Tartuffe. You wish to speak with me in here, I'm told. Elmire. Yes. I now have some secrets to unfold, But shut the door before I say a word And look around--we mustn't be overheard. [Tartuffe closes the door and returns.] I don't want another fracas to ensue Like the one that overtook us hitherto. Never before have I been so dismayed! Damis startled me and made me afraid For you. You must have seen that I did my best To disrupt his plan and soothe his unrest. It is true that I was so filled with shame That I never thought of denying his claim, But by the grace of God, I'm nearly sure All is for the best and we're now more secure. The prestige of your name has dispelled the storm, And my husband will never suspect you of harm. Defying those with rumors to foment, He wants us together at every moment. And that is why without blame I can Be alone with you although you're a man, And that allows me to open my heart Willingly to the sweet thoughts you impart. Tartuffe. I find it odd that you have kind words to say; Earlier you treated me in a different way. Elmire. Ah! If you're angry about that rebuff, You know nothing about a woman's love! And how little you know about our intent If you think a weak defense is really meant! At such times our modesty must contend With the tender feelings that triumph in the end. No matter how strongly you make love's claim, In embracing it we always feel some shame. We resist at first, but in our faces It's clear that we'll soon yield to your embraces. Our words and our wishes are often opposed: A refusal may mean we accept what's proposed. No doubt I am making too free a confession And I may be committing an indiscretion, But since my attempt at silence has gone awry, Ask yourself why I sought to pacify Damis, and what made me listen so long And so kindly to your sweet love song? Would I have reacted as you saw me do If the offer of your heart didn't please me too? And what should you be able to conclude From my fervent desire to preclude The marriage that has been announced just now? Isn't it that I'd hate for a wedding vow To come between us, and that I care for you And want nothing at all to split us in two? Tartuffe. There is no pleasure in Heaven above Sweeter than such words from the lips I love; Their honeyed sound flows richly through my senses With the sweetness of the purest essences. The pleasure of pleasing you is my one goal, And my heart finds happiness in that role, But that heart also takes the slight liberty Of daring to doubt this felicity.