Arabella Girls dissimulate often enough, and pretend to scruples at the name of a husband, masking their true desires, often saying they love no one except the convent. As for me, the power of truth presses me and I can find in it neither crime nor weakness. I have a sincere heart, and I tell you, without pretence, that I want to be married, and sooner than later.
Jenny Well said. What's the use, in the spring of youth, to wish to escape the yoke of marriage, and to leave the number of the living? There were husbands long before convents, and I hold the role of spouse is the most ancient, and the most currently fashionable and used—and the most to be followed in all methods. That's what I say!
Albert You both speak in the same spirit—and my views conform to yours. I intend to marry. Rich as I am—they're always proposing a suitable and advantageous match for me—but I always reply that another love holds me, and that my heart prepossessed by your rare beauty sighs for you alone, and that on your side, you adore only me.
Arabella
How's that?
Albert
Yes, sweety, I have declared the love which possesses me for you.
Arabella
What did you say, if you please?
Albert That, at the bottom of your heart, you nourish a sincere passion for me.
Arabella
Where's your discretion, truly?
Albert
Beautiful Arabella, one cannot be happy and remain silent.
Arabella
You ought not to make such an avowal, and so loud.