Part 9 (1/2)

Mercadet That is all right! I have succeeded in my scheme! My daughter shall be Comtesse de la Brive! (To the servants) Show them in! I am waiting, and the money is ready. (He goes proudly towards his study, while the servants look at him with surprise.)

Curtain to the First Act.

ACT II

SCENE FIRST

(Mercadet's study, containing book-shelves, a safe, a desk, an armchair and a sofa.)

Minard and Justin, then Julie.

Minard Did you say that M. Mercadet wished to speak with me?

Justin Yes, sir. But mademoiselle has requested that you await her here.

Minard (aside) Her father asks to see me. She wishes to speak to me before the interview. Something extraordinary must have happened.

Justin Mademoiselle is here.

(Enter Julie.)

Minard (going towards her) Mlle. Julie!

Julie Justin, inform my father that the gentleman has arrived. (Exit Justin.) If you wish, Adolphe, that our love should s.h.i.+ne as bright in the sight of all as it does in our hearts, be as courageous as I have already been.

Minard What has taken place?

Julie A rich young suitor has presented himself, and my father is acting without any pity for us.

Minard A rival! And you ask me if I have any courage! Tell me his name, Julie, and you will soon know whether I have any courage.

Julie Adolphe! You make me shudder! Is this the way in which you are going to act with the hope of bending my father?

Minard (seeing Mercadet approach) Here he comes.

SCENE SECOND

The same persons and Mercadet.

Mercadet Sir, are you in love with my daughter?

Minard Yes, sir.

Mercadet That is, at least, what she believes, and you seem to have had the talent to persuade her that it is so.