Discussion of Eugénie’s Opera Aspirations
Through the dressing-room door, the baroness mentions that Eugénie barely speaks to Debray, and Debray recalls Morcerf’s similar complaint. The baroness suggests Eugénie will one day visit the minister’s study to request an engagement at the Opera, dismissing her daughter’s musical infatuation as “ridiculous for a young lady of fashion.” Debray amicably agrees to help secure an engagement.
Danglars’ Unannounced Visit
M. Danglars appears unexpectedly in the doorway. The baroness turns in astonishment but, suspecting he has come to make amends for his earlier sharp words, she adopts a dignified air and coolly asks Debray to read to her. Danglars, however, calmly and politely informs them that the baroness should retire given the late hour and that he wishes to discuss “serious matters” with his wife that evening.
Danglars Ejects Debray
Danglars continues in the same measured tone, insisting that he must speak with his wife tonight—a request he makes so rarely that Debray cannot reasonably refuse. Debray, recognizing the futility of resistance against the “irresistible will of the master of the house,” mutters something, bows, and withdraws. Once outside, he compares himself absurdly to Nathan in Racine’s Athalie as the husband claims a complete victory.
Confrontation Over 700,000 Franc Loss
Alone with his wife, Danglars takes a dictatorial posture on the sofa and roughly handles the spaniel, which attempts to bite him. He declares that he is in a worse humor than usual. When the baroness demands to know what her husband’s financial troubles have to do with her, Danglars reveals that he has just lost 700,000 francs on the Spanish loan and accuses her of being responsible. The baroness, struggling to hide her alarm, protests that she does not understand him.
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