“If it is necessary to destroy animals that injure plants, it would likewise be necessary to destroy the cattle that devour the grass.”
Foureau withdraws.
Discourse by Bouvard—in a familiar style.
Prejudices: celibacy of priests, futility of adultery, emancipation of woman.
“Her earrings are the symbol of her former servitude.”
Studs of men.
Bouvard and Pécuchet are reproached with the misconduct of their pupils. Also, why did they adopt the children of a convict?
Theory of rehabilitation. They would dine with Touache.
Foureau, having returned, reads, with a view to having revenge on Bouvard, a petition from him to the municipal council, in which he asks for the establishment of a brothel at Chavignolles. (Contemptuous arguments.)
The meeting is brought to a close amid the utmost confusion.