Ramel
I have known him from childhood; and here we met in your avenue. On
meeting, after nine years of separation, we had so many things to talk
about, that I caused him to be late.

The General
But, sir, to what circumstance am I to attribute your presence here?

Ramel
I come in the matter of Jean Nicot, known as Champagne, your foreman,
who is charged with a crime.

Gertrude
But, sir, our friend, Doctor Vernon, has declared that Champagne's
wife died a natural death.

Vernon
Yes, sir, cholera.

Ramel
Justice, sir, believes in nothing but investigations and convictions
of its own. You did wrong to proceed before my arrival.

Felix
Madame, shall I bring in the coffee?

Gertrude
Wait a while! (Aside) How changed this man is, this attorney. I
shouldn't have recognized him. He terrifies me.