Les Boulingrin

Scene 1
Des Rillettes, a professional freeloader, is received by the Boulingrins’ maid Félicie. From the conversation in the antechamber he is convinced to have knocked at the right door. He will be welcome to dine three times a week with this very close couple.

Scene 2
And take advantage of bourgeois comfort..

Scene 3
But as soon as he is greeted, the Boulingrins quarrel over who is to speak and then torment Des Rillettes with their displays of courtesy. Insults and slanders fly around their guest whose reconciliatory attempts stir up conflict..

Scene 4
Mrs Boulingrin’s departure seems to restore peacefulness. But in spite of affable and friendly words, Mr Boulingrin starts to torture Des Rillettes again by relating his conjugal ordeal in great detail. The latter tries to flee to no avail.

Scene 5
Mrs Boulingrin comes back to make him taste the corky wine served by her husband who leaves the place. Des Rillettes endeavors to escape in vain.

Scene 6
Mrs Boulingrin enjoins Des Rillettes to abduct her. He declines because of an old amour. Infuriated by his lack of consideration, she shows him how her husband treats her and claims to be a victim.

Scene 7
Mr Boulingrin comes back from the kitchen. The Boulingrins want their guest to gulp corky wine and poisoned soup. During the wrangle, wine and soup fly low. Madam produces a pistol so as to be done with her husband who shelters behind Des Rillettes. While the latter is hit and collapses, the Boulingrins take it out on the furniture and Madam sets fire to their home. In the midst of the fire, Mr Boulingrin invites Des Rillettes to drink champagne.