In this passage, a woman greets a man with a direct question about his sobriety, immediately sparking a moment of tension. The man's aggressive response suggests he feels defensive about the accusation. She quickly clarifies her intent regarding another character, Citizen Danton, who she believes might be incapacitated due to alcohol.
The exchange highlights both humor and the underlying conflict in their relationship. The man's dismissive attitude toward her concerns contrasts with her focus on whether Danton is drunk and in a vulnerable state. This interaction illustrates their dynamic, hinting at deeper themes of power and responsibility in the narrative.