Violette
It melts me to tears, gentlemen, it melts me to tears.
Mercadet (aside) Look at that! Well! There's a woman worth calling a wife! (Taking her by the hand) My darling— Excuse me, gentlemen. (He kisses her on both cheeks. In a low voice) Things are going on finely.
Mme. Mercadet (in a low voice) How lucky this is, my dear! Better than anything you could have fancied.
Mercadet I should think so. (Aside) It is very much better. (Aloud) Go and look after him, my dear. And you, gentlemen, be good enough to pass into my office. (He points to the left.) Wait there till we settle our accounts.
(Mme. Mercadet goes out.)
Goulard
I am at your service, my friend—
Pierquin
Our excellent friend.
Violette
Friend, we are at your service.
Mercadet (supporting himself half-dazed against the table)
What do you think? And people said that I was nothing but a sharper!
Goulard
You! You are one of the most capable men in Paris.