The Sonorous Island

DURBIN.

How, it is not permitted to speak in prose?

ZERBIN.

Ah, Lord, in prose! Sometimes they allow themselves verses without singing, but just as one uses the phrase, my dear friend, out of affection or contempt for those to whom one is speaking.

DURBIN.

And Celenie, what has become of her?

ZERBIN.

Celenie, who wanted to throw herself at the feet of the favorite Sultana, was led to the feet of the Sultan. Fortunately she had been instructed, & her Ariette short aria was appreciated, within two measures; & I believe they will return our ship to us.

DURBIN.

What a fatal voyage!

ZERBIN.

What a whim, too, to go consult that old Fairy about the success of your loves!

DURBIN.

You know what she answered.

ZERBIN.

By golly yes, pleasant answer with her nasal drone! My son, my son, your Celenie will love you; but she will only tell you when she no longer speaks. You insist, you press her, you torment her: yes, yes, you will only know what she thinks when she is not thinking. Can one have more complete drivel?

DURBIN.

It is true that I understand nothing of it.

ZERBIN.

Hey! do you understand any better what she answered me when I consulted her; for valets have the mania of doing like their masters, & it is not what they do best. My boy, my boy, you want to know if you will succeed in your loves, you will never be so far from them as when you are close. Do you understand?