Scene IV.—Valère, Mariane, Dorine.

Valère. I have just been told a piece of news, Madam, which I did not know, and which is certainly very pretty.

Mariane. What is it?

Valère. That you are going to be married to Tartuffe.

Mariane. My father has taken this idea into his head, certainly.

Valère. Your father, Madam …

Mariane. Has altered his mind: he has just proposed this affair to me.

Valère. What! seriously?

Mariane. Yes, seriously, he has openly declared himself for this match.

Valère. And what have you decided, in your own mind, Madam?

Mariane. I know not.

Valère. The answer is polite. You know not?

Mariane. No.

Valère. No?

Mariane. What do you advise me?

Valère. I, I advise you to take this husband.

Mariane. Is that your advice?

Valère. Yes.

Mariane. Seriously?

Valère. Doubtless. The choice is glorious, and well worth consideration.

Mariane. Very well, Sir, I shall act upon the advice.

Valère. That will not be very painful, I think.

Mariane. Not more painful than for you to give it.

Valère. I gave it to please you, Madam.

Mariane. And I shall follow it to please you.

Dorine. (retiring to the further part of the stage). Let us see what this will come to.

Valère. This then is your affection? And it was all deceit when you …

Mariane. Do not let us speak of that, I pray. You have told me quite candidly that I ought to accept the husband selected for me; and I declare that I intend to do so, since you give me this wholesome advice.