Ramel
Come, come, we won't talk any more about that.
Ferdinand My father was a gambler—that was the reason why he was so indulgent to me. But may I ask what has brought you here?
Ramel
A fortnight ago I was appointed king's attorney at Louviers.
Ferdinand I heard something about it. But the appointment was published under another name.
Ramel
De la Grandiere, I suppose.
Ferdinand
That is it.
Ramel In order that I might marry Mlle. de Boudeville, I obtained permission to assume my mother's name—as you have done. The Boudeville family have given me their protection, and in a year's time I shall doubtless be attorney-general at Rouen—a stepping-stone towards a position at Paris.
Ferdinand
And what brings you to our quiet factory?
Ramel I came to investigate a criminal case, a poisoning affair,—a fine introduction into my office.
(Felix enters.)