpless drops awkwardly on to a cushion; Butterfly sits down on the other side and slyly smiles behind her fan at his discomfort, then with much grace:) And your honorable ancestors, Ib their health good ? Sharpless (thanks her, smiling) I hope so. ACT lv70 42 Butterfly (eififns to Suzuki, who prepares the pipe) You smoke ? Sharpless Thank you (he is auxiouB to explain the object of his visit, and draws a letter from his pocket) I've here — Butterfly (prettily interrupting him) Augustness, the sky Is quite uncloucied. (after having taken a draw at the pipe, she offers it to the Consul) Sharpless (refusing) Thank you. (trying again to resume the thread of his talk) I've— Butterfly Oaysdown the pipe on the table and says very pressingly:) You prefer most likely To smoke American cigarettes ? (offers him some) Sharpless (taking one) Well, thank you. (rises and tries to resume) I have to show you — Butterfly (hands him a lighted taper) Alight? Sharpless (lights his cigarette, bat then pats it down at once, and showing her the iettef, ^its §own q| tjiestpoj^ I've a letter from Mr. Pinkertpii, 4:2 MADAM BUTTERFLY Butterfly (wiih intense earnestness) What? Really? How's his honorable health ? Sharpless He's quite well. Butterfly (jumping lip very joyfully) Then I'm the happicist Woman in Japan. Would you Answer me a question ? (Suzuki is busy preparing tea) Shakpless Gladly. Butterfly (sits down again) At what time of the year Do robins nest in America ? Sharpless (amazed) Are you serious? Butterfly Yes. Sooner or later than here ? Sharpless Tell me— why? (Goto comes up from the garden on to the terrace, and listens unseen by Butterfly) Butterfly My husband gave his promise He would return in the joyous season, When, robin redbreasts rebuild their nests. Here they have built them thrice already, But I thought that over there They might nest less often. (Goro bursts out laughing) ACT TTVO Butterfly Who's laughing ? (sees Goro) Oh, the Nakodo. (softly to Sharpless) A wicked fellow. Goro (bowing obsequiously) I was — Butterfly Silence. (to Sharpless) Why, he dared— No, firs-c I'd like An answer. Answer me what I asked you. Sharpless (embarrassed) I am sorry, but — I don't — I never studied ornithology. Butterfly (trying lo understand) Ah! orni — Sharpless — thology. Butterfly Ah, then You cannot tell me ? Sharpless No. (tries to return to his point) We were saying — Butterfly (interrupts him, pursuing her thoughts) Ah, yes. Scarcely was B. F. Pinkerton away. 43 44 MADAM BUTTERFLY Than Goro came hither And besought me, With arguments and presents, to re-marry. He'd half-a-dozen suitors. Now he offers me riches If I will wed an idiot — Goro (to justify himself, tries to explain to SharplesB) The wealthy Yamadori. She's as poor as she can be — and her relations Have cast her off completely (Beyond the terrace the Prince Yamadori is seen, followed by two servants carrying flowers ) BUTTEEFLT (sees Yamadori, and points him out to Sharpless with a smile) Here he is. Now listen. (Yamadori enters with much pomp, bows gracefully to Butterfly then salutes the Consul. The two servants deliver their flowers to Suzuki, and retire to the back. Goro, full of servil- ity, brings a stool for Yamadori, between Sharpless and Butterfly, and is very much lu evidence throughout the interview. Sharpless and Yamadori sit down) (to Yamadori) Yamadori — and have the throes Of unrequited love not yet released you ? Do you still intend to die If I withhold my kisses ? Yamadori (to Sharpless) There is naught on earth more cruel Than the pangs of hopeless love. Butterfly (with graceful raillery) You have had so many consorts Surely you must be inured ! Yamadori Ev'ry one of them I married, And divorce has set me free. ACT TWO 45 Butterfly Thank you kindly ! Yamadoei (eagerly) But yet to you, I would swear eternal faith. Shaepless (sighing, replaces the letter in his pocket) (I am very much afraid My message will not be delivered.) GoKO (pointing out Yamadori to Sharpless, with emphasis) Houses, servants, treasures, and A regal palace at Omara ! Butterfly (seriously) But my hand's bestowed already — GoRO AND Yamadori (to Sharpless) She believes she still is married — ■ Butterfly (emphatically) I don't believe, for I knoio it. GoRO But the law says — Butterfly (interrupting him) I know it not. GoRO (continues) For the wife, desertion Gives the right of divorce. Butterfly (shaking her head) That may be Japanese law, But not in my country. 