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ACT ONE 

SCENE ONE 

A partly furnished room, with an easy-chair in the centre. 

Figaro with a measure in his hand, Susanna at the mirror, trying on a hat decorated with flowers. Duettino 

FIGARO 

measuring the room 

Five ... ten ... twenty ... thirty ... 

Thirty-six ... forty-three 

SUSANNA 

to herself, gazing into the mirror 

Yes, I'm very pleased with that; 

It seems just made for me. 

Take a look, dear Figaro, 

Just look at this hat of mine. 

She continues to gaze at herself 

FIGARO 

Yes, my dearest, it's very pretty; 

It looks just made for you. 

SUSANNA and FIGARO 

On this morning of our wedding 

How delightful to my (your) dear one 

Is this pretty little hat 

Which Susanna made herself. 

Recitative 

SUSANNA 

What are you measuring, 

My dearest Figaro? 

FIGARO 

I'm seeing if this bed 

Which the Count has put aside for us 

Will go well just here. 

SUSANNA 

In this room? 

FIGARO 

Of course; his lordship's

Generously giving it to us. 

SUSANNA 

As far as I'm concerned, you can keep it. 

FIGARO 

What's the matter? 

SUSANNA 

tapping her forehead 

I've my reasons in here. 

FIGARO 

doing the same 

Why can't you 

Let me in on them? 

SUSANNA 

Because I don't choose to. 

Are you my slave, or not? 

FIGARO 

But I don't understand 

Why you so dislike 

The most convenient room in the palace. 

SUSANNA 

Because I'm Susanna and you're a dolt. 

FIGARO 

Thanks, you're too flattering: just see If it could go better anywhere else. 

Duettino 

FIGARO 

Supposing my lady 

Calls you at night: 

Ding ding: in two steps 

You can be there from here. 

Or if it should happen 

That his lordship should want me, Dong dong: in three bounds 

I'm there at his service. 

SUSANNA 

And supposing one morning 

The dear Count should ring, 

ding ding, and send you

Three miles away, 

Dong dong, and the devil 

Should lead him to my door? 

Dong dong, in three bounds ... 

FIGARO 

Hush, hush, Susanna. 

SUSANNA 

Listen. 

FIGARO 

Quick, tell me! 

SUSANNA 

If you wish to hear the rest, 

Banish those suspicions 

Which do me wrong. 

FIGARO 

I burn to hear the rest: 

Doubts and suspicions 

Freeze my blood. 

Recitative 

SUSANNA 

Well then, listen and keep quiet. 

FIGARO 

Speak: what's there to tell? 

SUSANNA 

The noble Count, 

Tired of scouring the countryside For fresh beauties, 

Wants to try his luck again 

In his own palace, 

Though, let me tell you, it's not his wife Who wets his appetite. 

FIGARO 

Well, who then? 

SUSANNA 

Your little Susanna. 

FIGARO 

You?

SUSANNA 

The very same, and he's hoping That being so close will be most useful To his noble project. 

FIGARO 

Bravo! Go on. 

SUSANNA 

This is the gracious favour, this the care He bestows on you and on your wife. 

FIGARO 

Have you seen such condescension! 

SUSANNA 

Wait though: there's better to come. Don Basilio, my singing teacher and his Factotum, repeats this same theme daily When he gives me my lesson. 

FIGARO 

What, Basilio? The scoundrel! 

SUSANNA 

Did you imagine 

He gave me a dowry 

For the sake of your beaux yeux? 

FIGARO 

So I'd flattered myself. 

SUSANNA 

He intends it 

To obtain from me certain half?hours ... Which feudal privilege ... 

FIGARO 

What! Didn't the Count 

Abolish that in his domain? 

SUSANNA 

He did, but now regrets it; and it seems He wants to bring it back for me. 

FIGARO 

Well! Very pretty: 

How charming of his lordship!

He wants some fun: he'll get it ... 

A bell rings 

FIGARO 

Who's ringing? The Countess. 

SUSANNA 

Goodbye, goodbye, goodbye. Figaro, my dear. 

FIGARO 

Courage, my dearest. 

SUSANNA 

And you be wary. 

Exit 

SCENE TWO 

FIGARO 

feverishly pacing up and down the room, rubbing his hands Well done, my noble master! Now I begin 

To understand the secret ... and to see 

Your whole scheme clearly: to London, 

Isn't it, you go as minister, I as courier, 

And Susanna ... confidential attachée ... 

It shall not be: Figaro has said it. 

Cavatina 

FIGARO 

If, my dear Count, 

You feel like dancing, 

It's I 

Who'll call the tune. 

If you'lI come 

To my school, 

I'll teach you 

How to caper. 

I'll know how... but wait, 

I can uncover 

His secret design 

More easily by dissembling. 

Acting stealthily, 

Acting openly, 

Here stinging, 

There mocking,

All your plots 

I'll overthrow. 

Exit 

SCENE THREE 

Bartolo and Marcellina enter. 

Recitative 

BARTOLO 

And you waited until the day 

Appointed for his wedding 

To tell me this? 

MARCELLINA 

with a contract in her hand 

Oh, my dear doctor, 

I'm not giving up: 

To break off engagements 

Even later than this 

A pretext has often sufficed, and besides This contract he has certain pledges to me I could mention ... but enough; now We must frighten Susanna; we must somehow Make her reject the Count's advances. To revenge himself, 

He'll take my part, 

And so Figaro will become my husband. 

BARTOLO 

taking the contract from Marcellina's hand Well, I'll do all I can, without reserve. Tell me everything. 

aside 

I'd enjoy 

Giving him my old servant for a wife For having stolen my intended from me. 

Aria 

BARTOLO 

Revenge, yes, revenge 

Is a pleasure meant for the intelligent; To forget insults and outrages 

Is always low and base. 

With astuteness and acuteness, 

With judgment and discernment,

I can do it ... The case is serious; 

But, believe me, I'll bring it off. 

If I have to search the whole legal code, 

If I have to read through the whole statute book, With a quibble or a paraphrase 

I'll find some obstacle. 

All Seville knows Dr. Bartolo: 

That rascal Figaro will lose the day! 

Exit 

SCENE FOUR 

Recitative 

MARCELLINA 

All is not lost yet; 

I still have hopes. 

Susanna enters, carrying a lady's cap, a ribbon, and a dress. 

But here comes Susanna: I'll make a start. 

Let's pretend not to see her. 

aside, loudly 

And that's the pearl of virtue 

He intends to marry! 

SUSANNA 

holding back, aside 

She's talking of me. 

MARCELLINA 

But, after all, from Figaro 

One can't hope for anything better: 

Money means everything. 

SUSANNA 

aside 

A spiteful tongue! It's lucky 

Everyone knows the worth of what she says. 

MARCELLINA 

Bravo! such discretion! 

And those modest eyes 

And demure expression, 

As well as ... 

SUSANNA

aside 

I'd better go. 

MARCELLINA 

What a charming bride! 

Both make to leave at the same time, and meet near the door. Duettino 

MARCELLINA 

making a curtsey 

After you, 

Gracious lady. 

SUSANNA 

making a curtsey 

I'd not be so bold, 

Worthy ma'am. 

MARCELLINA 

No, you go first, pray. 

SUSANNA 

No, no, after you. 

SUSANNA and MARCELLINA 

I know my place, 

I'd not so presume. 

MARCELLINA 

A bride?to?be first. 

SUSANNA 

A lady in waiting. 

MARCELLINA 

The Count's favourite. 

