Mercadet I need only two days—two days, in order that Pierquin may complete certain purchases which we have ordered. Two days in order that the stock which I know how to inflate may have time to rise. You will be my backer, my security. And as no one will recognize you—
De la Brive I shall cease to be this personage as soon as I have paid you forty- seven thousand, two hundred and thirty-three francs and some centimes.
Mercadet
That is so. But I hear some one—my wife—
Mme. Mercadet (enters) My dear, there are some letters for you, and the bearer requires an answer.
(Mme. Mercadet withdraws to the fireplace.)
Mercadet
I suppose I must go. Good-day, my dear De la Brive. (In a low voice)
Not a word to my wife; she would not understand the operation, and
would misconstrue it. (Aloud) Go quickly, and forget nothing.
De la Brive
You need have no fear.
(Mercadet goes out by the left; De la Brive starts to go out by the centre, but Mme. Mercadet intercepts him.)
SCENE FOURTH
Mme. Mercadet and De la Brive.