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Show PROGRAMMES OF BALLETS. 349 surprised at the indifference of his master. This action of Frontin at once appeases the resentment of his master. The fellow muses on his new condition, but the entrance of Louise puts an end to his meditations, and changes them into joy. She does not venture to approach him, but Frontin encourages her by his gestures. She informs him that she is again come to implore him to unite her to Colin, and to appoint the day of marriage ; but this proposal not answering the intentions of Frontin, he turns the subject of the conversation, flatters, and compliments her on her agreeable qualities. The young village maid blushes, and appears confused. Frontin growing impertinent, Louise attempts to escape from him, but he arrests her flight. H e now makes confession of his love, on which Louise becomes greatly agitated. Fearing to offend the supposed Marquis, she knows not how to proceed. At length she sees no hope, but in artifice ; she pretends to faint, and is on the point of falling. Frontin, fearing discovery, is greatly perplexed. He places the maid in an arm chair, and searches on all sides for assistance ; he knows not what to do. The design of Louise has succeeded, and while Frontin is seeking for aid, she rises and runs away unperceived, thus avoiding his disagreeable advances. Frontin now returns to the spot where he had left the young villager ; but what is his surprise on finding her gone ! H e perceives himself tricked. He storms and menaces Louise with the effects of his rage, and meditates on the means of revenge. The Marquis has observed all that passed, and has been much amused at the scene, particularly at the vexatious predicament of his man Frontin. The Steward, the two lovers and the peasantry enter. The repast is prepared, and each takes his place. Frontin |