SUSANNA 

The toast of Spain. 

MARCELLINA 

Your qualities. 

SUSANNA 

Your dress. 

MARCELLINA

Your position. 

SUSANNA 

Your age. 

MARCELLINA 

aside 

I'll fly into a rage 

If I stay here any longer. 

SUSANNA 

Decrepit old witch, 

She's a laughing?stock. 

Exit Marcellina in a fury 

SCENE FIVE 

Recitative 

SUSANNA 

Get away, you old frump! 

Putting on high and mighty airs 

Because you've read a couple of books And used to torment my lady in her youth … 

She puts the dress over the easy?chair 

CHERUBINO 

entering hurriedly 

Susanna dear, is it you? 

SUSANNA 

Yes, it's me. What do you want? 

CHERUBINO 

Oh my dearest, what a misfortune! 

SUSANNA 

Your dearest! What's happened? 

CHERUBINO 

Yesterday the Count, 

Because he found me all alone 

With Barbarina, dismissed me: 

And if the Countess, 

My lovely godmother, doesn't intercede To get me pardoned, I'll have to go away

And never see my dear Susanna again! 

SUSANNA 

Never see me again! Well then! 

But isn't your heart secretly sighing 

Any longer for the Countess? 

CHERUBINO 

Ah she fills me with too much respect! 

How lucky you are, to be able 

To see her whenever you wish! 

You dress her in the morning 

And undress her at night; you fix 

Her pins, her laces ... 

sighing 

If only I could be in your place ... 

What have you got there? Let me see ... 

SUSANNA 

imitating him 

Oh what a pretty ribbon, and the nightcap 

Of so lovely a godmother ... 

CHERUBINO 

Oh give me it, my dear. 

Give me it, I beg. 

He snatches the ribbon from her hand. 

SUSANNA 

Give it back at once. 

She tries to take it back: he dodges round the easy-chair. 

CHERUBINO 

O dear, sweet, fortunate ribbon! 

I'll not give it up except with my life. 

He kisses the ribbon again and again. 

SUSANNA 

beginning to run after him, but then stopping as if tired What is this insolence! 

CHERUBINO 

Go on, don't be angry! 

In exchange for it I'll give you 

This little song of mine.

He pulls a song from his pocket 

SUSANNA 

And what am I to do with it? 

CHERUBINO 

Read it to my lady, 

Read it for yourself, 

Read it to Barbarina, Marcellina, 

Read it to every woman in the palace. 

SUSANNA 

Poor Cherubino, have you gone mad? 

Aria 

CHERUBINO 

I no longer know what I am or what I'm doing, 

Now I'm burning, now I'm made of ice ... 

Every woman makes me change colour, 

Every woman makes me tremble. 

At the very word love or beloved 

My heart leaps and pounds, 

And to speak of it fills me 

With a longing I can't explain! 

I speak of love when I'm awake, 

I speak ofit in my dreams, 

To the stream, the shade, the mountains, 

To the flowers, the grass, the fountains, 

To the echo, the air, the breezes, 

Which carry away with them 

The sound of my fond words ... 

And if I've none to hear me 

I speak of love to myself. 

SCENE SIX 

Cherubino, seeing the Count appoaching, hides behind the easy?chair. Recitative 

CHERUBINO 

Ah, I'm lost! 

SUSANNA 

Heavens ... 

SUSANNA 

The Count!

She tries to conceal Cherubino. 

Woe is me! 

COUNT 

entering 

Susanna, you seem to be 

Agitated and confused. 

SUSANNA 

My lord ... pray excuse me 

But ... suppose someone caught us ... 

I beg you to leave. 

COUNT 

One moment and I'll leave you. 

Listen. 

He seats himself in the easy?chair and takes Susanna's hand, which she withdraws with an effort. 

SUSANNA 

I mustn't listen. 

COUNT 

Just two words. You know 

That the king has appointed me 

Ambassador in London: I planned 

To take Figaro with me ... 

SUSANNA 

My lord, if you'd allow me ... 

COUNT 

rising 

Speak, speak, my dear, and with that right 

Which today you may assume of me as long as you live, 

tenderly, trying to take her hand again 

Ask, require, demand. 

SUSANNA 

Let me go, my lord; I claim no right, 

Nor wish, nor intend to ... 

I'm so unhappy! 

COUNT 

But no, Susanna, I want to make you happy! 

You well know how much I love you: 

Basilio has already told you; now listen. 

If you'll give me a few minutes 

In the garden at dusk ...

For that favour, ah, I'd pay ... 

BASILIO 

off?stage 

He's just gone out. 

COUNT 

Who spoke? 

SUSANNA 

Oh, heavens! 

COUNT 

Go out, and see no one comes in. 

SUSANNA 

I’m to leave you here alone? 

BASILIO 

as before 

He'll be with my lady: I'll go and look for him. 

COUNT 

indicating the easy?chair 

I'll get behind here. 

SUSANNA 

Do not hide there. 

COUNT 

Hush, and get rid of him. 

The count goes to hide behind the chair: Susanna interposes herself between the page and him. The Count pushes her gently aside. She withdraws; the page steals in front of the chair and curls up inside it. Susanna covers him with the dress. 

SUSANNA 

Alas! What are you doing? 

SCENE SEVEN 

BASILIO 

entering 

Susanna, Heaven be with you: 

Have you by any chance seen the Count? 

SUSANNA 

What should the Count be doing here

With me? Please go away. 

BASILIO 

Just a moment, listen; 

Figaro's looking for him. 

SUSANNA 

aside 

Oh heaven! 

aloud 

He's looking for the one 

Who, after you, hates him most. 

COUNT 

aside 

We'll see how I am served. 

BASILIO 

I've never heard the proposition 

That one who loves the wife must hate the husband. To tell you how the Count loves you ... 

SUSANNA 

Begone, base agent 

for another's lust: 

I don't need 

Your propositions, 

Your Count and his love ... 

BASILIO 

There's no harm done: everyone 

To his own taste: I'd have thought 

That for a lover you'd prefer, 

Like any other woman, 

A generous, prudent, and discreet nobleman To a youngster, a page?boy ... 

SUSANNA 

To Cherubino? 

BASILIO 

To Cherubino, that amorous cherub 

Who at daybreak this morning 

Was prowling about here 

Trying to get in ... 

SUSANNA 

Slanderer! 

It's an invention!

BASILIO 

To you, anyone who keeps his eyes open Is a slanderer. And that little song? Tell me in confidence: I'm a friend and won't let it go any further; 

Was it for you, or for my lady ... 

SUSANNA 

bewildered, aside 

Who on earth told him about that? 

BASILIO 

By the way, my daughter, 

It would be wise to warn him: 

At table he gazes at her so often And with such avidity, 

That if the Count noticed ... On that point, You know, he's ferocious. 

SUSANNA 

You wretch! 

Why do you go around 

Spreading such lies? 

BASILIO 

I? You wrong me: I sell only what I buy. I don't add a jot 

To what everyone is saying. 

COUNT 

Emerging from his hiding?place Really, what is everyone saying? 

BASILIO 

Very pretty! 

SUSANNA 

Oh heaven! 

Trio 

COUNT 

to Basilio 

What do I hear? Go at once 

And send the seducer packing. 

BASILIO 

My presence is ill?timed.

Pray excuse me, my lord. 

SUSANNA 

almost fainting 

Unhappy me, I'm ruined! 

I'm overcome with misery. 

