INTRODUCTION

His associate in producing this little comedy ‘vas A. Delacour, whose name appears also on the title page. He was born in Paris in 1815 He pursued the study of medicine, which he later abandoned to become a writer of light comedies, usually in collaboration with others. He died in 1883,

The comedies of Labiche are remarkable for a fertile fancy and vivacious wit, combined with a wonderful power for inventing amusing situations, But underlying the drollery of incident and dialogue, there is always present à kindly feeling for the foibies and weaknesses of mankind. In the meanncss and pettiness of human nature, he sees a subject for humour and mirth rather than for satire, The general tone running through them is always healthy and clean, marked by a philosophy which shows profound observation and great insight into human nature.

Nores

AIl notes necessary for the clear understanding of the text have been inserted in the vocabulary, under all important words of the phrase. This will be found more satisfactory to both student and teacher than overloading the text with notes, which are frequently more of à hindrance than a help. The vocabulary has been made very full and complete,

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