_Dal._ If you knew all the misfortunes that have happened to me! Seeing
my affairs were in disorder, I wished to remedy them, and the remedy was
worse than the disease: I listened to new schemes, engaged in new
speculations, pledged my property, and have lost everything.

_Dor._ Here lies the error--new projects; the ruin of many another man.

_Dal._ And my condition is utterly hopeless.

_Dor._ You have been very wrong, my friend, especially as you have a
sister.

_Dal._ Yes; and it is now time to think of providing for her.

_Dor._ Every day she grows more beautiful. Madame Dalancourt receives
much company in her house, and youth, my dear friend, sometimes--you
understand me?

_Dal._ Regarding this point, I have on reflection found an expedient; I
think of placing her in a convent.

_Dor._ Place her in a convent! A good plan; but have you consulted your
uncle?

_Dal._ No; he will not hear me; but you must speak to him for me and for
Angelica. My uncle esteems and loves you, listens to you, confides in
you, and will refuse you nothing.

_Dor._ I have great doubts of this.

_Dal._ I am sure of it. Pray try to see him, and speak to him at once.

_Dor._ I will do so; but where is he gone?

_Dal._ I will find out.--Let us see--Is any one there? [_Calls._

_Enter_ Piccardo.

_Pic._ [_To_ Dalancourt.] Here, sir.

_Dal._ Is my uncle gone from home?

_Pic._ No, sir; he went into the garden.

_Dal._ Into the garden! at this time of day?

_Pic._ For him it is all the same. When he is a little out of temper,
he walks about and goes out to take the air.

_Dor._ I will go and join him.

_Dal._ I know my uncle, sir; you must give him time to get calm. It is
better to wait for him here.

_Dor._ But if he goes out, he may not return here again.

_Pic._ [_To_ Dorval.] Pardon me, sir, it will not be long before he is
here: I know his temper, a few minutes will be sufficient. I can assure
you he will be much pleased to see you.

_Dal._ Well, my dear friend, go into his room. Do me the favour to wait
for him there.

_Dor._ Willingly; I understand perfectly how cruel your situation is.
Some remedy must be provided; yes, I will speak to him, but on
condition--

_Dal._ [_With warmth._] I give you my word of honour.

_Dor._ It is sufficient.

[_Exit into_ Geronte's _room._

_Dal._ You did not tell my uncle what I told you to tell him?

_Pic._ Pardon me, sir, I have told him, but he drove me away, acc