My dearest! (The servants draw back a little. In a low voice to
madame) And so this is how you speak to the servants! To-morrow they
laugh at us. (To Justin) Justin, go at once to M. Verdelin's house,
and ask him to come here, as I want to speak to him about a piece of
business that will not admit of delay. Assume an air of mystery, for I
must have him come. You, Therese, go to the tradesmen of Madame de
Mercadet, and tell them, sharply, that they must send the things that
have been ordered.--They will be paid for--yes--and cash, too--go at
once. (Justin and Therese start.) Ah!--(They stop.) If--these people
come to the house again, ask them to enter. (Mme. Mercadet takes a
seat.)

Justin
These--these people?--

Therese and Virginie
These people? Eh!

Mercadet
Yes, these people--these creditors of mine!--

Mme. Mercadet
How is this, my dear?

Mercadet (taking a seat opposite his wife)
I am weary of solitude--I want their society. (To Justin and Therese)
That will do.

(Justin and Therese leave the room.)