The President. What harm? I have done no harm! I?
Vagret. When you informed Etchepare that his wife had long ago been condemned for receiving stolen goods, and that she had been seduced before his marriage with her. When you did that you did a wicked thing.
The President. You are a Don Quixote. Do you suppose Etchepare didn't know all that?
Vagret. If you had noticed his emotion when his wife, on your asking her if the facts were correct, replied that they were, you would be certain, as I am, that he knew nothing.
The President [packing his gown in its box] Well, even so! You attribute to people of that sort susceptibilities which they don't possess.
Vagret. Your honor, "people of that sort" have hearts, just as you and I have.
The President. Admitted. Didn't my duty force me to do as I did?
Vagret. I know nothing about that.
The President [still in shirt sleeves] It's the law that is guilty, then, eh? Yes? Well, Monsieur, if I did my duty—and I did—you are lacking in your duty in attacking the law, whose faithful servant you should be, the law which I, for one, am proud to represent.
Vagret. There's no reason for your pride.