Monsieur--I simply came to learn--

Rousseau (presenting Dupre to De Verby)
General, M. Dupre.

(Dupre and De Verby exchange bows.)

Dupre (aside, while De Verby talks with Rousseau)
He is general of the antechamber, holding the place merely through the
influence of his brother, the lord chamberlain; he doesn't seem to me
to have come here without some object.

De Verby (to Dupre)
I understand, sir, that you are engaged for the defence of M. Jules
Rousseau in this deplorable affair--

Dupre
Yes, sir, it is a deplorable affair, for the real culprits are not in
prison; thus it is that justice rages fiercely against the rank and
file, but the chiefs are always passed by. You are General Vicomte de
Verby, I presume?

De Verby
Simple General Verby--I do not take the title--my opinions of course.
--Doubtless you are acquainted with the evidence in this case?

Dupre
I have been in communication with the accused only for the last three
days.