Vagret. He's doing what he can.

Madame Vagret. Well, if I were in his place, it seems to me—Oh, they ought to have women for examining magistrates! [Distractedly] Is there nothing in the Official Gazette?

Vagret [dispirited and anxious] Yes.

Madame Vagret. And you never told me. Anything that affects us?

Vagret. No. Nanteuil has been appointed Advocate-General.

Madame Vagret. Nanteuil?

Vagret. Yes.

Madame Vagret. Oh, that's too bad! Why, he was only an assistant at Lunéville when you were substitute there!

Vagret. Yes. But he has a cousin who's a deputy. You can't compete with men like that. [A pause. Madame Vagret sits down and begins to cry]

Madame Vagret. We haven't a chance.