The penetration of Gertrude is very acute, but we
manage to elude it through Pauline's terror lest my name should be
divulged; the sense of this danger gives her strength to dissemble!
But now Pauline has just refused Godard, and I do not know what may be
the consequences.
Ramel
I know Godard; under a somewhat dull exterior he conceals great
sagacity, and he is the most inquisitive man in the department. Is he
here now?
Ferdinand
He dines here to-day.
Ramel
Do not trust him.
Ferdinand
If two women, between whom there is no love lost, make the discovery
that they are rivals, one of them, I can't say which, is capable of
killing the other, for one is strong in innocence and lawful love; the
other, furious to see the fruit of so much dissimulation, so many
sacrifices, even crimes lost to her forever.
(Enter Napoleon.)
Ramel
You alarm me--me, the prosecuting attorney! Upon my word and honor,
women often cost more than they are worth.
Napoleon
Dear friend! Papa and mamma are impatient about you; they send word
that you must leave your business, and Vernon says that your stomach
requires it.
Ferdinand
You little rogue! You are come eavesdropping!
Napoleon
Mamma whispered in my ear: "Go and see what your friend is doing."
Ferdinand
Run away, you little scamp! Be off! I am coming. (To Ramel) You see
she makes this innocent child a spy over me.
(Exit Napoleon.)
Ramel
Is this the General's child?
Ferdinand
Yes.
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