Mme. Mercadet, Julie, and later, Servants.
Julie
O mamma! I cannot marry this M. de la Brive!
Mme. Mercadet
But he is rich, you know.
Julie
But I prefer happiness and poverty, to unhappiness and wealth.
Mme. Mercadet My child, happiness is impossible in poverty, while there is no misfortune that wealth cannot alleviate.
Julie
How can you say such sad words to me?
Mme. Mercadet Children should learn a lesson from the experience of parents. We are at present having a very bitter taste of life's vicissitudes. Take my advice, daughter, and marry wealth.
Justin (entering, followed by Therese and Virginie)
Madame, we have carried out the master's orders.
Virginie
My dinner will be ready.
Therese
And the tradesmen have consented.