Oronte. Do you really believe that you have such a great share of wit?

Alceste. If I praised your verses, I should have more.

Oronte. I shall do very well without your approbation.

Alceste. You will have to do without it, if it be all the same.

Oronte. I should like much to see you compose some on the same subject, just to have a sample of your style.

Alceste. I might, perchance, make some as bad; but I should take good care not to show them to any one.

Oronte. You are mighty positive; and this great sufficiency…

Alceste. Pray, seek some one else to flatter you, and not me.

Oronte. But, my little Sir, drop this haughty tone.

Alceste. In truth, my big Sir, I shall do as I like.

Philinte (coming between them). Stop, gentlemen! that is carrying the matter too far. Cease, I pray.

Oronte. Ah! I am wrong, I confess; and I leave the field to you. I am your servant, Sir, most heartily.

Alceste. And I, Sir, am your most humble servant.

Scene III.—Philinte, Alceste.

Philinte. Well! you see. By being too sincere, you have got a nice affair on your hands; I saw that Oronte, in order to be flattered…

Alceste. Do not talk to me.

Philinte. But…

Alceste. No more society for me.

Philinte. Is it too much…

Alceste. Leave me alone.

Philinte. If I…

Alceste. Not another word.

Philinte. But what…

Alceste. I will hear no more.

Philinte. But…

Alceste. Again?

Philinte. People insult…

Alceste. Ah! zounds! this is too much. Do not dog my steps.