I would never do
homage to the most perfect object by whom I could be smitten, if she did
not return my passion.
ERAS. However, Lucile...
VAL. Lucile does willingly everything my passion can desire.
ERAS. You are easily satisfied then.
VAL. Not so easily as you may think.
ERAS. I, however, may, without vanity, believe that I am in her favour.
VAL. And I know that I have a very good share of it.
ERAS. Do not deceive yourself; believe me.
VAL. Believe me, do not be too credulous, and take too much for granted.
ERAS. If I might show you a certain proof that her heart...but no, it
would too much distress you.
VAL. If I might discover a secret to you...but it might grieve you, and
so I will be discreet.
ERAS. You really urge me too far, and though much against my will, I see
I must lower your presumption. Read that.
VAL. (_After having read the letter_). These are tender words.
ERAS. You know the handwriting?
VAL. Yes, it is Lucile's.
ERAS. Well! where is now your boasted certainty...?
VAL. (_Smiling and going away_). Farewell, Eraste.
GR.-RE. He is mad, surely. What reason has he to laugh?
ERAS. He certainly surprises me, and between ourselves I cannot imagine
what the deuce of a mystery is hidden under this.
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