Orgon, Mariane

Orgon. Mariane.
Mariane. Yes.
Orgon. Come here. We need to speak
Privately.
Mariane. Father, what is it you seek?
Orgon [looking in the closet]. I'm seeing if anyone can overhear us.
This is a perfect place for such a purpose.
There now, it's okay. Mariane, I find
You endowed with a heart that's sweet and kind
And you have always been most dear to me.
Mariane. A father's love brings true felicity.
Orgon. Well said, my child! And to earn it fully
You should devote yourself to contenting me.
Mariane. That's how my devotion is put to the proof.
Orgon. Good. Now what do you think of our guest, Tartuffe?
Mariane. Who me?
Orgon. You. Think well before you reply.
Mariane. Oh my! Tell me what to say . . . and I'll comply.

[Dorine enters quietly and hides herself behind Orgon without being seen.]

Orgon. That's sensibly spoken. Now tell me, girl,
That his merit shines like a gleaming pearl,
That he warms your heart, and that you would rejoice
To have him be your husband by my choice.
Eh?

[Mariane recoils in dismay.]

Mariane. Eh?
Orgon. What's that?
Mariane. Please?
Orgon. What?
Mariane. Am I in error?
Orgon. Why?
Mariane. Whom do you wish that I should now swear
Touches my heart--and who would rejoice me
If we joined, by your choice, in matrimony?
Orgon. Tartuffe.
Mariane. Out of the question, father, I assure
You! Why urge on me such an imposture?
Orgon. But, my dear, I wish it to be true,
And it should be enough that I've chosen for you.
Mariane. What? Father, would you . . .?
Orgon. Yes, I intend, you see
To unite in marriage Tartuffe and my family.
He will be your husband. I do declare it!
Since you have promised . . .

SCENE II
Dorine, Orgon, Mariane

Orgon [perceiving Dorine]. What do you stare at?
You must be eaten up with curiosity
To eavesdrop on my daughter and me.
Dorine. I don't know whether the rumor I hear
Is sly conjecture or a wicked smear;
But I've just heard word of this marriage,
And I trust it is only verbiage.
Orgon. Why? Is the idea itself so very absurd?
Dori