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?

Elmire Monologue from Tartuffe

Rehearse Elmire's monologue