My dear good husband, once so kind, neglects

And leaves me all alone. Is it his fault?

What most I fear is that his weakness will

Destroy him! Now no doubt he sits and drinks

In some low wine-shop: thus he spends his nights.

My Pierre! My genius! Lord in Heaven, hear!

(She looks at Rosette’s shoes by the hearth.)

I fear he’ll bring no presents for Rosette——

Her Christmas will be sad without her toys.

He wanted so to buy some toy to make