A Selection from the Comedies of Marivaux

by Pierre Carlet de Chamblain de Marivaux

[195] EN CONTEZ À. See note 38.

[196] LE LANGAGE BIEN PRÉCIEUX. The use of the expression du goût, in the sense of 'a liking,' 'a fancy,' was much more recherché in the eighteenth century than now. Hence Mario's feigned surprise at hearing such words from the lips of a supposed valet. Compare: "Goût, en galanterie, simple inclination, amusement passager, mot des gens de cour" (De Caillières, 1690).

[197] A LE BIEN PRENDRE, 'If you look at things rightly.'

[198] PASSEZ, 'Overlook.'

[199] LES, in later editions mes, which is evidently the better form.

[200] EST BIEN AUSSI, for tout aussi.

[201] QUE JE NE L'AIME. See note 137.

[202] TON COEUR A DE CAQUET, 'How effusive your heart is.'

[203] CELA VAUT FAIT = C'est comme si c'était fait: Regardez la chose comme faite (Dict. of the Academy, 1878).

[204] IMPERTINENCE = Mésalliance.