The Doctor

There’s nothing to be afraid of. I’ll take the whole responsibility. Besides, we shall all be there and we shall go in with him.

Gustave

Very well, then, let’s have done with it.... But, whatever happens, don’t let this ludicrous incident get about, will you?

Achille

Aunt Hortense’s jewels are put out on the mantelpiece....

Gustave

I know. I’ll keep an eye on them, for I confess that I don’t trust him. (To Saint Anthony.) It’s this way, come in. But be quick about it; we haven’t lunched yet.

(Gustave opens the folding-doors, revealing the drawing-room, in which is a large four-poster, with Mademoiselle Hortense’s body laid out upon it. Two lighted candles, a crucifix, a branch of palm, wreaths. At the back, a glass door leading to the garden. All go in, Saint Anthony and Gustave last.)