Mlle H. And why? On my own account? No! What is he to me? But when I see that he dares to bring his plots and machinations here, and intends you for their victim, I am free to confess, I do despise and hate him!
Mar. These are grave accusations. What proof have you to support them?
Mlle H. Ah, you suspect me. For the sake of this stranger, you doubt the truth of one you have known for years? Well, be it so—I will give you proof, since you demand it. Do you know his handwriting?
Mar. I do. I have had to look over many papers he has copied for my mother.
Mlle H. Look at that letter. Now listen: [Reads.] "My dear Desmarets: I follow your instructions exactly. But will they avail to win for me the bright reward for all I have to endure. I do not think the dowry wilt be as large as I had hoped.—
Mar. Great Heavens!
Mlle H. "But I have sworn to win it, and though there are many obstacles here to make the task a hard one, yet, to achieve it, I will serve, like Jacob, for forty years, if need be—What a pity he did not finish it. This was found under the window of his room by Madame Aubrey and, by her, handed to me.
Mar. Enough. My resolution is taken.
Enter Madame Laroque and Bevannes.
Mad. L. Oh, my dear child! What a state I have been in about you. How did you get back? What happened?