Féliat. If I have to part with them, I will see they are provided for.
Thérèse. Yes, for a day—a week, perhaps. But afterwards? What then? Little children will be holding out their hands for food to mothers who have none to give them.
Féliat. But, good God, what have I to do with that? Is it my fault? Don't you see that I'm quite powerless in the matter?
Thérèse. No, you're not quite powerless. You can choose which you will sacrifice, the women who have been perfectly loyal to you, or the men who want to wring from your weakness freedom from competition which frightens them.
Féliat. They're fighting for their daily bread.
Thérèse. Yes, fighting the woman because she works for lower wages. She can do that because she is sober and self-controlled. Is it because of her virtues that you condemn her?
Féliat. I know all that as well as you do, and I tell you again the women can go on working just as they were working before you came.
Thérèse. You'll be made to part with them.
Féliat. We shall see. But at present that's not the question. The present thing is about you. One of us has to be sacrificed, you or me. I can see only one thing. If I stick to you, my machinery will be smashed and my works will be burned. I'm deeply sorry this has happened, and I don't deny for a moment the great value of your services; but, after all, I can't ruin myself for your sake.
Thérèse [urgently] But you wouldn't be ruined. Defend yourself, take measures. Ask for assistance from the Government.