“Yes, sir, and I repeat to you, that I am far from supposing that you can give her to me in marriage; but as there is nothing in the world but that, which could prevent me from dying, if you believe in God, as I do not doubt you do, you will understand the reason that brings me here.”
“Whether I believe in God or not, is no business of yours. I do not intend to be questioned. Answer me first: where have you seen my daughter?”
“In my father’s shop, and in this house, when I brought jewelry for Mademoiselle Julie.”
“Who told you her name was Julie? What are we coming to, great heavens! But be her name Julie or Javotte, do you know what is wanted in any one who aspires to the hand of the daughter of a fermier-général?”
“No, I am completely ignorant of it, unless it is to be as rich as she.”
“Something more is necessary, my boy; you must have a name.”
“Well! my name is Croisilles.”
“Your name is Croisilles, poor wretch! Do you call that a name?”
“Upon my soul and conscience, sir, it seems to me to be as good a name as Godeau.”
“You are very impertinent, sir, and you shall rue it.”