But Fauchery did not hear him, for he had been pinned against the curtain by Fontan and was being compelled to listen patiently to the comedian's reading of the part of Tardiveau.

Fontan imagined Tardiveau to be a native of Marseilles with a dialect, and he imitated the dialect.

He was repeating whole speeches.

Was that right?
Was this the thing?
Apparently he was only submitting ideas to Fauchery of which he was himself uncertain, but as the author seemed cold and raised various objections, he grew angry at once.
Oh, very well, the moment the spirit of the part escaped him it would be better for all concerned that he shouldn't act it at all! "Fauchery!" shouted Bordenave once more.
Thereupon the young man ran off, delighted to escape from the actor, who was wounded not a little by his prompt retreat.
"Don't let's stay here," continued Bordenave.

"Come this way, gentlemen." In order to escape from curious listeners he led them into the property room behind the scenes, while Mignon watched their disappearance in some surprise.