46 MADAM BUTTERFLY GoRO Wbicli one ? Butterfly (with emphasis) The United States. Sharpless (Poor little creature ! ) Butterfly (streii'ionsly, and growing excited) I know, of course, to open the door And to turn out your wife at any moment Here, constitutes divorce. But in America, that canuot be done. (to Sharpless) Say so ! Sharpless (embarrassed) Yes, yes — but yet — Butterfly (interrupts him, turning to Yamadori and Gore in triumph) There, a true, honest And unbiassed judge Says to the husband: " You wish to free yourself? " Let us hear why ? — " I am sick and tired " Of conjugal fetters !" Then the good judge says? " Ah, wicked scoundrel, " Clap him in prison !" (to put an end to the subject, she orders Suzuki) Suzuki, tea. Yamadori (softly, to Sharpless, whilst Butterfly makes tea) You hear her ? ACT TWO 47 Sharpless I am grieved at such hopeless blindness. GORO (whispers to Yamadori and Sharpless) Mr. Pinkerton's ship is already Signalled. Yamadori (in despair) And when they meet again , Sharpless (whispers to both) He does not want to see her. — It is for that I came To try and prepare her. — I have here a letter From him, which — (seeing that Butterfly is approaching him with tea, he cuts short his sentence) Butterfly (charmingly, offering Snarpless a cup of tea) Will your Honour allow me — (opens her fan, and behind it points to the two others, laughing) What troublesome people ! (offers tea to Yamadori, who refuses) Yamadori (rises with a sigh and bows to Butterfly with hand on heart) Farewell, then. I go, my heart heavy with sorrow, But still I hojie — Butterfly So be it. Yamadori (is leaving, but returns to Butterfly^ Ah, if you would but — Butterfly The pity is : I will not ! — [Yamadori, after having bowed to Sharpless, goes off sighing, followed by his servants. But- terfly signs to Suzuki to remove the tea. Suzuki obeys, then retires to the baclf of the room. Goro promptly follows Yamadori) 48 MADAM BUTTERFLY Sharpless (assumes a grave and serious aspect ; with great respect, however, and some emotion, he invites Butterfly to be seated, and once more draws the letter from his pocket) Now at last ! Now if you please, be seated, (Butterfly merrily seats herself near Sharpless, who shows her the letter) And read this letter throutrh with me. Butterfly Show me. (takes the letter, kisses it, then places it on her heart) On my lips, on my heart — (gives it back to Sharpless, saying, prettily :) You are the best man That ever lived. Begin, I beg you. Sharpless (reads) " Dear Friend, I beg you seek out " That child, that pretty flower ** Butterfly (interrupting him joyfully) Does he truly say that ? Sharpless Yes, he truly says so, But if you interrupt so — Butterfly (calming down again) I'll be quiet — and listen. Sharpless (resumes) " Those were happy days together ; " Three years have now gone by since '* Butterfly (unable to contain herself) Then he too has counted I ACT TWO 49 Sharpless (continues) " And perhaps Butterfly " Remembers me no more." Butterfly (surprised) I not remember? (turning to Suzulii) Suzuki, tell him quickly. (repeats as though scandalized at the words of the letter :) " Remembers me no more ! " (Suzuki nods her head affirmatively, then goes into room on left) SUARPLESS (to himself) Oh, patience ! (continues reading) " If she still " Cares for me and expects me — " Butterfly (deeply moved) Oh, what glorious tidings ! (takes the letter and kisses it) You blessed letter ! Sharpless (takes the letter back and boldly resumes reading, though his voice is trembling with emotion) " On you I am relying *' To act discreetly, and with tact "And caution to prepare her — " Butterfly (anxiously, but radiant) He's coming — Sharpless " For the shock—" Butterfly (jumping for joy and clapping Uer lWJ4fl) Tell rae quickly, quickly ! 