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Robert Browning (1812–1889). A Blot in the ’Scutcheon.
The Harvard Classics. 1909–14.

Act III Scene II

Lawrence, put up my hair-cloth shirt and scourage,

And pray that Heaven may shed its light upon you.

If any come to see me, say I’m gone

To share my alms among the prisoners.

What affectation and what showing off!

What do you want with me?

To tell you…

Ah!

Before you speak, pray take this handkerchief.

What?

Cover up that bosom, which I can’t

Endure to look on. Things like that offend

Our souls, and fill our minds with sinful thoughts.

Are you so tender to temptation, then,

And has the flesh such power upon your senses?

I don’t know how you get in such a heat;

For my part, I am not so prone to lust,

And I could see you stripped from head to foot,

And all your hide not tempt me in the least.

Tartuffe Show in your speech some little modesty,

Or I must instantly take leave of you.

No, no, I’ll leave you to yourself; I’ve only

One thing to say: Madam will soon be down,

And begs the favour of a word with you.

Ah! Willingly.

How gentle all at once!

My faith, I still believe I’ve hit upon it.

Will she come soon?

I think I hear her now.

Yes, here she is herself; I’ll leave you with her.