At all events, that is my disposition; and I thank Heaven for it. I
would never lay down these strict rules which make children wish their
parents dead.
SGAN. But the liberty acquired in youth is not so easily withdrawn later
on; all those feelings will please you but little when you have to
change her mode of life.
AR. And why change it?
SGAN. Why?
AR. Yes.
SGAN. I do not know.
AR. Is there anything in it that offends honour?
SGAN. Why, if you marry her, she may demand the same freedom which she
enjoyed as a girl?
AR. Why not?
SGAN. And you so far agree with her as to let her have patches and
ribbons?
AR. Doubtless.
SGAN. To let her gad about madly at every ball and public assembly?
AR. Yes, certainly.
SGAN. And the beaux will visit at your house?
AR. What then?
SGAN. Who will junket and give entertainments?
AR. With all my heart.
SGAN. And your wife is to listen to their fine speeches?
AR. Exactly.
SGAN. And you will look on at these gallant visitors with a show of
indifference?
AR. Of course.
SGAN. Go on, you old idiot. (_To Isabella_). Get indoors, and hear
no more of this shameful doctrine.
SCENE III.--ARISTE, SGANARELLE, L?ONOR, LISETTE.
AR. I mean to trust to the faithfulness of my wife, and intend always to
live as I have lived.
SGAN. How pleased I shall be to see him victimized!
AR. I cannot say what fate has in store for me; but as for you, I know
that if you fail to be so, it is no fault of yours, for you are doing
everything to bring it about.
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