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Voltaire, 1694-1778

"Socrates"


SOCRATES:
It's true that her father, Agathon, who was my friend, that is to say
much more than just a relative, confided to me by his will this
amiable and virtuous orphan.
ANITUS:
With considerable riches? For they say it's the best part of Athens.
SOCRATES:
On that subject, I can give you no enlightenment; her father, that
kind friend whose wishes are sacred to me, forbade me by that same
will, to divulge the condition of his daughter's fortune.
ANITUS:
That respect for the last wishes of a friend, and that discretion are
worthy of your beautiful soul. But people know well enough that
Agathon was a rich man.
SOCRATES:
He deserved to be, if riches are a favor of the Supreme Being.
ANITUS:
They say that a little hare-brain named Sophronine, is paying court to
her on account of her fortune. But I am persuaded that you will show
the door to such a character, and that a man like me won't have a
rival.
SOCRATES:
I know what I must think of a man like you: but it's not for me to
obstruct Aglaea's feelings. I serve her as her father; I am not her
master. She must dispose of her heart. I regard constraint as a crime.
Speak to her: If she listens to your propositions, I will consent to
her will.


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