[BUQUET mysteriously appears, a length of fabric, serving as a cloak, and a piece of rope as the Punjab La**o. He is showing off to the BALLET GIRLS]
[BUQUET]
Like yellow parchment is his skin
A great black hole serves as the nose that never grew
[Demonstrating his method of self-defence against the Punjab la**o, he inserts his hand between his neck and the noose, and then pulls the rope taut. With a mixture of horror and delight, the BALLET GIRLS applaud this demonstration]
You must be always on your guard
Or he will catch you with his magical la**o!
[A trap opens up centre stage casting a shadow of the PHANTOM as he emerges. The GIRLS, linking hands, run off terrified. The PHANTOM, leading CHRISTINE, fixes his stare on BUQUET. Sweeping his cape around CHRISTINE, he exits with her. But before they go, GIRY has entered, observing. She turns on BUQUET]
[MADAME GIRY:]
Those who speak of what they know
Find too late, that prudent silence is wise
Joseph Buquet, hold your tongue
Keep your hand at the level of your eyes!