50 MADAM BUTTEKFLY Shakpless ' (resignedly folds up the letter and replaces it in his pocket) (Well, really ! Here I ought to prevent her — (shaking hie head in vexation) That fiend of a Pinkorton !) (rises, and looldng straight into Butterfly's eyes, very seriously) Now say, What would you do, tell me, Madam Butterfly, If he were never to return a^ain ? BUTIKRFLT (motionless, like one who has received a death blow, bows her head, and says with childlike submissiveness :) Two things I might do : Go back and entertain The people with my songs — Or else, — better — to die. Shaepless (is deeply moved, and walks up and down excitedly — then he turns to Butterfly, takes her bands in his, and says with fatherly tenderness :) I am loth indeed to tear you From illusions so beguiling, But I urge you to accept the hand Of wealthy Yamadori. Butterfly (withdrawing her hands from his) You, Augustness, you tell me this ! Sharpless (embarrassed) Holy powers, what can I do ? Butterfly (claps her hands— Suzuki hastens in) Here, Suzuki, come quickly please. Show his Honour to the door. Sharpless You dismiss rae ? (is on the point of leaving, but Butterfly runs to him sobbing, and holds Jiim bacji) ACT TWO 51 Butterfly I beseech you, Let my words be quite forgotten. (dismisses Suzuki, vho goes into the garden) Sharpless (making excuses) I was brutal, I admit it. Butterfly (sadly, laying her hand on her heart) Oh, you've wounded me so deeply, Wounded me so very deeply ! Sharpless (with emotion) Poor little creature ! (Butterfly totters ; Sharpless is about to support her, but f he quickly rallies) Butterfly 'Tis nothing, nothing ! I felt ready to die ! — But see, it passes, Swift as shadows that flit across the ocean. Ah ! am I forgotten '? (runs into the room on the left, and comes back in triumph, carrying her baby on her shoulder, and shows him to Sharpless, full of pride) Look here then ! look here ! Can such as this well be forgotten ? (puts the child down on the ground and holds him close to her) Sharpless (deeply touched) Is it his? 52 MADAM BUTTERFLY Butterfly (pointing to his featuree one by one) What Japanese Baby was ever born with azure eyes ? Such lips too ? and such a head Of golden curls ? Shabpless (more and more moved) It is his image. Has Pinkerton been told? Butterfly I^C, I bore him when he "Wts far off in his big native country. (caressing the child) But you will write and tell him There awaits him a son, who has no equal! And would you tell me then, that he won't hasten Over land and over sea! (seats the child on the cushion, and kisses him fondly) Do you know, my sweet, what that bad man (points to Sharpless) Had heart to fancy ? That your mother should take you on her shoulder And forth should wander in rain and tempest Through the town, seeking to earn enough For food and clotliing. And then, before the pitying people To dance in measure to her song, and cry out: " Oh, listen, good people, " Listen for the love of all "The eight hundred thousand gods and goddesses of Japan!" And there will pass a band of valiant warriors With their Emp'ror, to whom I'll say: *' Noble Ruler, tarry thy footsteps " And deign to stop and look (showing the child and caressing him) *' At these blue eyes, as blue as the azure heaven " Whence you, Most High, are come!" ACT TWO ^^ (she crouches down beside the child, and continues in caressing and tearful tones) And then, the noble King Will stay his progress, full of gracious