General. (To Paul) What is that, my dear Sub-prefect—three years!
Mme. de Céran. Come, General!
General. (Still talking with Paul) Ah, yes, Countess, the tragedy!—You are right, one must encourage Art!—Five acts! Oh!
Jeanne. (To Paul) It’s settled then, about—later?
Paul. Yes, yes, it’s settled.
General. (Returning to Paul) Three years, you say, as Sub-prefect in the same place? And they say the government isn’t conservative!
Paul. That’s pretty good, Senator; excellent!
General. Oh!
Toulonnier. (To Madame de Loudan) That’s understood, Marquise! (To Madame Arriégo) At your service, my dear madame!
Bellac. (To Toulonnier) Well, General Secretary, may I hope——?