Saltabadil: Well, think about it. I am Saltabadil.
I wait for clients every day at noon
By the Hôtel du Maine.
Triboulet: Good-night to you.
Saltabadil: Believe me, I am honest. Times are bad;
I have four children, and at least my trade
Is better than mere beggary.
Triboulet: Of course.
One must bring up one's children.
Saltabadil: Thanks. Good-night.
[He departs. Triboulet then opens the door leading into a courtyard, and knocks at an inner entrance. This is opened by a charming young girl, who throws herself into the jester's arms.
Triboulet: My daughter! When I see your sweet, bright face
My grief and trouble vanish. Kiss me, Blanche;
I am in need of love. Have you been out?
Blanche: Only to church. It is so dull in town
That, were it not for you, dear, I should like
To go back to Chinon.
Triboulet: It would be best;
put now I could not live in solitude.
My darling, I have no one in the world
But you to love me!
[Hiding his face in his hands, he weeps.