Har. What, wretch! you do not blush for shame after such a crime?
Val. Of what crime do you speak?
Har. Of what crime I speak? Base villain, as if you did not know what I mean! It is in vain for you to try to hide it; the thing is discovered, and I have just heard all the particulars. How could you thus abuse my kindness, introduce yourself on purpose into my house to betray me, and to play upon me such an abominable trick?
Val. Sir, since everything is known to you, I will neither deny what I have done nor will I try to palliate it.
Jac. (aside). Oh! oh! Have I guessed the truth?
Val. I intended to speak to you about it, and I was watching for a favourable opportunity; but, as this is no longer possible, I beg of you not to be angry, and to hear my motives.
Har. And what fine motives can you possibly give me, infamous thief?
Val. Ah! Sir, I do not deserve these names. I am guilty towards you, it is true; but, after all, my fault is pardonable.
Har. How pardonable? A premeditated trick, and such an assassination as this!
Val. I beseech you not to be so angry with me. When you have heard all I have to say, you will see that the harm is not so great as you make it out to be.