[Footnote: A wisp of straw, or a stick, was formerly used as a symbol of investiture of a feudal fief. According to some authors the breaking of the straw or stick was a proof that the vassals renounced their homage; hence the allusion of Molière. The breaking of a staff was also typical of the voluntary or compulsory abandonment of power. Formerly, after the death of the kings of France, the _grand maitre_ (master of the household) broke his wand of office over the grave, saying aloud three times, _le roi est mort_ and then _Vive le roi_. Hence also, most likely, the saying of Prospero, in Shakespeare's "Tempest" Act v. Sc. I, "I'll break my staff," _i.e._, I voluntarily abandon my power. Sometimes the breaking of a staff betokened dishonour, as in Shakespeare's second part of "Henry VI." Act I. Sc. 2. when Gloster says: "Methought this staff, mine office-badge in court was broke in twain."] Cast none of your sheep's eyes at me; [Footnote: According to tradition, Gros-René and Marinette stand on the stage back to back; from time to time they look to the right and to the left; when their looks meet they turn their heads abruptly away, whilst Gros-René presents over his shoulder to Marinette the piece of straw, which the latter takes very good care not to touch.] I will be angry. MAR. Do not look at me thus; I am too much provoked. GR.-RE. Here, break this straw; this is the way of never recanting again; break. What do you laugh at, you jade? MAR. Yes, you make me laugh. GR.-RE. The deuce take your laughing! all my anger is already softened. What do you say? shall we break or not? MAR. Just as you please. GR.-RE. Just as you please. MAR. Nay, it shall be as you please. GR. RE. Do you wish me never to love you? MAR. I? As you like. GR.-RE. As you yourself like; only say the word. MAR. I shall say nothing. GR.-RE. Nor I. MAR. Nor I. GR.-RE. Faith! we had better forswear all this nonsense; shake hands, I pardon you. MAR. And I forgive you. GR.-RE. Bless me! how you bewitch me with your charms. MAR. What a fool is Marinette when her Gros-René is by. * * * * * ACT V. SCENE I.--MASCARILLE, _alone_.