Pauline Yes, papa, Marguerite had forgotten to take away the vase of flowers, and I almost died.

Gertrude
Come, my daughter, come into the open air.

(Gertrude and Pauline go towards the door.)

The General
Stay a moment. What have you done with the flowers.

Pauline
I do not know where Madame has put them.

Gertrude
I threw them into the garden.

(The General abruptly rushes out, after setting his candle on the card table.)

SCENE THIRTEENTH

Pauline and Gertrude; later, the General.

Gertrude
Go back to your room, lock yourself in! I'll take all the blame.
(Pauline goes to her room.) I will wait for him here.