Madame. For one guest?
Bishop. Yes—we have no right to hide treasures. Each guest shall enjoy all that we have.
Madame. Then 'tis time we should look to the locks on the doors, if we would keep our silver. I'll go for the locksmith now—
Bishop. Stay! This house shall not be locked against any man! Would you have me lock out my brothers?
[A loud knock is heard at street door.]
Come in!
[Enter Jean Valjean, with his knapsack and cudgel. The women are frightened.]
Jean (roughly). See here! My name is Jean Valjean. I am a convict from the galleys. I was set free four days ago, and I am looking for work. I hoped to find a lodging here, but no one will have me. It was the same way yesterday and the day before. To-night a good woman told me to knock at your door. I have knocked. Is this an inn?
Bishop. Madame, put on another plate.
Jean. Stop! You do not understand, I think. Here is my passport—see what it says: "Jean Valjean, discharged convict, has been nineteen years in the galleys; five years for theft; fourteen years for having attempted to escape. He is a very dangerous man." There! you know it all. I ask only for straw in your stable.