ACT IV SCENE I (CLEANTE, TARTUFFE) CLEANTE Yes, the whole town is talking about it, And they don't think it does you much credit. And I've sought you out, sir, just for the sake Of telling you bluntly what I think's at stake. I'm not going to dredge up the whole dispute; The fact is Damis is in disrepute. Supposing that he did act like a fool And that you are unfairly being called cruel, Shouldn't a Christian pardon the offense And purge his soul of desire for vengeance? And should you permit him, for this one goof, To be driven away from his father's roof? I'll tell you again, and I'll be bold: You are scandalizing both young and old. If you take my advice, you will seek a truce And not be a party to this boy's abuse. Make an offering to God of your acrimony, And restore the son to his patrimony. TARTUFFE Alas! As for myself, I seek that solace: I do not have for him the slightest malice; I wholly forgive him of any blame, And long to restore him to his good name. But in the service of God I can't permit It, for if he remains I shall have to quit This house. No prior offense holds a candle To his. Our meeting would cause a huge scandal. Lord only knows what people would assume! They would impute it to cunning, I presume, And say that my guilt has made me pretend To excuse him of any intent to offend, And that I fear him and wish to placate him As a crafty move in my plan to checkmate him. |
|||||||||
|
