OR. I see a gentleman here who is not ignorant; he will be able to judge of our dispute. Marquis, a word, I beg of you. Allow us to ask you to decide in a quarrel between us two; we had a discussion arising from our different opinions, as to what may distinguish the most perfect lovers.
ER. That is a question difficult to settle; you had best look for a more skilful judge.
OR. No: you speak to no purpose. Your wit is much commended; and we know you. We know that everyone, with justice, gives you the character of a…
ER. Oh, I beseech you …
OR. In a word, you shall be our umpire, and you must spare us a couple of minutes.
CL. (To Orante). Now you are retaining one who must condemn you: for, to be brief, if what I venture to hold be true, this gentleman will give the victory to my arguments.
ER. (Aside). Would that I could get hold of any rascal to invent something to get me off!
OR. (To Climène). For my part, I am too much assured of his sense to fear that he will decide against me. (To Éraste). Well, this great contest which rages between us is to know whether a lover should be jealous.
CL. Or, the better to explain my opinion and yours, which ought to please most, a jealous man or one that is not so?
OR. For my part, I am clearly for the last.