The sewers of Loures have become clogged.

Cyril and several others are concerned for their sanitation. Cyril has opened up his daughter's hall to visitors and wants to keep plague at bay.

A court jester, Jay, has worked the sewers and makes jests about the stench, but his folly does not conceal his concern. He mentions his brief knowledge of the sewers in hopes that someone can help. The entire court hopes the sewers may become unclogged, before plague breaks out.