BASILIO and COUNT 

supporting Susanna 

Ah! the poor child's fainted! 

Lord, how her heart is beating! 

BASILIO 

Gently, gently, on to this seat. 

They draw her towards the chair to let her sit down. 

SUSANNA 

reviving 

Where am I? What's going on? 

How dare you! Go away! 

She repulses them both. 

COUNT 

We're only helping you; 

Do not be alarmed, my dear. 

BASILIO 

We're only helping you; 

Your honour is quite safe. 

to the Count 

What I said about the page 

Was only my suspicion. 

SUSANNA 

It's a plot, it's quite untrue; 

Don't believe this deceiver. 

COUNT 

That young fop must go. 

SUSANNA and BASILIO 

Poor boy! 

COUNT 

Poor boy! 

I've found him out again.

SUSANNA 

How so? What? 

BASILIO 

What? How so? 

COUNT 

Yesterday I found 

Your cousin's door locked; 

I knocked, and Barbarina opened it 

More flustered than usual, 

My suspicions aroused by her appearance, 

I looked and searched in every corner, 

And very, very softly 

Lifting the tablecloth, 

There I saw the page ... 

He illustrates his actions with the dress and discovers the page. Ah, what do I see? 

SUSANNA 

Oh, cruel heavens! 

BASILIO 

laughing 

Better and better! 

COUNT 

You paragon of virtue! 

Now I see how it is. 

SUSANNA 

Nothing worse could come about. 

Heavens above, what's to happen? 

BASILIO 

Every woman's alike! 

There's nothing new about it. 

Recitative 

COUNT 

Basilio, go off 

To Figaro at once. 

I want him to see... 

pointing to Cherubino, who does not move 

SUSANNA 

And I want him to hear: go on.

COUNT 

to Basilio 

Wait! 

to Susanna 

What assurance! What's your excuse When your guilt is obvious? 

SUSANNA 

Virtue has no need of excuses. 

COUNT 

But when did he come in? 

SUSANNA 

He was with me 

When you came in here, 

And was asking me to beg my lady To intercede for him: your arrival Threw us into confusion, 

And so he did himself in there. 

COUNT 

But I sat down there myself 

When I came into the room! 

CHERUBINO 

Then I hid myself behind it. 

COUNT 

And when I placed myself there? 

CHERUBINO 

Then I quietly crept round and hid here. 

COUNT 

to Susanna 

Heavens! Then he heard 

All that I was saying to you? 

CHERUBINO 

I did everything I could not to hear. 

COUNT 

Deceitful boy! 

BASILIO 

Restrain yourself: someone's coming.

COUNT 

to Cherubino 

And you're still there, you little viper! 

dragging him out of the chair 

SCENE EIGHT 

Enter Figaro with a white veil in his hand; villagers dressed in white scatter before the Count flowers arranged in little baskets. 

Recitative 

COUNT 

in surprise to Figaro 

What's all this nonsense? 

FIGARO 

aside to Susanna 

Here we go: 

Back me up, my dear. 

SUSANNA 

aside to Figaro 

I'm not hopeful. 

FIGARO 

to the Count 

My lord, do not disdain 

This humble expression of our affection. 

Now that you've abolished 

A privilege so painful to lovers... 

COUNT 

That privilege exists no more: what now? 

FIGARO 

Today we've come to gather the first fruit 

Of your generosity: our wedding 

Is already arranged: may it please you 

To crown her, whom this gift of yours 

Has preserved spotless, with this 

White veil, symbol of virtue. 

COUNT 

aside 

Devilish sly! 

But I must dissemble. 

aloud

My friends, I thank you 

For your honest feelings, 

But for this I do not deserve 

Any tribute or praise: 

It was an unjust privilege, 

And by abolishing it in my domain I have restored to nature and duty their rights. 

ALL 

Hurrah! hurrah! hurrah! 

SUSANNA 

What nobility! 

FIGARO 

What justice! 

COUNT 

to Figaro and Susanna 

To you I promise 

To perform the ceremony, 

But give me leave a while. 

I wish to complete your happiness 

Before my closest friends and in richest style. aside 

Marcellina must be found. 

aloud 

Leave me, friends. 

Chorus 

VILLAGERS 

scattering the remaining flowers 

Blithe maids, 

Scatter flowers 

Before our 

Noble lord. 

His generous heart 

Has preserved intact for you 

The chaste purity 

Of a still fairer flower. 

Exeunt villagers. 

Recitative  

FIGARO 

Hurrah!

SUSANNA 

Hurrah! 

BASILIO 

Hurrah! 

FIGARO 

to Cherubino 

And you're not cheering? 

SUSANNA 

He's unhappy, poor boy, 

Because my lord has dismissed him from the palace. 

FIGARO 

On this happiest of days! 

SUSANNA 

On a wedding day! 

FIGARO 

When everyone applauds you! 

CHERUBINO 

kneeling 

Forgive me, my lord.. 

COUNT 

You don't deserve it. 

SUSANNA 

He's still a child. 

COUNT 

Less so than you think. 

CHERUBINO 

I did wrong, I know; but I'll never mention... 

COUNT 

raising him 

Enough, enough: I pardon you. 

Nay, I'll do more: there is a vacancy 

For an officer in my regiment; 

I nominate you; go at once; goodbye. 

He turns to go; Susanna and Figaro stop him. SUSANNA and FIGARO

Ah! just until tomorrow... 

COUNT 

No, he must go at once. 

CHERUBINO 

I'm ready, my lord, and will obey you. 

COUNT 

Then embrace Susanna 

For the last time. 

aside 

That took them by surprise. 

Exeunt the Count and Basilio. 

Cherubino embraces Susanna, who stands confused. 

FIGARO 

to Cherubino 

Well, captain, won't you give me your hand? aside 

Before you go 

I want a word with you. 

aloud, with assumed joy 

Goodbye, master Cherubino! 

How your fate changes in a moment! 

Aria 

FIGARO 

No more, you amorous butterfly, 

Will you go fluttering round by night and day, Disturbing the peace of every maid, 

You pocket Narcissus, you Adonis of love. 

No more will you have those fine feathers, That light and dashing cap, 

Those curls, those airs and graces, 

That roseate womanish colour. 

You'll be among warriors, by Bacchus! 

Long moustaches, knapsack tightly on, 

Musket on your shoulder, sabre at your side, Head erect and bold of visage, 

A great helmet or a head?dress, 

Lots of honour, little money, 

And instead of the fandango, 

Marching through the mud. 

Over mountains, through valleys,

In snow and days of listless heat, 

To the sound of blunderbusses, 

Shells and cannons, 

Whose shots make your ears sing 

On every note. 

Cherubino, on to victory, 

On to military glory! 

Exeunt omnes to the sound of a march. 

ACT TWO 

SCENE ONE 

A handsome room with an alcove, a dressing-room on the left, a door in the background - leading to theservants' quarters - and a window at the side. 

The Countess, alone. 

Cavatina 

COUNTESS 

O love, bring some relief 

To my sorrow, to my sighs; 

O give me back my loved one 

Or in mercy let me die. 

Enter Susanna 

SCENE TWO 

Recitative 

COUNTESS 

Come in, dear Susanna, 

And tell me the rest ofthe story. 

SUSANNA 

There's no more to tell. 

COUNTESS 

So he tried to make love to you? 

SUSANNA 

Oh, his lordship

Doesn't pay such compliment 

To girls like me; 

He came to offer me money. 

COUNTESS 

Cruel man, he loves me no longer! 

