Henri. Good evening. (He greets those sitting at the back with a light wave of his hand.) Good evening, gentlemen.
Host. Good evening, Henri. What do I see?—you and Léocadie together?
Grain (who has noticed Léocadie, to Scaevola). Why, I know her. (Speaks softly with the others.)
Léocadie. Yes, my dear Prosper, it is I.
Host. I have not seen you for a year on end. Let me greet you. (He tries to kiss her.)
Henri. Stop that. (His eyes often rest on Léocadie with pride and passion, but also a certain anxiety.)
Host. But, Henri—as between old comrades—your old chief Léocadie!
Léocadie. Oh, the good old times. Prosper!
Host. What are you sighing about? When a wench has made her way in the way you have! No doubt about it, a pretty young woman has always a much easier time of it than we have.
Henri (wild with rage). Stop it.