Scene—Sanctum of the Rédacteur en chef of "Le Gamin de Paris." Rédacteur discovered reading latest issue.
Rédacteur. Dear me, this note about the pacific intentions of the German Emperor is most interesting! I wonder how it got in. I did not notice it when I glanced through the pages. Still, I have the most unlimited confidence in my staff. (Quoting from his paper.) "There is no doubt that we can safely disarm, as Germany is our friend—the best of our friends." Dear me! Most interesting!
[Enter menial, ushering in mysterious stranger.
Stranger. I trust I am not intruding?
Rédacteur. Certainly not. It is the duty of an editor to be always at the service of those who seek his advice. No doubt you desire my opinion upon some matter of importance?
Stranger. You have guessed rightly. Which do you prefer, a mansion in town or a castle in the country?
Rédacteur (smiling). Well, I am scarcely qualified to judge, for I only possess a mansion in town. I have no castle in the country.
Stranger. Pardon me. You have one now.
[Gives Editor title-deeds.
Rédacteur (glancing at the documents). What, the Château de St. Querecs! One of the finest places in Brittany! You are really too amiable!