Therese
One of them is not quite so easily managed; and that is M. Pierquin.

Justin
He is a tiger who feeds on bankrupts. And to think of poor old
Violette!

Virginie
He is both creditor and beggar--I always feel inclined to give him a
plate of soup.

Justin
And Goulard!

Therese
A bill discounter who would like very much to--to discount me.

Virginie (amid a general laugh)
I hear madame coming.

Justin
Let us keep a civil tongue in our heads, and we shall learn something
about the marriage.



SCENE SECOND