Féliat. My child, I have undertaken to say something to you that I fear will hurt you, and it's very difficult. You know that I'm only René's uncle by marriage. So it's not on my own account that I speak. I speak for his parents.
Thérèse. Don't say another word, Monsieur Féliat. I perfectly understand. I'm going to release him from his engagement. I shall write to him this very night.
Féliat. My sister-in-law and her husband are most unhappy about all this.
Thérèse. I'm grateful to you all.
Féliat. Their affection for you is not in any way diminished.
Thérèse. I know.
Féliat. And—
Thérèse [imploringly] Please, please, Monsieur Féliat, don't say any more; what's the good of it?
Féliat. I beg your pardon, my dear. I am a little upset. I was expecting—er, er—
Thérèse. Expecting what?