Mother Bougne. I haven't missed one up to now, Monsieur Féliat.
Féliat. That's right. [She goes out at the back during what follows. Monsieur Féliat turns to René and says] We call Mother Bougne our Minister of the Interior, because she tries to keep the place tidy. She's been a weaver near Rouen since she was eight years old; she's been stranded here.
René. And she's a member of the Committee of the Union?
Guéret. Yes, she's a member. Thérèse insisted on it. When Thérèse founded a Woman's Trade Union here she had the nice idea of including among them this poor old creature, wrecked by misery and hard work. Our Thérèse has ideas like that. [With a change of tone] But business, business. What do you want us to do for you?
René. I've come to ask you two things. The first is to try to get round my people.
Féliat. Well, I'll try. But I know your father. He's even more obstinate than I am myself. I shan't make the smallest impression upon him. What else?
René. I want to have a talk with Thérèse in your presence.
Féliat. In our presence! Now listen, my boy. Our presence will be much more useful in the work rooms. We have our hands full here. You've dropped in just at the point of a split between workmen and employers. Besides, to tell you the truth, I think I know pretty well what you have to say to Thérèse. I'll send her to you. And, look here, don't keep her too long, because she's got her hands full too. [To Guéret] Will you go and telephone to Duriot's?
Guéret [looking at his watch] Yes, there might be some news. [He goes out]
Féliat [to René] And I'll send Thérèse here.