SUSANNA 

Yet how 

Can he be jealous of you? 

COUNTESS 

That is the way 

Of modern husbands: on principle Unfaithful, by nature fickle, 

And by pride all jealous. 

But if Figaro loves you ... Only he could 

FIGARO 

singing off-stage 

La la la ... 

La la la ... 

entering 

SUSANNA 

Here he is! Come in, friend: 

My lady's getting anxious ... 

FIGARO 

You've no cause 

To be worried about that. 

After all, what's it all about? 

My bride attracts his lordship. 

And so he'd like 

Secretly to revive 

His feudal right: 

It's all possible and natural. 

COUNTESS 

Possible! 

SUSANNA 

And natural! 

FIGARO 

Very natural! 

SUSANNA

Have done with you! 

FIGARO 

I've done. 

That's why he decided 

To choose me as courier, and Susanna As confidential attachée to the embassy; And because she persistently refuses The post of honour he had planned for her, He threatens to favour Marcellina. 

That's the whole story. 

SUSANNA 

And you're so bold as to treat lightly So serious a matter? 

FIGARO 

Aren't you glad I can 

Treat it lightly? Here's my plan. 

to the Countess 

By Basilio I've sent a letter 

Warning his lordship 

About an assignation 

Which you've made with a lover 

For the time of the ball. 

COUNTESS 

Oh heaven! what do I hear? 

To so jealous a man! ... 

FIGARO 

All the better; 

The more easily can we harass him, 

Confuse him, embroil him, 

Foil his designs, 

Fill him with suspicions, and make him Realise that this new game which 

He's trying to play on me can be played on him; So let him waste his time in fruitless search. Then, without him having made any plan To prevent us, the time of our wedding will suddenly be upon us, and in your presence indicating the Countess 

He 'd not dare to oppose it. 

SUSANNA 

That's true, but in his stead 

Marcellina will oppose it.

FIGARO 

Wait: quickly let the Count know That towards evening 

You'll be waiting in the garden: We'll get young Cherubino, 

Whom I advised not to leave just yet, To go there in your place, 

Dressed as a woman. 

If monsieur is caught by milady, This is the only way by which He can be made to grant her wishes. 

COUNTESS 

to Susanna 

What do you think? 

SUSANNA 

Not bad. 

COUNTESS 

In our situation ... 

SUSANNA 

When he's determined ... 

COUNTESS 

Have we time enough? 

FIGARO 

The Count has gone out hunting, And won't be back for some hours; He is about to go 

I'll go and send Cherubino 

To you at once; I leave to you The task of disguising him. 

COUNTESS 

And then? 

FIGARO 

And then ... 

If, my dear Count, 

You feel Ii ke dancing, 

It's I 

Who'll call the tune. 

Exit

SCENE THREE 

Recitative 

COUNTESS 

I'm grieved, Susanna. 

That that youth should have overheard The Count's follies: you just don't know … But why ever did he 

Not come straight to me? 

Where's his song? 

SUSANNA 

Here it is: and when he comes 

Let's make him sing it. 

Hush, someone's coming: it's he. Enter Cherubino 

Come in, my gallant captain. 

CHERUBINO 

Oh don't call me by that 

Horrid title! It reminds me 

That I am forced to leave 

A godmother so kind. 

SUSANNA 

And so beautiful! 

CHERUBINO 

sighing 

Ah ... yes ... indeed! 

SUSANNA 

imitating him 

Ah ... yes,... indeed ... hypocrite! Make haste, sing to my lady 

The song you gave to me 

This morning. 

COUNTESS 

Who wrote it? 

SUSANNA 

indicating Cherubino 

Look: he's blushing 

All over his face. 

COUNTESS 

Take my guitar

And accompany him. 

CHERUBINO 

I'm all a-tremble ... 

But if my lady wishes ... 

SUSANNA 

Yes, indeed she does … don't keep her waiting. She plays the introduction on the guitar Arietta 

CHERUBINO 

You ladies 

Who know what love is, 

See if it is 

What I have in my heart. 

All that I feel 

I will explain; 

Since it is new to me, 

I don't understand it. 

I have a feeling 

Full of desire, 

Which now is pleasure, 

Now is torment. 

I freeze, then I feel 

My spirit all ablaze, 

And the next moment 

Turn again to ice. 

I seek for a treasure 

Outside of myself; 

I know not who holds it 

Nor what it is. 

I sigh and I groan 

Without wishing to, 

I flutter and tremble 

Without knowing why. 

I find no peace 

By night or day, 

But yet to languish thus 

Is sheer delight. 

You ladies 

Who know what love is, 

See if it is 

What I have in my heart. 

Recitative

COUNTESS 

Bravo! a charming voice! 

I didn't know you sang so well. 

SUSANNA 

Oh, I must say 

Everything he does, he does well. 

Come along, handsome soldier; 

Figaro will have told you ... 

CHERUBINO 

He's told me everything. 

SUSANNA 

Let me see: this will do splendidly. 

We are of equal height … Off with your jacket. 

She takes off his jacket 

COUNTESS 

What are you doing? 

SUSANNA 

There's nothing to fear. 

COUNTESS 

But if someone should come in? 

SUSANNA 

Let him, what harm are we doing? 

But I'll lock the door. 

She does so 

But how am l 

To dress his hair? 

COUNTESS 

Take one of my caps 

From my dressing-room. 

Quickly! 

Susanna goes into the dressing-room to get a cap: Cherubino approaches the Countess and shows her his commission, which is sticking out of his breast pocket. The Countess takes it, opens it and notices that the seal is missing. 

What is this paper? 

CHERUBINO 

My commission.

COUNTESS 

They're in a hurry! 

CHERUBINO 

I've just had it from Basilio. 

COUNTESS 

In their haste they've forgotten the seal. 

She returns it to him 

SUSANNA 

coming back 

What seal? 

COUNTESS 

Of his commission. 

SUSANNA 

What, so soon! 

Here's the cap. 

COUNTESS 

to Susanna 

Hurry! That's right. 

Woe betide us if the Count should come. 

Aria 

SUSANNA 

She takes Cherubino with her and makes him kneel before her, a little way from the Countess who sits down. 

Come ... kneel down ... 

Stay still here ... 

Keep quiet; now turn round ... 

Bravo ... that's very good. 

Now turn and face me, 

Cherubino looks tenderly toward the Countess. 

Here! your eyes towards me ... 

Look straight in front at me ... 

My lady isn't here. 

That collar a bit higher. 

Those eyes cast down, 

Your hands folded before you ... 

Then let's see how you walk 

When you're on your feet. 

aside to the Countess 

Look at the little rascal, 

Isn't he handsome?

What roguish glances, 

What airs, what graces! 

If women fall in love with him, 

They have good reason why. 

Recitative 

COUNTESS 

This is too silly! 

SUSANNA 

I'm almost inclined 

To bejealous myself. 

taking Cherubino by the chin 

You little scamp, 

You've no right to look so pretty! 

COUNTESS 

No more of this childishness! 

Now pull these sleeves up 

Above the elbow, 

Then the dress will go on 

More comfortably. 

SUSANNA 

doing so 

There! 

COUNTESS 

Still higher, 

Like that ... 

She discovers a ribbon tied round his arm. What's this ribbon? 

SUSANNA 

That's the one he stole from me. 

COUNTESS 

untying the ribbon 

And this blood? 

CHERUBINO 

Blood? ... I don't know how ... 

I slipped a little while ago 

And grazed myself against a stone So I tied up the scratch with this ribbon. 

