PASQUINOT. Joining our properties.

BERGAMIN. By marrying our children. But I wonder whether they
would be so anxious if they knew we wished it? A marriage arranged
beforehand is not so tempting to two young children so romantic as
ours. That is why we kept our own wishes a secret. I felt sure
that after they had been separated--Sylvette in the convent,
Percinet at school--they would thrive on their secret love. That
is how I came to invent this hatred of ours. And you even doubted
its success! Now all we have to do is to say Yes.

PASQUINOT. But how can it be done? Remember, I've called you a
scoundrel, fool, idiot--

BERGAMIN. Idiot? Scoundrel was sufficient.

PASQUINOT. Now what pretext--?

BERGAMIN. Your daughter herself has given me an inspiration. This
evening they are to meet here at eight. Percinet comes first. At
the moment Sylvette appears, mysterious men in black will emerge
from the shadows and start to carry her off. An abduction! She
screams, then our young hero gives chase, draws his sword--the
ravishers pretend to flee--I arrive on the scene, then you--your
daughter is safe and sound. You bless the couple and drop a few
appropriate tears; my heart is softened. Tableau.

PASQUINOT. A stroke of genius.

BERGAMIN. [Modestly] Yes--I think it really is. Look--see that