kindness, (pressing her cheek next to the baby's cheek) Who knows? he'll make of you The most exalted ruler of his kingdom. (she strains the child to her heart, and crouching down on the ground, hugs him passionately) Sharpless (cannot restrain his tears) (Poor faithful soul!) (then, conquering his emotion, he says:) 'Tis evening. I must be going. (Butterfly rises to her feet and with a charming gesture gives Sharpless her hand; he shakes it cordially with both of his) You will excuse me? Butterfly (to the child) Now you — give him your hand, love. Sharpless (takes the child in his arms) What pretty golden ringlets! (kisses him) Darling, what do they call you ? Butterfly Give answer: Sir, to-day my name is Trovhle. But yet Write and tell my father, on the day Of his returning, Joy shall be my name. Sharpless Your father shall be told, that I will promise. (puts down the child, bows to Butterfly, and goes out quickly by door on the right) Butterfly (clapping her hands) Suzuki. 54 MADAM BUTTERFLY Suzuki (shontino; outside) Scoundrel! Rascal! Wretched coward! (she then comes in, roughly dragging in Uoro, who tries in vain to escape) BUTTEEFLT Who's that ? SuzuK He prowls around here, Evil reptile! from morn to evening, And tells this scandal All through the town: That no one knows Who is this baby's father! (she releases Goro, who tries to justify himself) GORO I only told her That out in America Whene'er a baby Is born in such conditions, He will be shunned throughout his life And treated as an outcast — (Butterfly, enraged, runs to the shrine, and takes down the sword which was used for the hara tiri— condemned suicide— of her father, crying:) Butterfly Ah, you're lying, lying! (seizes Goro, who falls down, and threatens to kill him; Goro utters desperate howls) Say't again and I'll kill you ! Suzuki (thrusts herself between them) No! (horrified at such a scene, che takes the baby and carries him into the room on the left) Butterfly \8eiz°«! vitb disgust, pushes him away with her foot) Begone! ACT TWO J^ (Goro makes his escape; Butterfly rouses herself and goes to put away the dagger, and her thoughts turning to her child, she exclaims:) Oh, you'll see, love of my heart, My grief and yet my comfort, That your avenger soon will be here And take you and me to his own country, Where — (a cannon-shot) Suzuki (enters breathlessly) The harbour cannon ! (runs toward the terrace— Butterfly follows her) Look, 'tis a man-of-war. Butterfly (breathless with excitement) ^VVhite — white — the American Stars and stripes — 'tis putting Into port to anchor. (tal£es a telescope from the table and runs on to the terrace: all trembling with excitement, she directs the telescope towards the harbour, and says to Suzuki:) Keep my hand steady, That I may read the name, • The name, the name. Here it is: Abraham Lincoln! (gives the telescope to Suzuki, and goes down from the terrace in the greatest state of excitement) They all were liars'. Liars! liars! But I Knew it always— I — who love him. (to Suzuki) Now do you see the folly of your doubting ? He's coming! He's coming! Just at the moment you all were saying: Weep and forget him. My love wins the day! My love anci faith have won completely— He's here— he loves me ! 56 MADAM BUTTERFLY (a prey to the greatest excitement and joy, she goes on to the terrace, saying:) Shake that cherry-tree till ev'ry flower, White as snow, flutters down— His noble brow, in a sweet scented shower I would smother. (Bobbing for tenderness) Suzuki (soothing her) Sweet Madam, Be calm, I pray : this weeping — BUTTEKFLY Nay, laughing, laughing ! When May we expect him up here ? "What think you ? In an hour ? Suzuki Too soon. BUTTEEFLT (thonghtfully) Yes, 'tis too soon. Two hours more likely. You Go for flowers. Flowers be everywhere, As close as stars are in the heavens, (signs to Sozuki to go into the garden) (f ronj {he {errs^) All the ^Qw^vs ? ACT TWO 57 