SUSANNA 

Let's see: it's nothing much. Look!

His arm's whiter than mine! Like a girl's ... 

COUNTESS 

Are you still chattering? 

Go into my room, and fetch a piece 

Of plaster which is on my desk. 

Exit Susanna. The Countess looks hard at the kneeling Cherubino. As for this ribbon ... I'd say ... 

examining the ribbon 

By the colour ... 

I'm sorry to have lost it ... 

SUSANNA 

re-entering with the plaster and scissors 

Here you are. 

Now what to tie his arm with? 

COUNTESS 

Bring another ribbon 

Along with my dress. 

Exit Susanna by the rear door, taking with her Cherubino's mantle. 

CHERUBINO 

Ah! that one would have healed me faster. 

COUNTESS 

Why? This one is better. 

CHERUBINO 

But when a ribbon 

Has bound the hair, or touched the skin 

Of some ... 

COUNTESS 

interrupting him 

... other person, 

It's good for wounds, is that it? 

That's a virtue I was not aware of! 

CHERUBINO 

My lady mocks me when I must leave her. 

COUNTESS 

Poor boy, it's hard! 

CHERUBINO 

I'm so unhappy!

COUNTESS 

What, crying? 

CHERUBINO 

Oh heaven! would that I could die now! 

Perhaps near the final moment 

These lips would dare ... 

COUNTESS 

Be sensible: what is this nonsense? 

She wipes his eyes with her handkerchief. A knock at the door is heard. Who's knocking at the door? 

SCENE FOUR 

COUNT 

outside the door 

Why is this locked? 

COUNTESS 

My husband! Oh heavens! I'm lost! 

to Cherubino 

You here without a coat on! 

In this state; he'll have had that letter ... 

And he's so jealous! 

COUNT 

What is delaying you? 

COUNTESS 

I'm alone ... yes, all alone. 

COUNT 

To whom were you talking? 

COUNTESS 

To you ... of course, to you. 

CHERUBINO 

After what's happened, he'll be furious ... 

I don't know what to do! 

Cherubino runs into the dressing-room and locks the door; the Countess takes the key. 

COUNTESS 

Heaven protect me in this danger! 

She hurries to open the door to the Count.

SCENE FIVE 

COUNT 

entering 

What does this mean? You never used 

To lock yourself in your room! 

COUNTESS 

I know; but I ... 

I was in here trying … 

COUNT 

Go on, trying ... 

COUNTESS 

... some clothes on ... 

Susanna was with me ... 

But now she's gone to her room. 

COUNT 

In any case, 

You seem perturbed: 

Look at this letter. 

COUNTESS 

aside 

Heavens! it's the letter 

Figaro wrote him! 

Cherubino noisily knocks over a table and chair in the dressing-room. 

COUNT 

What is that noise? 

Something fell in your room. 

COUNTESS 

I heard nothing. 

COUNT 

You must have weighty matters on your mind. 

COUNTESS 

Of what? 

COUNT 

There's someone there.

COUNTESS 

Who do you think it could be? 

COUNT 

I'm asking you ... 

I've only just come in. 

COUNTESS 

Ah yes, Susanna ... of course. 

COUNT 

But you told me she went to her room. 

COUNTESS 

To hers or mine, I didn't notice ... 

COUNT 

Then why, if it's Susanna, 

Are you so agitated? 

COUNTESS 

with a forced smile 

About my maid. 

COUNT 

I don't know; 

But certainly you're agitated ... 

COUNTESS 

Rather than agitating me, 

Which she doesn't, my maid is agitating you. 

COUNT 

That's true indeed, as you'll see. 

SCENE SIX 

Susanna enters by the door through which she went out, but slops on seeing the Count, who is talking by the dressing-room door. 

Trio 

COUNT 

Susanna, come out of there, 

Come out, I command you. 

COUNTESS 

distressed, to the Count 

No, stop ... listen ...

She can't come out. 

SUSANNA 

aside 

What's this row about? 

Where has the page got to? 

COUNT 

And who dares forbid it? 

COUNTESS 

Decency forbids it. 

She's in there 

Trying on her wedding dress. 

COUNT 

aside 

It's all too plain: 

There's a lover in there. 

COUNTESS 

aside 

It's all too horrible: 

Whatever will happen? 

SUSANNA 

aside 

I think I understand: 

Let's see how things work out. 

COUNT 

Well, at least speak, 

Susanna, if you're there ... 

COUNTESS 

No, no, you're not to. 

towards the door 

I order you, be silent. 

Susanna hides in the alcove. 

COUNTESS and COUNT Be careful, pray! 

Try to avoid 

An open scandal. 

SUSANNA 

aside 

Oh heaven! There's bound to be

A catastrophe, 

An open scandal. 

Recitative 

COUNT 

Then you won't open it? 

COUNTESS 

Why do I have 

To open my own room? 

COUNT 

Very well then; as you please ... 

We'll open it without the key ... Ho there! 

COUNTESS 

What? 

Would you hazard 

A lady's reputation? 

COUNT 

That's true; I was in error. 

I can go myself and bring the tools 

Without any outcry 

Or scandal before the servants. 

Kindly remain here ... 

But so that my suspicions 

Shall be completely quieted, 

First of all I'll lock the other doors. 

He locks the door leading to the servant's quarters. 

COUNTESS 

aside 

What folly! 

COUNT 

You will have the goodness 

To come with me. 

Let me offer you my arm. Let's go. 

COUNTESS 

Let's go. 

COUNT 

indicating the dressing-room 

Susanna will have to stay there till we return.

Exeunt 

SCENE SEVEN 

Susanna hurries out of the alcove. 

Duettino 

SUSANNA 

at the door of the dressing-room 

Open quickly, open; 

Open, it's Susanna. 

Come out of there ... 

You must get away at once. 

Cherubino comes out of the dressing-room. 

CHERUBINO 

Oh dear, what a terrible scene! 

What a dreadful thing to happen! 

They try first one door, then another, but find them all locked. 

SUSANNA 

Leave without delay! 

That way, that way. 

SUSANNA and CHERUBINO 

The doors are locked. 

Whatever shall we do? 

CHERUBINO 

We can't give up. 

SUSANNA 

He'll kill you if he finds you. 

CHERUBINO 

He'll kill me if he finds me. 

Just let me look outside here. 

He goes to the window overlooking the garden. It gives on to the garden. 

He is about to jump out; Susanna stops him. 

SUSANNA 

Stop, Cherubino! 

She goes to look, but steps back. 

Don't, for pity's sake!

CHERUBINO 

Let me go: rather than harm her 

I'd leap into the fire. 

I embrace her through you. 

freeing himself from Susanna. 

Farewell; so be it! 

SUSANNA 

He'll kill himself, for certain. 

Stop, for pity's sake! 

Cherubino jumps out; Susanna lets out a shriek, sits down for a moment, then goes to the balcony. 

Recitative 

Just look at the little demon! How he runs! 

He's a mile away already. 

There's no time to lose, though. 

I'll go into the dressing-room: 

Let the blusterer come: I'm ready for him. 

Susanna goes into the dressing-room and locks the door behind her. 

SCENE EIGHT 

Re-enter the Countess and the Count with tools for opening the door: he examines all the doors. 

COUNT 

All is as I left it; so will you 

Open it yourself, or must I ... 

He is about to force the door open. 

COUNTESS 

Alas! Stay 

And hear me for a moment. 

The Count throws the hammer and pincers on a chair. 

