Champagne
Ah! General, I am saved.
The General
Poor old Champagne!
Ramel General, we shall be very happy if we have to announce the innocence of your foreman; unlike you soldiers, we are always delighted to be beaten.
Gertrude (returning)
Here it is, gentlemen.
(The Magistrate, Baudrillon and Ramel examine the package.)
Baudrillon (putting on his glasses) It is intact, gentlemen, perfectly intact. Here is my seal on it unbroken.
The Magistrate Lock that up carefully, madame, for the assizes for sometime have had to deal with nothing but poisoning cases.
Gertrude You see, sir, I have kept it in my desk, in which none but the General and myself have access.
(Gertrude returns to her bedroom.)
Ramel General, we will not wait for the report of the autopsy. The principal charge, which you will agree with me was very serious, for all the town was talking of it, has been disproved; and we have full confidence in the skill and integrity of Doctor Vernon. (Gertrude returns) Champagne, you are at liberty. (General expression of satisfaction.) But you see, my friend, to what painful suspicions a man exposes himself when his home has a bad name.