The Locksmith: A Comic Opera (1770) - Page 19

J U L I E N.

The thing is...

N I C O L E.

Well! What! The thing is?...

J U L I E N.

I do not dare tell you, Madame Nicole.

N I C O L E.

It is some foolishness, apparently; but I want to know right now, or do not ever set foot here again.

J U L I E N.

Well! I am going to tell you. It is that I have persuaded Bastienne to come to her grandfather's house. Because of you, he is willing to take an interest in our marriage, and I am bringing her these clothes so that she can leave here without being recognized.

N I C O L E.

And she consented to that without saying anything to me?

J U L I E N.

She was afraid that you would not consent to it.

N I C O L E.

Indeed she had good reason: that is a fine escapade original: "équipée"; a reckless adventure or thoughtless scheme, often involving a secret departure. you were advising there?

J U L I E N.

Since time presses us, and we have no other resource.

N I C O L E.

She will stay here.

J U L I E N.

But consider that the good man is waiting for us, that you promised her to my love; that time is passing; that I will lose her if we delay, and that....

N I C O L E.

You are a scatterbrain original: "étourdi"; a term for a young man who acts without thinking of the consequences, a common character type in French comedy..

J U L I E N.

My good aunt, Madame Nicole, my dear aunt.

N I C O L E.

I do not want to.