Do you think me capable 

Of failing in my duty? 

COUNT 

As you please. 

I'm going into that room 

To see who's locked in there. 

COUNTESS 

Yes, you'll see ... 

But listen to me calmly.

COUNT 

So it's not Susanna! 

COUNTESS 

No, but it's someone else 

Whom you could not reasonably Allow yourself to suspect: for tonight I was preparing a harmless 

Diversion ... and I swear to you In honour ... in honesty ... 

COUNT 

Who is it? Tell me ... 

I'll kill him. 

COUNTESS 

Listen. 

Oh, I dare not. 

COUNT 

Speak out. 

COUNTESS 

He's a child ... 

COUNT 

A child? ... 

COUNTESS 

Yes, Cherubino. 

COUNT 

aside 

Has destiny decreed that I'm to find That page wherever I go? 

aloud 

What! Hasn't he gone? The scoundrels! This explains my doubts, the confusion, The plot of which the letter warned me. 

Finale 

COUNT 

vehemently, at the dressing-room door Now out you come, you imp of Satan, You villain, without delay. 

COUNTESS 

restraining the Count by force

Oh my lord, your anger 

Makes my heart tremble for him. 

COUNT 

You still dare to cross me? 

COUNTESS 

No, listen ... 

COUNT 

Go on, speak. 

COUNTESS 

I swear to heaven that your suspicions ... The state in which you'll find him ... His collar untied ... his chest bare ... 

COUNT 

His collar untied? ... his chest bare? ... Pray continue ... 

COUNTESS 

So as to dress him up as a woman. 

COUNT 

Ah, I see; you shameless creature, 

I'll punish him for this! 

He goes to the dressing-room, then turns back. 

COUNTESS 

Your anger does me wrong, 

Your suspicion is an insult. 

COUNT 

Give me the key! 

COUNTESS 

He is innocent, 

And you know it ... 

She hands him the key. 

COUNT 

I know nothing of the sort. 

Hence from my sight! 

You are faithless, wanton ... 

You've sought to disgrace me. 

COUNTESS 

I'll go ... yes ... but...

COUNT 

I'll not hear you. 

COUNTESS 

I am guiltless. 

COUNT 

I can read it in your face. 

He shall die, die and I'll be rid 

Of the source of all my torment! 

COUNTESS 

Oh, to what extreme will 

His blind fury lead him? 

The Count opens the dressing-room and Susanna steps out, staying in the doorway. 

SCENE NINE 

COUNT and COUNTESS 

Susanna! 

SUSANNA 

My lord! 

Why this astonishment? 

You've drawn your sword 

To kill the page, 

Well, here you see 

That imp of Satan. 

COUNT 

aside 

What do I see? 

My head is spinning. 

COUNTESS 

aside 

What can have happened? 

Susanna in there? 

SUSANNA 

aside 

They're both baffled 

And can't understand. 

COUNT 

to Susanna

Are you alone? 

SUSANNA 

Look and see 

Who can be hidden there. 

COUNT 

Let's see, let's see, 

Who is hidden in there. 

He goes into the dressing-room. 

COUNTESS 

Susanna, I'm fainting; 

I can't breathe. 

SUSANNA 

gaily, showing the Countess the window from which Cherubino jumped Don't worry, take heart now, 

He's already in safety. 

COUNT 

coming out in confusion 

How could I make such a mistake! 

I can hardly believe it. 

If I did you wrong, 

I beg your forgiveness; 

But to play such a jest 

Is sheer cruelty. 

SUSANNA and COUNTESS 

The Countess holds a handkerchief to her lips to cover her perturbation. Your wild accusations 

Do not deserve to be pardoned. 

COUNT 

I love you! 

COUNTESS 

Do not say that! 

COUNT 

I swear it! 

COUNTESS 

That is untrue! 

I'm a faithless, wanton creature 

Who's always deceiving you.

COUNT 

Help me, Susanna, 

To calm her anger. 

SUSANNA 

This is the punishment 

For your suspicions. 

COUNTESS 

So this is the reward 

I can expect 

For the loyalty 

Of my faithful heart! 

SUSANNA 

pleading 

My lady! 

COUNT 

Rosina! 

COUNTESS 

Cruel man! 

I am no longer she, 

But the wretched object 

Of your neglect, 

Whom you delight 

To make suffer. 

SUSANNA and COUNT Confused and repentant, I’m (he's) sufficiently punished; Have pity now. 

COUNTESS 

Cruel man! 

My heart cannot bear 

So great a wrong. 

COUNT 

But the page locked in there? ... 

COUNTESS 

It was only to test you. 

COUNT 

And all your trembling? ... COUNTESS

Only to tease you. 

COUNT 

But this cruel letter? ... 

SUSANNA and COUNTESS 

Figaro wrote it, 

And sent it by Basilio ... 

COUNT 

The traitors! I'll ... 

SUSANNA and COUNTESS 

He who can't forgive others 

Doesn't deserve to be forgiven. 

COUNT 

Well then, ifyou will, 

Let's make peace all round; 

Rosina, do not be 

So harsh to me. 

COUNTESS 

Oh Susanna, 

How soft-hearted I am! 

Who would ever believe 

In a woman's fury? 

SUSANNA 

With men, my lady, 

You turn and turn about, 

But you see it always 

Ends like this. 

COUNT 

Look at me ... 

COUNTESS 

Ungrateful! 

COUNT 

I wronged you, and I repent it! 

He kisses the Countess's hand repeatedly. 

ALL THREE 

From this moment 

My (his) heart will learn 

To know you (me, her) better.

SCENE TEN 

FIGARO 

entering 

My lord and lady, 

The musicians are outside: 

You can hear 

The trumpeters and the pipers. 

With the singing and dancing 

Of your vassals, 

Let us hasten 

To celebrate our wedding! 

He takes Susanna by the arm and is about to lead her off; the Count detains him. 

COUNT 

One moment: not so fast. 

FIGARO 

The crowd is waiting. 

COUNT 

Before you go, 

Remove a doubt of mine. 

SUSANNA, COUNTESS and FIGARO 

aside 

This is getting difficult; 

How will it end? 

COUNT 

aside 

Now I must 

Play my cards carefully. 

showing the letter received from Basilio 

Master Figaro, do you know 

Who penned this letter? 

FIGARO 

pretending to examine it 

I've no idea. 

SUSANNA, COUNTESS and COUNT 

to Figaro 

You've no idea? 

FIGARO 

No, no.

SUSANNA 

Didn't you give it to Don Basilio? 

COUNTESS 

To deliver? 

COUNT 

You're deceiving me. 

FIGARO 

No, no. 

SUSANNA 

And you don't know about the gallant ... 

COUNTESS 

This evening in the garden ... 

COUNT 

You know now ... 

FIGARO 

I've no idea. 

COUNT 

In vain you seek a defence or an excuse. Your very face accuses you; 

I can se you're trying to lie. 

FIGARO 

My face is the liar, not I! 

SUSANNA and COUNTESS 

to Figaro 

You sharpen your wits in vain; We've revealed the secret, 

There's no more to be said. 

COUNT 

What's your answer? 

FIGARO 

Nothing, nothing. 

COUNT 

So you admit it? 

FIGARO

No, I don't, sir. 

SUSANNA and COUNTESS 

to Figaro 

Hold your tongue, stupid, 

This comedy must be ended. 

FIGARO 

taking Susanna by the arm 

Then to end it happily 

According to theatrical practice, 

Let a marriage ceremony 

Now follow. 

