Scene III.—Agnès, Horace, Arnolphe.

Arnolphe. (to Agnès). Do not be uneasy at the place I am taking you to. I conduct you to a safe abode. It would ruin all for you to lodge with me. Go in at this door, and follow where you are led. (ARNOLPHE takes her hand, without being recognised by her.)

Agnès (to Horace). Why do you leave me?

Horace. Dear Agnès, it must be so.

Agnès. Remember, then, I pray you to return soon.

Horace. My love urges me sufficiently for that.

Agnès. I feel no joy but when I see you.

Horace. Away from you I also am sad.

Agnès. Alas, if that were so, you would stay here.

Horace. What! Can you doubt my excessive love?

Agnès. No; you do not love me as much as I love you! Ah, he is pulling me too hard! (Arnolphe pulls her away).

Horace. It is because it is dangerous, dear Agnès, for us to be seen together here; this true friend, whose hand draws you away, acts with the prudent zeal that inspires him on our behalf.

Agnès. But to follow a stranger…

Horace. Fear nothing. In such hands you cannot but be safe.

Agnès. I would rather be in Horace’s; and I should…(ToArnolphe, who still drags her away). Stay a little.

Horace. Farewell. The day drives me away.

Agnès. When shall I see you, then?

Horace. Very soon, you may be sure.

Agnès. How weary I shall be till I do!

HORACE (going). Thank Heaven, my happiness is no longer in suspense; now I can sleep securely.

Scene IV.—Arnolphe, Agnès.

Arnolphe (concealed by his cloak, and disguising his voice). Come; it is not there you are going to lodge. I have provided a room for you elsewhere, and intend to place you where you will be safe enough. (Discovering himself.) Do you know me?

Agnès. Ah!

Arnolphe. My face frightens you now, hussy; it is a disappointment to you to see me here. I interrupt your love and its pretty contrivances. (Agnès looks for Horace). Do not imagine you can call your lover to your aid with those eyes of yours; he is too far off to give you any assistance. So, so! young as you are, You can play such pranks. Your simplicity, that seemed so extraordinary, asks if infants come through the ear; yet you manage to make an assignation by night, and to slink out silently in order to follow your