Napoleon Why, of course, it was because she was too scared; didn't you hear her say "oh!"?
Pauline Won't you hold your tongue, you little story-teller! You are always teasing me.
(Pauline sits on her father's knee, and puts sugar in his cup.)
Gertrude Can it be true? And to think that I have taken such pains in dressing her! (To Godard) If you are right, your marriage will take place in a fortnight. (Aloud) M. Ferdinand, here is your coffee.
Godard (aside) It seems that I caught two in my mouse-trap! And all the time the General is so calm, so tranquil, and this household is so peaceful! Things are getting mixed up. I shan't go yet; I wish to have a game of whist! Oh! I give up all thoughts of marriage for the present. (Glancing at Ferdinand) There's a lucky fellow! He is loved by two women—two charming, delightful creatures! He is indeed a factotum! But how is it that he is more successful than I am, who have an income of forty thousand?
Gertrude Pauline, my dear, offer the cards to the gentlemen for a game of whist. It is almost nine o'clock. If they are going to have a game, there is no time to be lost. (Pauline puts out the cards.) Come, Napoleon, bid good-night to the gentlemen, let them see you are a good boy, and don't try to stay up as you usually do.
Napoleon
Good-night, papa. What is justice like?
The General
Justice is blind! Good-night, my pet.
Napoleon
Good-night, M. Vernon! What is justice made of?
Vernon It is made up of all our crimes. When you are naughty, they whip you; that is justice.