SUSANNA, COUNTESS and FIGARO 

to the Count 

Oh my lord, do not refuse; 

Grant my (their) wishes. 

COUNT 

aside 

Marcellina, Marcellina, 

How slow you are in coming! 

SCENE ELEVEN 

Antonio the gardener comes in furiously with a broken pot of carnations. 

ANTONIO 

Oh my lord ... mylord ... 

COUNT 

What's the matter? 

ANTONIO 

How dare he! Who did it? What was it? 

COUNTESS, SUSANNA, COUNT and FIGARO 

What's he saying? What's wrong? What's happened? 

ANTONIO 

Listen. 

COUNTESS, SUSANNA, COUNT and FIGARO 

Go on, then, speak. 

ANTONIO 

Every day I see all kinds of things thrown 

From the balcony overlooking the garden;

But just now (it couldn't be worse) I saw a man, my lord, thrown down! 

COUNT 

From the balcony? 

ANTONIO 

D'you see these carnations? 

showing them the broken flower-pot 

COUNT 

Into the garden? 

ANTONIO 

Yes! 

SUSANNA and COUNTESS 

aside to Figaro 

Figaro, think quickly! 

COUNT 

What do I hear? 

SUSANNA, COUNTESS, and FIGARO aside 

He's taken aback. 

aloud 

What's this drunkard doing in here? 

COUNT 

to Antonio 

So you saw a man: where did he get to? 

ANTONIO 

The scroundrel took to his heels And was out of sight at once. 

SUSANNA 

aside to Figaro 

You must know it was the page ... 

FIGARO 

aside to Susanna 

I know, I saw him. 

laughing loudly 

Ha, ha, ha! 

COUNT

to Figaro 

Be quiet,sir. 

ANTONIO 

to Figaro 

What's there to laugh at? 

FIGARO 

to Anionio 

You're drunk from morn till night. 

COUNT 

to Antonio 

Now tell me again, a man from the balcony? 

ANTONIO 

From the balcony. 

COUNT 

Into the garden? 

ANTONIO 

Into the garden. 

SUSANNA, COUNTESS and FIGARO My lord, it's the wine in him talking! 

COUNT 

Go on though: didn't you see his face? 

ANTONIO 

No, I didn't. 

SUSANNA and COUNTESS 

aside to Figaro 

Figaro, did you hear that? 

FIGARO 

to Antonio 

You whining old fool, do be quiet Making such a fuss over nothing! scornfully touching the carnations Since the fact can't be concealed, 

It was I who jumped down from there. 

COUNT and ANTONIO 

What? It was you? 

SUSANNA and COUNTESS

aside 

What presence of mind! 

FIGARO 

Why so surprised? 

COUNT 

I just can't believe it. 

ANTONIO 

to Figaro 

How have you grown so tall, then? 

After the jump you weren't so big. 

FIGARO 

Jumping does that to one. 

ANTONIO 

Who'd have thought it? 

SUSANNA and COUNTESS 

aside 

The fool is persistent! 

COUNT 

to Antonio 

You, what do you say? 

ANTONIO 

It looked like that boy to me. 

COUNT 

Cherubino! 

SUSANNA and COUNTESS 

aside 

Wretched man! 

FIGARO 

Of course, it was he, 

Back on horseback from Seville, 

From Seville where he'd been. 

ANTONIO 

No, no, that's not so. 

I didn't see any horse jump down. 

COUNT 

Give me patience! Let's have done with this nonsense.

SUSANNA AND COUNTESS 

aside 

Merciful heaven, how will this end? 

COUNT 

violently, to Figaro 

So it was you ... 

FIGARO 

... who jumped down. 

COUNT 

And why? 

FIGARO 

I was afraid ... 

COUNT 

Afraid of what? 

FIGAR0 

indicating the servants' quarters 

I was shut up in there 

Waiting for that dear little face ... 

There was an unusual coming and going 

And noise ... you were shouting, there was 

That letter ... I lost my nerve and jumped 

Down in terror and wrenched a muscle in my foot! rubbing his foot as if he had hurt it 

ANTONIO 

Then these letters which you dropped 

Will be yours? 

He hands some folded papers to Figaro: the Count seizes them. 

COUNT 

Here, give them to me. 

FIGARO 

aside to Susanna and the Countess 

I'm caught in a trap. 

SUSANNA AND COUNTESS 

aside to Figaro 

Figaro, think quickly!

COUNT 

opening the paper, then promptly refolding it 

Well, tell me, what's this paper? 

FIGARO 

Wait just a moment ... I've so many. 

He takes some letters from his pocket and pretends to look through them. 

ANTONIO 

I expect it'll be a list of his debts. 

FIGARO 

No, alist ofthe tavern-keepers. 

COUNT 

to Figaro 

Speak up. 

to Antonio 

And you, let him be. 

SUSANNA, COUNTESS and FIGARO 

Let him (me)be and go away! 

ANTONIO 

All right, I'll go, but if l catch you again! … 

Exit 

FIGARO 

Oh go away: I'm not afraid of you. 

COUNT 

opening the letter again and then refolding it; to Figaro Well? 

COUNTESS 

aside to Susanna 

Oh heavens! the page's commission! 

SUSANNA 

aside to Figaro 

Good Lord! the commission! 

COUNT 

ironically to Figaro 

Take courage! 

FIGARO 

as if recollecting something

Oh what a head! it's the commission The boy gave me a while ago. 

COUNT 

What for? 

FIGARO 

It lacked... 

COUNT 

It lacked? 

COUNTESS 

aside to Susanna 

The seal! 

SUSANNA 

aside to Figaro 

The seal! 

COUNT 

to Figaro, who pretends to be thinking Well, answer! 

FIGARO 

It'susual ... 

COUNT 

Go on, why hesitate? 

FIGARO 

It's usual to seal it. 

COUNT 

seeing the paper lacks the seal and tearing it up This rascal's driving me mad. 

throwing the paper aside in a fury 

The whole thing's a mystery to me. 

SUSANNA and COUNTESS 

aside 

If I survive this storm 

I'll fear no further shipwreck. 

FIGARO 

aside 

In vain you fume and stamp, sir, 

You'll get nothing out of me.

SCENE TWELVE 

MARCELLINA, BASILIO and BARTOLO entering, to the Count 

Oh my just and noble lord, 

Hear us now, we pray. 

COUNT 

aside 

They've come to work my vengeance. I feel consoled. 

SUSANNA, COUNTESS and FIGARO aside 

They've come to foil me. 

What solution can there be? 

FIGARO 

They're three stupid blockheads. 

What are they doing here? 

COUNT 

Now quiet: without interruption 

Let each say what he wishes. 

MARCELLINA 

This man has made a contract 

Promising to marry me; 

And I request that the contract 

Shall be ratified. 

SUSANNA, COUNTESS and FIGARO What'sthis? 

COUNT 

I will have silence. 

This is for me to judge. 

BARTOLO 

I represent this lady 

And appear here as her counsel; 

I come to argue 

Her legitimate plea. 

SUSANNA, COUNTESS and FIGARO He s a rogue! 

COUNT

Keep quiet, there; 

This is for me to judge. 

BASILIO 

As a man of standing, 

I come here as a witness 

Of the promised marriage, 

On which she lent him money, 

SUSANNA, COUNTESS and FIGARO 

They'reall mad. 

COUNT 

Let's see it, 

Let us read the contract. 

Everything must be done in proper order. 

