 The opening scene shows the "noble Gentleman" Virolet brooding about the political situation.His wife Juliana questions him about his neglect of her; Virolet assures her that it is not lack of affection on his part, but his preoccupation with tyranny that keeps him from her bed.When she challenges him to do something about Ferrant's despotism, Virolet informs her that the plan is already in motion.