Part 18 (2/2)

Mercadet, Mme. Mercadet, Julie and Minard.

Mercadet (aside) I am annoyed to see my wife and daughter here. In my present circ.u.mstances, women are likely to spoil everything, for they have nerves. (Aloud) What is it, Mme. Mercadet?

Mme. Mercadet Sir, you were counting on the marriage of Julie to establish your credit and rea.s.sure your creditors, but the event of yesterday has put you at their mercy--

Mercadet Do you think so? Well, you are quite mistaken. I beg your pardon, M.

Minard, but what brings you here?

Minard Sir--I--

Julie Father--it is--

Mercadet Are you come to ask again for my daughter?

Minard Yes, sir.

Mercadet But everybody says that I am going to fail--

Minard I know it, sir.

Mercadet And would you marry the daughter of a bankrupt?

Minard Yes, for I would work to re-establish him.

Julie That's good, Adolphe.

Mercadet (aside) A fine young fellow. I will give him an interest in the first big business I do.

Minard I have made known my attachment to the man I look upon as a father. He has informed me--that I am the possessor of a small fortune--

Mercadet A fortune!

Minard When I was confided to his care, a sum of money was entrusted to him, which has increased by interest, and I now possess thirty thousand francs.

Mercadet Thirty thousand francs!

Minard On learning of the disaster that had befallen you, I realized this sum, and I bring it to you, sir; for sometimes in these cases an arrangement can be made by paying something on account--

Mme. Mercadet He has an excellent heart!

Julie (with pride) Yes, indeed, papa!

<script>