Valsin [touching his scarf]. I had the honor to mention the French Republic.
Anne. So! Does the French Republic persecute widows and orphans?
Valsin [gravely]. No. It is the making of them!
Valsin. I regret that its just severity was the cause of your own bereavement, Citizeness. When your unfortunate husband, André, formerly known as the Prince de Laseyne—
Anne [defiantly, though tears have sprung to her eyes]. I tell you I do not know what you mean by these titles. My name is Balsage.
Valsin. Bravo! The Widow Balsage, living here in calm obscurity with her niece. Widow Balsage, answer quickly, without stopping to think. [Sharply.] How long have you lived here?
Anne. Two months. [Faltering.]—A year!
Valsin [laughing]. Good. Two months and a year! No visitors? No strangers?
Anne. No.
Valsin [wheeling quickly and picking up Louis's cap from the dressing-table]. This cap, then, belongs to your niece.