MOTHER CONSULTS THE CHEMIST, once again. In his opinion, her letter should request M. Jouy's release for reasons of utmost urgency. When writing correspondence of an official nature, he says, it is better to remain vague.
He returns his spectacles to the bald crest of his head.
No mention of marriage? Mother asks.
The officials at Maréville might not approve, he says.
Approve? Mother says. Who are they to approve? They should stick to drawing pictures.
In a distinctly dispirited way, the chemist rearranges his selection of eye droppers.
Nevertheless, he says, the fate of M. Jouy is in their hands, and if you desire him for a son-in-law, you must first arrange for his release from the hospital.
Would it be dishonest, Mother asks, to describe myself as a member of the family?
If I were you, he says, I would prefer the phrase: interested party.
He sees that Mother is about to object.