The Duke
What do you mean? That you are the Chevalier de Saint-Charles?
Vautrin Let me tell your grace, that we are just what we desire to be. Neither he nor I is simple enough to be his real self—it would cost us too much.
The Duke
Remember, that you must furnish proofs.
Vautrin If your grace has confided any important secret to him, I shall have immediately to put him under surveillance.
The Duke (aside)
This man seems more honest and reliable than the other.
Vautrin
We put the secret police on such cases.
The Duke You ought not to have come here, sir, unless you were able to justify your assertions.
Vautrin I have done my duty. I hope that the ambition of this man, who is capable of selling himself to the highest bidder, may be of service to you.
The Duke (aside) How can he have learned so promptly the secret of my morning interview?
Vautrin (aside)
He hesitates; Joseph is right, some important secret is at stake.