Butterfly All — Peaches, violets, jessamine, Ev'ry spray of gorse or grass or flow'ring tree. Suzuki Desolate as in winter the garden will appear. (goes into the garden) Butterfly Ah ! but the balmy breath of spring shall shed her sweetness here. Suzuki (appears on the terrace and holds out a large bunch of flowers and foliage to Butterfly) Here's more, dear mistress. Butterfly (taking the bunch) 'Tis not enough yet. (Butterfly distributes the flowers about the room, while Suzuki goes back to the garden) Suzuki (from the garden) How often at this window you've stood and wept, and waited. Gazing and gazing into the wide, wide world beyond. Butterfly No more need I pray for, since the kind sea has brought him. I gave my tears to the earth, and it returns me flow'rs ! SusuKi (reappears on the terrace with another load of flowers) Not a flow'r left. Butterfly (taking the flowers) Give me your burden. Come and help me. (they scatter flowers everywhere) SuSUKI Roses shall adorn The threshold. 68 madam butterfly Butterfly Now round his seat Entwine convolvuluSo Suzuki Lillies?— Violets? Butterfly Come, scatter flowers. Butterfly and Suzuki Let us sow fair April here. (lightly swaj-ing their bodies to a dance measure, tlicy scatter flowers everywhere) In handfuls let us scatter Violets and roses white, Sprays of scented sweet verbena, And the petals of all flowers I (Butterfly, assisted by Suzuki, fetches out her toilet requiremente) Butterfly (to Suzuki) Now, come and make me fine — No, first bring me the baby. (Snzuki goes into the room on the left and brings the child, whom she seats near Butterfly who meanwhile looks at herself in a small hand-mirrow, and says sadly:) Alas, how changed he'll find nie ! Drawn, weary mouth from overmuch sighing, And poor tired eyes from overmuch crying. (throws herself on the ground, laying her head on Suzuki's feet) Suzuki, make me pretty, make me pretty ! Suzuki (stroking Butterfly's head, to sooth her) Rest calm and happy, and you'll be fair once more. Butterfly Who knows? who knows? (rises, resumes her toilet and says to Suzuki:) Put on eacli cheek A little touch of carmine ACT TWO 59 (takes a paintbrush and puts a dab of rouge on the baby's cheeks) And also for my darling So that the watching may not make his face Heavy and palid. Suzuki Nay, but keep still, till I've finished arrainging your hair BUTTEKFLT (pursuing her thoughts) What a surprise For all ray relations! And for the Bonze My uncle ! How they Will prate and shout in chorus I Oh what a hubbub I can hear The gossips make with Goro ! All of them sure and glad Of my downfall ! And Yaraadori With his airs and graces! My scorn and derision, My jeers and contempt For the wretches I Suzuki (has finished Butterfly's toilet) I've finished. Butterfly Bring me my wedding-garment. (Suzuki goes to a small coffer and brings out the obi and the white garment, returns with two garments, and gives one with the obi to Butterfly) 60 MADAM BUTTERFLY Butterfly (puts down the child) Bring it hither quickly. (while she puts on her garment, Suzuki dresses the child in the other one, wrapping him up almost entirely in the ample and light draperies) I would have him see me in it As on my wedding-day. In ray hair we will put A scarlet poppy — (Suzuki, who has finished dressing the baby, fetches the flower and places it in Butterfly's hair. The latter looks at herself in the glass, and is pleased with the effect Like this. (she then signs to Suzuki to lower the thosi) In the shosi we'll make three little holes That we can look out, And still as little mice we'll stay here To w^atch and wait. She carries the child close to the shosi, in which she makes three holes; one high np for her- self, one lower down for Suzuki, and a third one lower still for the baby, whom she seats on a cushion, showing him how to look out of his hole. Suzuki crouches down and also gazes out through ner