The President. He was left to stand! A journalist from Paris and he was left to stand! [Catching sight of the recorder] You knew that, Monsieur the recorder, and you didn't warn me? Is that how you perform your duties? Go at once and express my regret and find him a good seat; do you hear?

Recorder. Yes, your honor. [He turns to go]

The President [running after him] Here! [Aside to the recorder] Find out if he's annoyed.

Recorder. Yes, your honor.

The President. And then—[He encounters Madame Bunerat at the door. Pardon, Madame. He goes out, running, lifting up his gown]

La Bouzole. When I was at Montpellier I knew an old tenor who was as anxious as that at his third début—

Enter Mouzon. Frigid salutations.

Madame Bunerat [after a pause] Is it true, Monsieur Mouzon—

Madame Vagret. That the Attorney-General—

Bunerat. Has arrived?