Frosine. No; it is better that we should go to the fair now, so that we may return the sooner, and have ample time afterwards to converse with you.

Harpagon (to Brindavoine). Have the horses put to the carriage.

Scene XII.—Harpagon, Mariane, Elise, Cléante, Valère, Frosine.

Harpagon (to Mariane). I pray you to excuse me, fair child, if I forgot to offer you some refreshments before going.

Cléante. I have provided for it, father, and have ordered some plates of China oranges, sweet citrons, and preserves, which I have sent for in your name.

Harpagon (softly to Valere). Valère!

Valère (to Harpagon). He has lost his senses.

Cléante. Do you think, father, that it is not sufficient? This lady will have the goodness to excuse that, if it please her.

Mariane. It was not at all necessary.

Cléante. Have you ever seen, Madam, a diamond more sparkling than the one which you see on my father’s finger?

Mariane. It sparkles much indeed.

Cléante (taking the diamond off his father’s finger, and handing it to Mariane). You must see it close.

Mariane. It is no doubt very beautiful, and throws out a deal of light.

Cléante (placing himself before Mariane, who is about to return the diamond). No, Madam, it is in hands too beautiful. It is a present which my father makes you.

Harpagon. I?

Cléante. Is it not true, father, that you wish this lady to keep it for your sake.

Harpagon (softly to his son). How?

Cléante (to Mariane). A pretty request indeed! He has given me a sign to make you accept it.

Mariane. I do not wish to …

Cléante (to Mariane). Are you jesting? He does not care to take it back.

Harpagon (aside). I am bursting with rage!

Mariane. It would be …

Cléante (preventing Mariane from returning the diamond). No, I tell you; you would offend him.

Mariane. Pray …

Cléante. Not at all.

Harpagon (aside). May the plague …