Mercadet (following him, aside)
He will yet come to the scratch. (Aloud) Now look here, Verdelin, I
love my wife and my daughter; these sentiments, my friend, are my sole
consolation in the midst of my recent disasters; these women have been
so gentle, so patient! I should like to see them placed beyond the
reach of distress. Oh! It is on this point that my sufferings are most
real! (They walk to the front of the stage arm in arm.) I have
recently drunk the cup of bitterness, I have slipped upon my wooden
pavement,--I organized a monopoly and others drained me of everything!
But, believe me, this is nothing in comparison with the pain of seeing
you refuse me help in this extremity! Nevertheless, I am not going to
dwell upon the consequences--for I do not wish to owe anything to your
pity.

Verdelin (taking a seat)
A thousand crowns! But what purpose would you apply them to?

Mercadet (aside)
I shall get them. (Aloud) My dear fellow, a son-in-law is a bird who
is easily frightened away. The absence of one piece of lace on a dress
reveals everything to them. The ladies' costumes are ordered, the
merchants are on the point of delivering them--yes, I was rash enough
to say that I would pay for everything, for I counted on you!
Verdelin, a thousand crowns won't kill you, for you have sixty
thousand francs a year. And the life of a young girl of whom you are
fond is now at stake--for you are fond of Julie! She has a sincere
attachment for your little girl, they play together like the happiest
of creatures. Would you let the companion of your daughter pine away
with despair? Misfortune is contagious! It brings evil on all around!