The Duke
That is a short time.
Saint-Charles
But it involves a good deal of money.
The Duke Do not suppose that I wish to hear of evil things; it is the method of you people to pander to depraved passions. Instead of showing them up, you prefer to invent rather than to reveal occurrences. I should be delighted to learn that this young man has a family—
(The marquis enters, sees his father engaged, and turns to go out; the duke asks him to remain.)
SCENE FIFTH. The preceding and the Marquis de Montsorel.
The Duke (continuing) If Monsieur de Frescas is a gentleman, and the Princesse d'Arjos decidedly prefers him to my son, the marquis must withdraw his suit.
The Marquis
But, father, I am in love with Inez.
The Duke (to Saint-Charles)
You may go, sir.
Saint-Charles (aside) He takes no interest in the proposed marriage of his son. He is incapable of feeling jealous of his wife. There is something very serious in these circumstances; I am either a ruined man or my fortune is made. (Exit.)