- Just then, Valère shows up – and he's got even more bad news.
- He's just had word that Tartuffe has denounced Orgon to the King and used the contents of the strongbox to back up his claims. He tells Orgon that he must flee the country immediately.
- Cléante states the obvious: Tartuffe's done this to make sure he can seize Orgon's estate without trouble.
- Valère urges Orgon to leave; he's got a carriage waiting outside, and enough cash to get him out. He promises to travel with him until they find a safe place to stay.Orgon says his goodbyes and is half out the door when…