BRIGNAC. Yes, colonel. This is an important official document. It came to-day, and I have been carefully considering what can be done to advance this movement in my own humble sphere of influence. [To Chevillot] As I said to you a short time ago, M. le maire of Châteauneuf, the Minister desires to see the whole of France covered with associations having the increase of the population for their object; I am certain that you will desire that this town of Châteauneuf, of which you are the chief magistrate and in which I am the representative of the Republic, should have the honor of being among the first to set out upon the road indicated to us.
CHEV. I’m with you. I am a manufacturer: I am all for large populations.
BRIGNAC. You are the very man to be president of the Châteauneuf association.
COL. I am a soldier: I also am for large populations.
LUCIE. And you, M. l’intendant?
SOUS-IN. I, madame, am a bachelor.
COL [joking] More shame for you!
BRIGNAC [also joking] It’s a scandal, monsieur, a perfect scandal.
MME. CHEV. You don’t regret it?
SOUS-IN. Ah, I don’t say that, madame.