Mondoubleau. They're afraid of an interpellation. Just a chance—I'll tell you about it. Tell me—it seems you have a young assistant here who has been playing pranks.

Attorney-General. Monsieur Ardeuil?

Mondoubleau. Ardeuil, yes, that's the man. Eugène follows matters very closely.

Attorney-General. Eugène?

Mondoubleau. Eugène—my friend Eugène—the Keeper of the Seals. He said to me, "I expect your Attorney-General to understand how to do his duty."

Attorney-General. I ask nothing better, but let me know what my duty is.

Mondoubleau. That's just what one wants to avoid. But look here, my friend, you are a very mysterious person!

Attorney-General. I?

Mondoubleau. You are asking for a change of appointment.

Attorney-General. Who told you that?