Mrs. Deschappelles.

[Turning sharply round and observing Mrs. Melnotte for the first time.] I beg your pardon?

[Icily.

Mrs. Melnotte.

[Bravely.] I said no one could have a better husband than Claude.

Mrs. Deschappelles.

[Dumbfounded, appealing to Pauline.] Who—who is this person?

Pauline.

[Nervously.] I think you have met before, mother. This is Mrs. Melnotte.

Mrs. Deschappelles.