JOHN/TARTUFFE

Madam, I am overjoyed.

'Tis sweet to find myself alone with you.

This is an opportunity I've asked

Of Heaven, many a time; till now, in vain.

ANNA/ELMIRE

Tartuffe, All that I wish, is just a word from you,

Quite frank and open, hiding nothing from me.

JOHN/TARTUFFE

I too could wish, as Heaven's especial favour,

To lay my soul quite open to your eyes,

And swear to you, the trouble that I made

About those visits which your charms attract,

Does not result from any hatred toward you,

But rather from a passionate devotion,

And purest motives ...

ANNA/ELMIRE

That is how I take it,

I think 'tis my salvation that concerns you.

JOHN/TARTUFFE

(pressing her finger tips)

Madam, 'tis so; and such is my devotion ...

ANNA/ELMIRE

Ouch! but you squeeze too hard.

JOHN/TARTUFFE

Excess of