Ramel (to Vernon)
Where did Madame de Grandchamp send you?
Vernon
Everything is ominous in this mysterious affair. Madame de Grandchamp
was so anxious to get me out of the way that she sent me three leagues
to visit a sick man, who, I found when I reached his home, was
drinking in the inn. I blamed Champagne for deceiving Madame de
Grandchamp, and Champagne positively told me that the workman had not
appeared at the factory, but that he himself knows nothing about his
alleged sickness.
Felix
Gentlemen, the clergy are here.
Ramel
We can continue our proceedings in the drawing-room.
Vernon
This way, gentlemen, this way.
(Scene curtain.)
SCENE SIXTH
(The drawing-room.)
Ramel, the Magistrate, the Sheriff's Officer and Vernon.
Ramel
Here, then, is the result so far of our inquiry, in accordance with
the evidence of Felix and Marguerite. Madame de Grandchamp, in the
first place, administered to her stepdaughter a dose of opium, and
you, M. Vernon, who were present and saw the criminal attempt, managed
to secure and lock up the cup.
Vernon
It is true, gentlemen, but--
Ramel
How is it, M. Vernon, that when you witnessed this criminal attempt,
you did not check Madame de Grandchamp in the fatal course which she
was then pursuing?
Vernon
Believe me, gentlemen, I did everything which I thought could be done
with prudence, and all that my long experience suggested was attempted
by me.
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