confidence and credit. With the aid of a rich son-in-law I can
reconquer my position, and recuperate my fortune! Why, the marriage of
my daughter is our last anchor of salvation! This marriage is our
hope, our wealth, the prop of our honor, sir! And since you love my
daughter, it is to this very love that I make my appeal. My friend, do
not condemn her to poverty; do not condemn her to a life of regret
over the loss and disgrace which she has brought upon her father!

Minard (in great distress)
But what do you ask me to do?

Mercadet (taking him by the hand)
I wish that this noble affection which you have for her, may arm you
with more courage than I myself possess.

Minard
I will show such courage--

Mercadet
Then listen to me. If I refuse Julie to you, Julie will refuse the man
I destine for her. It will be best, therefore, that I grant your
request for her hand, and that you be the one--

Minard
I!-- She will not believe it, sir--

Mercadet
She will believe you, if you tell her that you fear poverty for her.

Minard