(The high prefect breathes through his nose as if he wished to speak.
The Schoolmaster: You only did your duty.
The Tribune of the People: You have only done your duty to your country.
Tête-d'or: What duty? What country?
What have you done for me? I wandered your roads like a vagabond. My bed was the breast of the earth.
And I know how you welcome the man with swarthy cheeks
When he takes off his cap uncovering a forehead that still can redden.
I was hungry and you offered me no bread. I am hungry!
And behold I stand at your door!
The King: Ask then, that we may know what you wish.