After a busy day at the factory, the workers invite the newcomer Violetta to eat with them, but she declines. The women talk about the Duke's handsomeness, learn that Violetta is formerly noble and that she came as Madam Marie's replacement. They tease her, implying there is something between her and the Duke. Violetta firmly denies it, explains that she is a cheating consultant, and says that being linked with the Duke is deadly because she fears the Princess's wrath. Then Sophia asks her for private help.