Septmonts—I may be killed—one has to look ahead. If I lose my life, I lose it by having been so injured by my wife that I intend to be revenged on her.
Clarkson—And how?
Septmonts—I wish that the contents of this letter, which I have in my possession, shall become public property if I am killed.
Clarkson [coldly]—Ah! And how can I serve you as to that?
Septmonts—I will intrust this sealed letter to you. [He takes the letter from his pocket.] Here it is.
Clarkson [still more coldly]—Very well.
Septmonts—Now, if I survive, you will restore it to me as it is. If not, then in the trial which will follow, you will read it in a court. I wish the letters to become public. Then it will be known that I avenged my honor under a feigned pretext; and M. Gérard and the duchess will be so situated that they will never be able to see each other again.
Clarkson—Nonsense! Once dead, what does it matter to you?
Septmonts—I am firm there. Will you kindly accept the commission?
Clarkson [in a formal tone]—Surely.