Albin. Like Alexander the Great.
Duke (smiling). Yes, Alexander the Great.... (To Flipotte. ) Give me my sword. (He puts it in the sheath. Slowly.) It is the finest way of making fun of the world; a man who can play any part and at the same time play us is greater than all of us. (Albin looks at him in astonishment.) Don't you reflect on what I say. 'Tis all only true at the actual moment. Good-by.
Michette. Give me a kiss before you go.
Flipotte. Me too!
[They hang on to him, the Duke kisses them both at once and goes. In the meanwhile:]
Albin. a wonderful man!
François. That is quite true; ... but the existence of men like that is almost a reason for not marrying.
Albin. But do explain; what are those girls?
François. Actresses. They, too, belong to the troupe of Prosper, who is at present the host of the tavern. No doubt they've done in the past much the same as they're doing now.
[Guillaume rushes in apparently breathless.]