The fop, Acaste, is telling Clitandre about his own merits. He can find no reason to be discontent with himself, since he is rich, young, and of a good family, and furthermore, he exhibits a certain style in everything he does. He always sits on the stage during productions of plays and acts as the self-appointed critic. In conclusion, he can say "without conceit" that he dresses well and is admired by all of the fairer sex.
Clitandre wonders why Acaste, who has so many easy conquests elsewhere, spends so much time trying to win Célimène' s affections. In response to Clitandre's inquiry about his relationship to Célimène, Acaste at first says that he has reason to believe that he is favored by the lady, but then pretends that he is deceived in thinking so. He refuses to admit the extent of his relationship. The two fops then make a pact whereby if one does receive definite proof of Célimène's affections, the other will automatically withdraw.
Célimène returns and is surprised to find them both still present. At this moment, the servant, Basque, announces the arrival of Arsinoé. Acaste and Clitandre make some slanderous remarks about Arsinoé, and Célimène soon picks up the refrain. She complains about such a person as Arsinoé, who would like very much to have a lover but being unable to get one, pretends to be such a prude. Just as Célimène is disparaging her, the lady arrives and immediately Célimène changes her tone and tells the new guest how pleased she is to see her.
