possible to influence such a man? (Aloud) Nevertheless,
monsieur, you must sometimes need the services of others?

Dupre
Never!

De Verby
But you are sometimes sick?

Dupre
Then I like to be alone. Moreover, at Paris, anything can be bought,
even attendance on the sick; believe me I live because it is my duty
to do so. I have tested everything--charity, friendship, unselfish
devotion. Those who have received benefits have disgusted me with the
doing of kindnesses. Certain philanthropists have made me feel a
loathing for charity. And of all humbugs that of sentiment is the most
hateful.

De Verby
And what of patriotism, monsieur?

Dupre
That is a very trifling matter, since the cry of humanity has been
raised.

De Verby (somewhat discouraged)
And so you take Jules Rousseau for a young enthusiast?

Dupre
No, sir, nothing of the sort. He presents a problem which I have to
solve, and with your assistance I shall reach the solution. (De Verby
changes countenance.) Come, let us speak candidly. I believe that you
know something about all this.

De Verby
What do you mean, sir?

Dupre
You can save the young man.

De Verby
I? What can I do?

Dupre
You can give testimony which Antoine will corroborate--

De Verby
I have reasons for not appearing as a witness.

Dupre
Just so. You are one of the conspirators!

De Verby
Monsieur!

Dupre
It is you who have led on this poor boy.

De Verby
Monsieur, this language--!

Dupre
Don't attempt to deceive me, but tell me how you managed to gain this
bad influence over him? He is rich, he is in need of nothing.

De Verby
Listen!--If you say another word--

Dupre
Oh! my life is of no consideration with me!

De Verby
Sir, you know very well that Jules will get off; and that if he does
not behave properly, he will lose, through your fault, the chance of
marriage with my niece, and thus the succession to the title of my
brother, the Lord Chamberlain.

Dupre
Ah, that's what he was after, then! He's like all the rest of the
schemers. Now consider, sir, what I am going to propose to you. You
have powerful friends, and it is your duty--

De Verby
My duty! I do not understand you, sir.

Dupre
You have been able to effect his ruin, and can you not bring about his
release? (Aside) I have him there.

De Verby
I shall give my