ELI. But he will soon discover the truth if they call in the doctor.

VAL. Not a bit of it. Do you imagine that a doctor understands what he
is about? Nonsense! Don't be afraid. Believe me, you may complain of
any disease you please, the doctor will be at no loss to explain to
you from what it proceeds.




SCENE IX--HARPAGON, ELISE, VALERE.


HAR. (_alone, at the farther end of the stage_). It is nothing,
thank heaven!

VAL. (_not seeing_ HARPAGON). In short, flight is the last
resource we have left us to avoid all this; and if your love, dear
Elise, is as strong as.... (_Seeing_ HARPAGON) Yes, a daughter is
bound to obey her father. She has no right to inquire what a husband
offered to her is like, and when the most important question, "without
dowry," presents itself, she should accept anybody that is given her.

HAR. Good; that was beautifully said!

VAL. I beg your pardon, Sir, if I carry it a little too far, and take
upon myself to speak to her as I do.

HAR. Why, I am delighted, and I wish you to have her entirely under