The children are intruiged by the story of Paul's adventures. Leon is jealous and tries to hurt Sophie and Paul by telling them that adopted children are never loved as much as natural children. In an effort to change the subject, Elisa puts forward the idea of illuminating the castle with Chinese lanterns. During the preparations, Paul tells his cousins of the mischief Sophie got up to in the past. Jean, feeling that Sophie is hurt, talks with her. Mr de Rosbourg announces to Paul that he has legally adopted him. This good news reminds Sophie that Fedora might soon make a reappearane. Mrs de Fleurville reassures her that all will be fine.
Les enfants attendent avec impatience la suite du récit des aventures de Paul. Pour blesser Sophie et Paul, Léon, jaloux, affirme que les enfants adoptifs ne sont jamais aimés comme des enfants véritables...
