MAIRAUT. I tell you this is infamous! Infamous! I’ve thought so for a long time, ever since the day you wouldn’t let me speak out about Uncle Maréchal. I said nothing because I was afraid of you. For thirty years I have said nothing. But now this is too much, and I say what I think. It’s an infamy. Come what may, I will say it. Sit down. I tell you it’s an infamy. Rogues have been meddling with these children’s lives too long; it’s time for honest men to take a hand in them. I’m going to do it.
MME. MAIRAUT. Pay no attention to him. He’s out of his senses.
MAIRAUT. Be silent, you. M. and Madame Dupont, this is what I have to say to you. An effort must be made to reconcile Julie and Antonin. If this is impossible, I will pay you back the thirty thousand francs.
MME. MAIRAUT [with a scream] Good Heavens, what is he saying?
MAIRAUT. I will return the thirty thousand francs, and you’ll see after that if my precious son won’t be the first to talk of a divorce.
MME. MAIRAUT [to her husband] You shall pay for this when we get home.
MAIRAUT. As you please. And now be off, and be quick about it. [Madame Mairaut goes out]. Au revoir, M. and Madame Dupont. Do what you can on your side, and I will try and make Antonin come and beg his wife’s pardon.
DUPONT. Good evening, M. Mairaut.
MME. DUPONT. Count on me, M. Mairaut, and give me your hand. You’re a good man.