Alain. You are a fool.

Arnolphe. You are right! (To Georgette.) “Georgette, my darling, you look so sweet-tempered and so kind!’’

Georgette. You are a lout.

Arnolphe. You are right. (To Alain). “What harm do you find in an honest and perfectly virtuous scheme?’’

Alain. You are a rogue.

Arnolphe. Capital! (To Georgette.) “I shall surely die if you do not take pity on my sufferings.’’

Georgette. You are a brazen-faced blockhead.

Arnolphe. First-rate! (To Alain.) “I am not one who expects something for nothing; I can remember those who serve me. Here, Alain, is a trifle in advance, to have a drink with; and, Georgette, here is wherewith to buy you a petticoat. (Both hold out their hands and take the money.) This is only an earnest of what I intend to do for you; I ask no other favour but that you will let me see your pretty mistress.’’

Georgette (pushing him). Try your games elsewhere.

Arnolphe. That was good.

Alain (pushing him). Get out of this.

Arnolphe. Very good!

Georgette (pushing him). Immediately!

Arnolphe. Good! Hulloa, that is enough.

Georgette. Am I not doing right?

Alain. Is this how you would have us act?

Arnolphe. Yes, capital; except for the money, which you must not take.

Georgette. We did not think of that.

Alain. Shall we begin again now?

Arnolphe. No. It is enough. Go in, both of you.

Alain. You need only say so.

Arnolphe. No, I tell you; go in when I desire you. You may keep the money. Go. I shall soon be with you again; keep your eyes open, and second my efforts.

Scene V.—Arnolphe, alone.

I will get the cobbler, who lives at the corner of the street, to be my spy, and tell me everything. I mean to keep her always indoors, watch her constantly…and banish in particular all sellers of ribbons, tire-women, hair-dressers, kerchief-makers, glove-sellers, dealers in cast-off apparel, and all those folks who make it their business clandestinely to bring people together who are in love. In fact, I have seen the world, and understand its tricks. My spark must be very cunning if a love-letter or message gets in here.