Eloise [peremptorily]. Dismiss that person. I have something to say to you.
Valsin [wiping his eyes]. Dossonville, you are not required. We are going to be sentimental, and heaven knows you are not the moon. In fact, you are a fat old man. Exit, obesity! Go somewhere and think about your children. Flit, whale!
Dossonville [rising]. Perfectly, my chieftain. [He goes to the broken door.]
Eloise [tapping the floor with her shoe]. Out of hearing!
Valsin. The floor below.
Dossonville. Well understood. Perfectly, perfectly! [He goes out through the hallway; disappears, chuckling grossly. There are some moments of silence within the room, while he is heard clumping down a flight of stairs; then Valsin turns to Eloise with burlesque ardor.]
Valsin. "Alone at last!"
Eloise [maintaining her composure]. Rabbit!
Valsin [dropping into the chair at the desk, with mock dejection]. Repulsed at the outset! Ah, Citizeness, there were moments on the journey from Paris when I thought I detected a certain kindness in your glances at the lonely stranger.
Eloise [folding her arms]. You are to withdraw your soldiers, countersign the "permit," and allow my friends to embark at once.