The Resources of Quinola: A Comedy in a Prologue and Five Acts

by Honoré de Balzac

SCENE SIXTH

Paquita and Monipodio (disguised as a begging friar at the door of the
Brancadori Palace).

Paquita Madame told me to learn why Monipodio stationed himself below, but I saw no one there.

Monipodio
Alms, my dear child, is a treasure which is laid up in heaven.

Paquita
I have nothing to give.

Monipodio
Never mind, promise me something.

Paquita
This is rather a jovial friar.

Monipodio
She does not recognize me and I believe I can run the risk.

(Monipodio knocks at the door of Lothundiaz.)

Paquita Ah! If you count upon the alms of our friend the land-owner, you would be richer with my promise. (To Faustine Brancadori, who appears on the balcony) Madame, the men are gone.