MAR. I do not understand Latin, and have not learned philosophy out of Cyrus, as you have done.
[Footnote: _Artamene, ou le Grand Cyrus_, (1649-1653) a novel in ten volumes by Madle. de Scudery.]
MAD. Impertinent creature! How can this be borne! And who is this footman's master?
MAR. He told me it was the Marquis de Mascarille.
MAD. Ah, my dear! A marquis! a marquis! Well, go and tell him we are visible. This is certainly some wit who has heard of us.
MAD. We had better receive him here in this parlour than in our room. Let us at least arrange our hair a little and maintain our reputation. Come in quickly, and reach us the Counsellor of the Graces.
MAR. Upon my word, I do not know what sort of a beast that is; you must speak like a Christian if you would have me know your meaning.
CAT. Bring us the looking-glass, you blockhead! and take care not to contaminate its brightness by the communication of your image.
MASC. Stop, chairman, stop. Easy does it! Easy, easy! I think these boobies intend to break me to pieces by bumping me against the walls and the pavement.
1 CHAIR. Ay, marry, because the gate is narrow and you would make us bring you in here.
MASC. To be sure, you rascals! Would you have me expose the fulness of my plumes to the inclemency of the rainy season, and let the mud receive the impression of my shoes? Begone; take away your chair.
2 CHAIR. Sir, please to give us our money, I say.
MASC. (_Giving him a box on the ear_). What, scoundrel, to ask money from a person of my rank!
2 CHAIR. Is this the way poor people are to be paid? Will your rank get us a dinner?
MASC. Ha, ha! I shall teach you to keep your right place. Those low fellows dare to make fun of me!
1 CHAIR. (_Taking up one of the poles of his chair_). Come, pay us quickly.
1 CHAIR. I mean to have my money at once.
MASC. Ay, you speak properly, but the other is a scoundrel, who does not know what he says. There, are you satisfied?
1 CHAIR. No, I am not satisfied; you boxed my friend's ears, and ... (_holding up his pole_).
MASC. Gently; there is something for the box on the ear. People may get anything from me when they go about it in the right way. Go now, but come and fetch me by and by to carry me to the Louvre to the _petit coucher_.