Madame l'archiduc

Scene : Fortunato must carry out the orders of the new ruler, who wishes to prevent Ernest from getting into her room incognito that night.

The archduke is caught and only saves his skin by revealing his identify to Fortunato, who allows him to escape, only to then turns his attentions on the supposed countess.

Giletti appears, being sent on his way to be ambassador to Naples, with a sealed letter setting out his credentials, which states "hold on to this idiot as long as possible".

The archduke, who has now decided to conspire against Marietta, has met at the inn another beautiful girl – who turns out to be the real countess.

He retakes his crown, gives 10,000 ecus to Giletti and Marietta (who use it to buy up the inn), and dispatches the count to Naples with the same, re-sealed, letter.