Inesse and Possibility enter. They are the eldest brothers from two different families; the former holds his lands "in esse" (in actual possession), and the latter holds his lands "in posse" (in anticipated possession)—either of these men could be a prime source of revenue for the Courtesan. Inesse and Possibility ask the Mother where the Courtesan is; the Mother tells them she is studying the Bible. They ask if they can see her. The Mother says she will only grant permission after they have sworn to refrain from using coarse language.