Duchess. (Looking out) Ah, here comes Toulonnier! And everybody, and dinner, too! Quick, go and dress! It will calm your nerves; you’re very pale.
Roger. Suzanne! It’s not possible! (He goes out)
Duchess. No, it’s not possible! And yet——!
(Enter Madame de Céran, Toulonnier, M. and Mme. de Saint-Réault and a moment later, Lucy, Madame de Loudan, Madame Arriégo, with Bellac in their midst.)
Mme. de Céran. (Introducing Toulonnier to the Duchess) The Secretary General, Aunt.
Toulonnier. (Bowing) Madame la duchesse!
Duchess. My dear Monsieur Toulonnier, we were just going to sit down without you.
Toulonnier. I hope you will pardon me, my dear Duchess, but—business, you know! We are literally up to the ears in work. You’ll permit me to leave early, I trust?
Duchess. With pleasure!
Mme. de Céran. (Embarrassed) Ah, Monsieur Bellac!