A post occupied by the company of CARBON DE CASTEL-JALOUX at the siege of Arras. In the background is an embankment across the whole stage. Beyond is a view of plains extending to the horizon. The countryside is covered with entrenchments. The walls of Arras and the outlines of its roofs can be seen in the distance. Tents, weapons, armor, and drums are strewn about. Day is breaking with a faint glimmer of yellow sunrise in the east. Sentinels keep watch at various points. Campfires are burning. The cadets of Gascony, wrapped in their cloaks, are sleeping. CARBON DE CASTEL-JALOUX and LE BRET are keeping watch. They are very pale and thin. CHRISTIAN sleeps among the others in his cloak in the foreground, his face illuminated by the fire. There is silence.