SUSANNA, COUNTESS and FIGARO 

aside 

I'm stunned and bewildered, 

Stupefied and desperate! 

he devil in hell for certain 

Has brought them here. 

MARCELLINA, BASILIO, BARTOLO and COUNT aside 

What a blow, what a splendid stroke, 

Everyone is baffled; 

Providence, that smiles on us, 

Has brought us (them) here. 

ACT THREE 

SCENE ONE 

A rich hall, with two thrones, prepared for the wedding ceremony. Recitative 

COUNT 

pacing up and down 

What a mix?up this is! 

An anonymous letter ... 

The maid locked in the dressing?room ... 

My lady flustered ... a man jumping down 

From the balcony into the garden ...then 

Another who claims it was he...

I don't know what to think: it might 

Have been one of my vassals ... such rabble 

Are bold enough ... but the Countess ... 

No, to doubt her is an insult ... 

She has too much respect for herself 

And for my honour ... my honour ... 

In which, dammit, human frailty exists! 

SCENE TWO 

Enter the Countess and Susanna; they stay in the background, unseen by the Count. 

COUNTESS 

Go on, tak c courage: tell him 

To meet you in the garden. 

COUNT 

to himself 

I'll find out if Cherubino 

Went to Seville: I've sent 

Basilio to enquire ... 

SUSANNA 

Oh heavens! if Figaro ... 

COUNTESS 

Say nothing of it to him: I myself 

Intend going in your place. 

COUNT 

Before this evening he should be back ... 

SUSANNA 

Oh Lord! I dare not. 

COUNTESS 

Reflect that my happiness is in your hands. 

She hides 

COUNT 

And Susanna? Who knows if she 

Has betrayed my secret? ...If she's spoken 

I'll make him marry the old woman. 

SUSANNA 

aside 

Marcellina! 

to the Count

My lord I. ... 

COUNT 

What do you want? 

SUSANNA 

I believe you're angry! 

COUNT 

What have you come for? 

SUSANNA 

My lord ... my lady 

Has the vapours, as usual. 

And requests your smelling salts. 

COUNT 

Take them. 

SUSANNA 

I’ll bring them back at once. 

COUNT 

No, you may keep them 

For yourself. 

SUSANNA 

For me? 

Such ailments are not 

For girls in my position. 

COUNT 

A girl who loses her bridegroom On the point of winning him ... 

SUSANNA 

Paying Marcellina off 

With the dowry you promised me … 

COUNT 

That I promised you? When? 

SUSANNA 

That's what I understood. 

COUNT 

Yes, if you had cared 

To come to an understanding.

SUSANNA 

It's my duty, 

And my lord's wish is my command. Duettino 

COUNT 

Cruel one, why have you 

Caused me thus to languish? 

SUSANNA 

My lord, a woman always 

Needs time before she says „Yes“. 

COUNT 

Then you'll come into the garden? 

SUSANNA 

If it pleases you, I'll come. 

COUNT 

You won't fail me? 

SUSANNA 

No, I won't fail you. 

COUNT 

You'll come? 

SUSANNA 

Yes. 

COUNT 

You'll not fail? 

SUSANNA 

No. 

COUNT 

You'll really come? 

SUSANNA 

No! 

COUNT 

No?! 

SUSANNA 

Yes!!

If it pleases you, I'll come. 

COUNT 

In contentment I feel 

My heart full of joy. 

SUSANNA 

aside 

Forgive my deception, 

You who truly love. 

Recitative 

COUNT 

Then why were you 

So distant to me this morning? 

SUSANNA 

With the page there ... 

COUNT 

And to Basilio, 

Who spoke on my behalf... 

SUSANNA 

But what need have we 

Of a Basilio ... 

COUNT 

That's true, indeed. 

Promise me again ... 

If you fail me, my dear ... 

But the Countess 

Will be waiting for the smelling salts. 

SUSANNA 

Oh, that was just a pretext; I couldn't Have spoken to you without one. 

COUNT 

taking her hand 

Dearest! 

SUSANNA 

Someone's coming. 

COUNT 

aside 

She's mine, I'm sure now.

SUSANNA 

aside 

Wipe off that smile, my cunning master. She is about to leave and near the door meets Figaro 

SCENE THREE 

FIGARO 

Susanna, where are you going? 

SUSANNA 

Hush. We've won our case 

Without a lawyer. 

Exit 

FIGARO 

What's happened? 

He follows her 

SCENE FOUR 

Recitative and Aria 

COUNT 

We've won our case! What do I hear! 

I've fallen into a trap! 

The traitors! 

I'll punish them so! The sentence 

Will be at my pleasure ... But supposing He has paid off the claims of the old woman? Paid her? How? ... and then there's Antonio Who'll refuse to give his niece in marriage To a Figaro, of whom nothing is known. If I play on the pride 

Of that half-wit ... 

Everything favours my plan ... 

The dice is cast. 

Must I see a serf of mine made happy 

While I am left to sigh, 

And him possess a treasure 

Which I desire in vain? 

Must I see her,

Who has roused in me a passion 

She does not feel for me, 

United by the hand of rlove to a base stave? 

Ah no, I will not give you 

The satisfaction of this contentment! 

You were not born, bold fellow, 

To cause me torment 

And indeed to laugh 

At my discomfiture. 

Now only the hope 

Of taking vengeance 

Eases my mind 

And make me rejoice. 

Exit 

SCENE FIVE 

Recitative 

DON CURZIO 

Entering; to Marcellina, Bartolo, the Count, and Figaro who follow him. The case is decided. 

"Pay up, or marry her." That's all. 

MARCELLINA 

I breathe again. 

FIGARO 

And I'm done for. 

MARCELLINA 

aside 

At last I'll be married to the man I love. 

FIGARO 

to the Count 

My lord, I appeal ... 

COUNT 

The judgment is fair: 

"Pay up, or marry her." Quite right, Don Curzio. 

DON CURZIO 

Your lordship is too kind. 

BARTOLO 

An excellent judgment!

FIGARO 

In what way excellent? 

BARTOLO 

We are all avenged. 

FIGARO 

I won't marry her. 

BARTOLO 

Oh yes, you will. 

DON CURZIO 

"Pay up, or marry her. " She lent you 

Two thousand pieces of silver. 

FIGARO 

I am of gentle birth, and without 

The consent of my noble parents ... 

COUNT 

Where are they? Who are they? 

FIGARO 

Let me goon looking fort hem; 

For ten years I've been hoping to find them. 

BARTOLO 

Were you a founding? ... 

FIGARO 

No, lost, doctor, or rather stolen. 

COUNT 

Stolen? 

MARCELLINA 

What's that? 

BARTOLO 

Your proof? 

DON CURZIO 

Your witness? 

FIGARO 

The gold, the jewels and the embroidered clothes Which, in my infancy,

The bandits found upon me Are the true indications 

Of my noble birth, and moreover This mark upon my arm. 

MARCELLINA 

A spatula on your right arm? 

FIGARO 

Who told you that? 

MARCELLINA 

Great heaven! 

It's he ... 

FIGARO 

It's I, indeed. 

DON CURZIO 

Who? 

COUNT 

Who? 

BARTOLO 

Who? 

MARCELLINA 

Raphael. 

BARTOLO 

And robbers stole you? 

FIGARO 

Near a castle. 

BARTOLO 

There stands your mother. 

FIGARO 

My nurse? ... 

BARTOLO 

No, your mother. 

COUNT and DON CURZIO His mother! 

FIGARO