Count. The time was, Figaro, when thou wert more open—Formerly thou wouldst tell me any thing.
Figaro. And at present I conceal nothing.
Count. What can be the Countess’s motives—(The Count puts his arm round Figaro’s neck—By-play again)—I—Thou seest I anticipate her wishes, load her with presents——
Figaro. Will give her any thing but yourself—Of what worth are Trinkets when we are in want of Necessaries?
Count. Come, come; be sincere—Tell me—How much did the Countess give thee for this last plot?
Figaro. As much as your Lordship gave me for helping you to steal her from her old jealous Guardian—“A noble Lord should not endeavour to degrade an honest Servant, lest he should make him a Knave.”
Count. But wherefore is there continually some Mystery in thy conduct?
Figaro. Because the Conduct of others is mysterious.
Count. Appearances, my dear Figaro, really speak thee a great Knave.
Figaro. (Looking round at the Count’s hand upon his shoulders, and observing his familiarity)—Appearances, my dear Lord, are frequently false—I am much better than I appear to be-Can the Great in general say as much?—(Aside)—Take that.