Ramel I know Godard; under a somewhat dull exterior he conceals great sagacity, and he is the most inquisitive man in the department. Is he here now?
Ferdinand
He dines here to-day.
Ramel
Do not trust him.
Ferdinand If two women, between whom there is no love lost, make the discovery that they are rivals, one of them, I can't say which, is capable of killing the other, for one is strong in innocence and lawful love; the other, furious to see the fruit of so much dissimulation, so many sacrifices, even crimes lost to her forever.
(Enter Napoleon.)
Ramel You alarm me—me, the prosecuting attorney! Upon my word and honor, women often cost more than they are worth.
Napoleon Dear friend! Papa and mamma are impatient about you; they send word that you must leave your business, and Vernon says that your stomach requires it.
Ferdinand
You little rogue! You are come eavesdropping!
Napoleon
Mamma whispered in my ear: "Go and see what your friend is doing."
Ferdinand Run away, you little scamp! Be off! I am coming. (To Ramel) You see she makes this innocent child a spy over me.