But you need have no anxiety on my account.
I was concerned in the regrettable incident which led to your
daughter's incarceration. I got a fortnight without the option of a
fine on the ridiculous ground that I ought to have struck the
policeman with my fist. I should have done so with pleasure had I
known; but, as it was, I struck him on the ear with my boot--a
magnificent _moulinet_, I must say--and was informed that I had been
guilty of an act of cowardice, but that for the sake of the _entente
cordiale_ I should be dealt with leniently. Yet Miss Knox, who used
her fist, got a month, but with the option of a fine. I did not know
this until I was released, when my first act was to pay the fine. And
here we are.
MRS KNOX. You ought to pay the gentleman the fine, Jo.
KNOX. [reddening] Oh, certainly. [He takes out some money].
DUVALLET. Oh please! it does not matter. [Knox hands him two
sovereigns]. If you insist-- [he pockets them] Thank you.
MARGARET. I'm ever so much obliged to you, Monsieur Duvallet.
DUVALLET. Can I be of any further assistance, mademoiselle?
MARGARET. I think you had better leave us to fight it out, if you
dont mind.
DUVALLET. Perfectly. Madame [bow]--Mademoiselle [bow]--Monsieur
[bow]--[He goes out].
MRS KNOX. Dont ring, Jo. See the gentleman out yourself.
_Knox hastily sees Duvallet out. Mother and daughter sit looking
forlornly at one another without saying a word.
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