CL. And I that, if our sentiments are to be shewn, it ought to be for
him who makes his love most apparent.
OR. Yes; but we perceive the ardour of a lover much better through
respect than through jealousy.
CL. It is my opinion that he who is attached to us, loves us the more
that he shows himself jealous?
OR. Fie, Climene, do not call lovers those men whose love is like
hatred, and who, instead of showing their respect and their ardour, give
themselves no thought save how to become wearisome; whose minds, being
ever prompted by some gloomy passion, seek to make a crime out of the
slightest actions, are too blind to believe them innocent, and demand an
explanation for a glance; who, if we seem a little sad, at once complain
that their presence is the cause of it, and when the least joy sparkles
in our eyes, will have their rivals to be at the bottom of it; who, in
short, assuming a right because they are greatly in love, never speak to
us save to pick a quarrel, dare to forbid anyone to approach us, and
become the tyrants of their very conquerors. As for me, I want lovers to
be respectful; their submission is a sure proof of our sway.
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