hole. Butterfly stands in front of the top hole and gazes through it. After some time Suzuki and the child fall af leep. Meanwhile night has fallen, and the rays of the moon shed their lights from without the shosi. Butterfly remains motionless, rigid as a statue. ACT 1 1. PART n. The ire&TY night of watching passes. The clanging of chains and anchors and the distant voices of Bailors rise from the harbour at the foot of the hill. At the rising of the curtain is already dawn; Butterfly still motionless, is gazing out into the distance. Suzuki (awakening with a start) 'Tis daylight. (rises and taps Butterfly lightly on the shoulder) Cho-Cho-San ! Butterfly (starts, aid says confidently :) He'll come ; he'll come — I know he'll come. (sees that the child has fallen asleep, and takes him in her arms) Suzuki I pray you, go and rest, for you are weary, And I will call you when he arrives. Butterfly (singing softly as she goes up the staircase) Sweet, thou art sleeping. Cradled on my heart ; Safe in God's keeping, While I must weep apart ; Around thy head the moonbeams dart, Sleep, my beloved ! (goes into the room above) 63 MADAM BUTTERFLY Suzuki (watches her go, and say 3 with deep pity:) Poor Madain Butterfly ! (Suzuki kneels before the image of Buddha, then goes to open the shosU Pinkerton and Sharpless Jcnock gentbj at the door. Suzuki Who is it ? (goes to open the door, and stands greatly surprised) Oh! Sharpless (signing her no I to make a noise) Hush ! Hush I (Pinkerton and aharpless enter cautiously on tiptoe) PiNKEKTON (anxiously, to Suzuki) Is she asleep ? Disturb her not. Suzuki She was so very weary ! She stood expecting you All through the night, with the baby. Pinkerton How did she know ? Suzuki No ship has crossed the harbour these three years Whose flags and colours Butterfly has not Eagerly examined. ACT TWO Shakpless (to Pinkerton) Did I not tell you ? Suzuki (going) I'll call her. Pinkerton (stopping her) IsTo, not yet. Suzuki Look around you Last night she would have the room Decorated with flowers. Sharpless (deeply touched) Did I not tell you ? Pinkerton (distressed) Ob, torment ? Suzuki (surpriBed) Torment ? (hears sounds from the garden) Who's that outside there In the garden ? ^oes to look through the shosi and exclaims iu surprise :) A lady ! !— Pinkerton (leading her forward again) Hush! Suzuki (excitedly) Who's that ? Who's that f Sharpless Better tell her all. 64 MADAM BUTTERFLY PiNKERTON (in confusion) She came with me. Sharplhss (deliberately) She's his wife. Suzuki tnpifled, raieee her arms to Heaven, then fall on her knees with her face to the ground) Hallowed souls of my fathers ! The world is plunged in gloom ! Sharpless (calming her, and raising her from the ground) We came here so early in the morning To find you all alone, that you might give us Your help and guidance in this our plight. Suzuki (in •'espair) ^Jow can I ? (.Sharpless takes her aside and tries with prayers and entreaties to get her consent, whilst Plnkerton, getting more and more agitated, wanders about the room, noting every detail) Sharpless (to Suzuki) I know that for such a trouble There is no consolation ! But the future of the baby Must be our first and special thought ! This gentle lady Who dare not enter Will give the child a mother's care. Suzuki Woe is me ! do you ask me To go and tell a mother— ACT TWO 65 Shakpless (persisting) Delay not, call her, Call in that gentle lady And conduct her here — if even Butterfly should see her, no matter. Then with her eyes she will learn The cruel truth we dare not teil her. Suzuki Oh, woe is me ! (Sharpless pushes her iuto the garden, where she joins Mrs. Pinkerton) PiNKERTON Oh, the bitter fragrance Of these flowers. It is poison to ray heart. Unchanged is the chamber Where once we loved — But a deathly chill haunts the air. (sees his own lilieness and takes it up) And here my portrait ! (puts it down) Faded is the