Ramel Yes, General, and you have in him the noblest heart, the most spotless integrity, the most charming character that I have ever met.
Pauline
This state's attorney seems to be a very kind man!
Godard (aside) And why does she say that? Is it because he praised M. Ferdinand? Ah! there's something there!
Gertrude (to Ramel)
Whenever you have any moments to spare, you must come to see M. de
Charny. (To the General) Would not that be nice, dear?
The Magistrate (coming in from the veranda) M. de la Grandiere, our physician, agrees with Doctor Vernon that this death resulted from Asiatic cholera. We beg, therefore, that you, countess, and you, count, will excuse us for having disturbed, even for a moment, the tranquillity of your charming household.
Ramel (to Gertrude in the front of the stage) Take care! God never protects undertakings so rash as yours. I have discovered all. Give up Ferdinand, leave his life free, and be satisfied with the happiness of a wife. The path which you are following leads to crime.
Gertrude
I'll die before I give him up!
Ramel (aside)
I must get Ferdinand away from this place.
(Ramel beckons to Ferdinand, takes his arm, and goes out with him after exchange of formal bows.)
The General At last we are rid of them! (To Gertrude) Let the coffee be handed round.