Vautrin
He loves me still.
The Duchess But has that wretch spoken the truth in revealing what you are and whence you come?
Vautrin
Yes, madame.
The Duchess
And have you taken care of my son?
Vautrin Your son, our son—yes—have you not perceived that he is as pure as an angel?
The Duchess Ah, may you receive a blessing for what you have done! May the world pardon you! Oh God! (she kneels) The voice of a mother must reach Thee, forgive, forgive this man. (She looks at Vautrin.) My tears shall bathe his hands! Oh! grant that he may repent! (Turning to Vautrin) You belong to me; I will change you! But people are deceived, you are no criminal, and, whatever you are, all mothers will give you their absolution!
Vautrin
Come, it is time to restore her son to her.
The Duchess Did you still harbor the horrible thought of refusing him to his mother? But I have waited for him for two and twenty years.
Vautrin And I, have I not been for ten years his father? Raoul is my very soul! Let me endure anguish, let men heap shame upon me; if he is happy and crowned with honor, I shall see it and my life will once more be bright.
The Duchess
I am overwhelmed. He loves like a mother.