What about?

Joseph
Not even their own son can say.

Vautrin
And why was your predecessor dismissed?

Joseph
I cannot say. I was not acquainted with him. They did not set up an
establishment here until after the king's second return.

Vautrin (aside)
Such are the advantages of the new social order; masters and servants
are bound together by no ties; they feel no mutual attachment,
exchange no secrets, and so give no ground for betrayal. (To Joseph)
Any spicy stories at meal-times?

Joseph
Never before the servants.

Vautrin
What is thought of them in the servants' hall?

Joseph
The duchess is considered a saint.

Vautrin
Poor woman! And the duke?