If she had lived, I should never have married.

Mercadet
Because you know what love is, that you do! So I may count upon you
for dinner, and you give me your word of honor that you will send me--

Verdelin
The plate?

Mercadet
And the thousand crowns--

Verdelin
Ah! You still harp upon that! I have told you I cannot do it.

Mercadet (aside)
It is certain that this fellow will never die of heart failure.
(Aloud) And so it seems I am to be murdered by my best friend? Alas!
It is always thus! You are actually untouched by the memory of
Clarissa--and by the despair of a father! (He cries out towards the
chamber of his wife.) Ah! it is all over! I am in despair! I am going
to blow my brains out!



SCENE THIRTEENTH


The same persons, Mme. Mercadet and Julie.