likeness, Just like a leaf pressed between pages. Three years have passed away, And ev'ry day, every hour she counted — (agitated by these reminiscences he turns to Sharpless) I cannot remain, — Sharpless, I'll wait for you Outside. Give her this money, just to support her- (gives the Consul some money) Remorse and anguish choke me. Sharpless Is it not as I told you 1 66 MADAM BUTTEEFLT PiNKEETON Yes. In one sudden moment I see my heartless action, And feel that 1 shall never free myself From remorse. Haunted for ever I shall be By her reproachful eyes. Farewell, O happy home ! Farewell, home of love ! I cannot bear to stay ! Like a coward let me fly — Farewell ! Sharpless I warned you — you remember? When in your hand she laid hers : " Be careful, for she believes you." Alas, how true I spoke ! Deaf to doubting, humiliation, Blindly trusting to your promise Her heart will break. But now this faithful heart Has perhaps already divined. Now go — the cruel truth She best should hear alone (Plnkerton., wringing the Consul hands, goes out quickly as Kate and Suzuki come in from ACT TWO e? Kate (to Suzuki) Then you will tell her ? To trust me ? Suzuki I promise. Kate And you will counsel her Suzuki I promise. Kate Like my son will I tend him. Suzuki I trust you ! But I must be alone beside her In this cruel hour ! She will weep so sorely ! BUTTEEFLT (calling from the room above) Suzuki, Suzuki, where are you ? (appears at the head of the staircase) Suzuki (signs to the others to keep quiet, then answers:) I'm here. 1 was praying, and going back to watch — (Butterfly comes down. Suzuki rushes toward the staircase to prevent her from coming) No, no, do not come down. Butterfly (comes down quickly, freeing herself from Suzuki, who tries in vain to hold her back; then she paces the room in a state of great excitement but happiness) He's here — where is he hidden ? 68 MADAM BUTTERFLY (sees Sharpless) Here is the Consul — and whore is ? — where is ? — (looks behind the screens) Not here ! (turns and sees Mrs. Pinkerton) Who are you ? Why have you come ? — No one answers ! — Why are you weeping ? No, no, tell me nothing — nothing — lest I fall dead At your feet at the words I hear. You, Suzuki, Are always so faithful — do not weep, I pray ! Since you love me so dearly, say " yes " or " no " quite softly. He lives ? Suzuki Yes. Butterfly But he'll come No more. They have told you ! (angered at Sazuki's silence) Woman, I want you to reply. No more. Suzuki buttebply He reached here yesterday ? Suzuki Yes. Butterfly (looks at Kate as though compelled) Who is this lady That terrifies me — terrifies me ? Kate (simply) Through no fault of my own I'm the cause of your trouble. Forgive me, pray. (is about to approach Butterfly, who imperiously waves her off) Butterfly No — do not touch me. (a long and painful silence; then Butterfly resumes in a calm voice:) And how long is it since he married — you ? ACT TWO 69 Kate A year, exactly. (Butterfly is silent) And will you let me do nothing for the child ? I will tend him, with most loving care — (Butterfly does not reply; Kate, impressed by her silence, persists, deeply moved: 'Tis hard for you, very hard ! But take the step for his welfare. Butterfly (after a long silence) "Who knows! ? All is over now! Kate (gently) Can you not forgive me, Butterfly ? Butterfly (solemnly) Neath the blue vault of heaven There is no happier lady than you are — May you remain so Nor e'er be saddened through me — Yet it would please me greatly That you should tell him That peace will come to me — Kate (holding out her hand) Your hand — your hand, may I not take it ? Butterfly (drawing back, but replying kindly) I pray you — no — not that! Now go and leave me. Kate (going away, says to Sharpless) Poor little lady I Sharpless (deeply moved) Ob, the pity of it all ! Kate (whispers to Sharpless) And can he have his son ? 70 MADAM BUTTERFLY Butterfly