Svanhild[impetuously].
Svanhild[impetuously].
Svanhild[impetuously].
But why?
But why?
But why?
But why?
Falk[losing self-control].
Falk[losing self-control].
Falk[losing self-control].
Why, why? Because I hate to go aboutWith soul bared boldly to the vulgar eye,As Jock and Jennie hang their passions out;To wear my glowing heart upon my sleeve,Like women in low dresses. You, alone,Svanhild, you only,—you, I did believe,—Well, it is past,thatdream, for ever flown.—
Why, why? Because I hate to go aboutWith soul bared boldly to the vulgar eye,As Jock and Jennie hang their passions out;To wear my glowing heart upon my sleeve,Like women in low dresses. You, alone,Svanhild, you only,—you, I did believe,—Well, it is past,thatdream, for ever flown.—
Why, why? Because I hate to go aboutWith soul bared boldly to the vulgar eye,As Jock and Jennie hang their passions out;To wear my glowing heart upon my sleeve,Like women in low dresses. You, alone,Svanhild, you only,—you, I did believe,—Well, it is past,thatdream, for ever flown.—
Why, why? Because I hate to go about
With soul bared boldly to the vulgar eye,
As Jock and Jennie hang their passions out;
To wear my glowing heart upon my sleeve,
Like women in low dresses. You, alone,
Svanhild, you only,—you, I did believe,—
Well, it is past,thatdream, for ever flown.—
[She goes to the summer-house and looks out; he follows.
[She goes to the summer-house and looks out; he follows.
You listen—?
You listen—?
You listen—?
You listen—?
Svanhild.
Svanhild.
Svanhild.
To another voice, that sings.Hark! every evening when the sun’s at rest,A little bird floats hither on beating wings,—See there—it darted from its leafy nest—And, do you know, it is my faith,—as oftAs God makes any songless soul, He sendsA little bird to be her friend of friends,And sing for ever in her garden-croft.
To another voice, that sings.Hark! every evening when the sun’s at rest,A little bird floats hither on beating wings,—See there—it darted from its leafy nest—And, do you know, it is my faith,—as oftAs God makes any songless soul, He sendsA little bird to be her friend of friends,And sing for ever in her garden-croft.
To another voice, that sings.Hark! every evening when the sun’s at rest,A little bird floats hither on beating wings,—See there—it darted from its leafy nest—And, do you know, it is my faith,—as oftAs God makes any songless soul, He sendsA little bird to be her friend of friends,And sing for ever in her garden-croft.
To another voice, that sings.
Hark! every evening when the sun’s at rest,
A little bird floats hither on beating wings,—
See there—it darted from its leafy nest—
And, do you know, it is my faith,—as oft
As God makes any songless soul, He sends
A little bird to be her friend of friends,
And sing for ever in her garden-croft.
Falk[picking up a stone].
Falk[picking up a stone].
Falk[picking up a stone].
Then must the owner and the bird be near,Or its song’s squandered on a stranger’s ear.
Then must the owner and the bird be near,Or its song’s squandered on a stranger’s ear.
Then must the owner and the bird be near,Or its song’s squandered on a stranger’s ear.
Then must the owner and the bird be near,
Or its song’s squandered on a stranger’s ear.
Svanhild.
Svanhild.
Svanhild.
Yes, that is true; but I’ve discovered mine.Of speech and song I am denied the power,But when it warbles in its leafy bower,Poems flow in upon my brain like wine—Ah, yes,—they fleet—they are not to be won—
Yes, that is true; but I’ve discovered mine.Of speech and song I am denied the power,But when it warbles in its leafy bower,Poems flow in upon my brain like wine—Ah, yes,—they fleet—they are not to be won—
Yes, that is true; but I’ve discovered mine.Of speech and song I am denied the power,But when it warbles in its leafy bower,Poems flow in upon my brain like wine—Ah, yes,—they fleet—they are not to be won—
Yes, that is true; but I’ve discovered mine.
Of speech and song I am denied the power,
But when it warbles in its leafy bower,
Poems flow in upon my brain like wine—
Ah, yes,—they fleet—they are not to be won—
[Falkthrows the stone.Svanhildscreams.
[Falkthrows the stone.Svanhildscreams.
O God, you’ve hit it! Ah, what have you done!
O God, you’ve hit it! Ah, what have you done!
O God, you’ve hit it! Ah, what have you done!
O God, you’ve hit it! Ah, what have you done!
[She hurries out to the right and then quickly returns.
[She hurries out to the right and then quickly returns.
O pity! pity!
O pity! pity!
O pity! pity!
O pity! pity!
Falk[in passionate agitation].
Falk[in passionate agitation].
Falk[in passionate agitation].
No,—but eye for eye,Svanhild, and tooth for tooth. Now you’ll attendNo further greetings from your garden-friend,No guerdon from the land of melody.That is my vengeance: as you slew, I slay.
No,—but eye for eye,Svanhild, and tooth for tooth. Now you’ll attendNo further greetings from your garden-friend,No guerdon from the land of melody.That is my vengeance: as you slew, I slay.
No,—but eye for eye,Svanhild, and tooth for tooth. Now you’ll attendNo further greetings from your garden-friend,No guerdon from the land of melody.That is my vengeance: as you slew, I slay.
No,—but eye for eye,
Svanhild, and tooth for tooth. Now you’ll attend
No further greetings from your garden-friend,
No guerdon from the land of melody.
That is my vengeance: as you slew, I slay.
Svanhild.
Svanhild.
Svanhild.
I slew?
I slew?
I slew?
I slew?
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
You slew. Until this very day,A clear-voiced song-bird warbled in my soul;See,—now one passing bell for both may toll—You’ve killed it!
You slew. Until this very day,A clear-voiced song-bird warbled in my soul;See,—now one passing bell for both may toll—You’ve killed it!
You slew. Until this very day,A clear-voiced song-bird warbled in my soul;See,—now one passing bell for both may toll—You’ve killed it!
You slew. Until this very day,
A clear-voiced song-bird warbled in my soul;
See,—now one passing bell for both may toll—
You’ve killed it!
Svanhild.
Svanhild.
Svanhild.
Have I?
Have I?
Have I?
Have I?
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
Yes, for you have slainMy young, high-hearted, joyous exultation—[Contemptuously.By your betrothal!
Yes, for you have slainMy young, high-hearted, joyous exultation—[Contemptuously.By your betrothal!
Yes, for you have slainMy young, high-hearted, joyous exultation—[Contemptuously.By your betrothal!
Yes, for you have slain
My young, high-hearted, joyous exultation—
[Contemptuously.
By your betrothal!
Svanhild.
Svanhild.
Svanhild.
How! But pray, explain—!
How! But pray, explain—!
How! But pray, explain—!
How! But pray, explain—!
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
O, it’s in full accord with expectation;He gets his licence, enters orders, speeds toA post,—as missionary in the West—
O, it’s in full accord with expectation;He gets his licence, enters orders, speeds toA post,—as missionary in the West—
O, it’s in full accord with expectation;He gets his licence, enters orders, speeds toA post,—as missionary in the West—
O, it’s in full accord with expectation;
He gets his licence, enters orders, speeds to
A post,—as missionary in the West—
Svanhild[in the same tone].
Svanhild[in the same tone].
Svanhild[in the same tone].
A pretty penny, also, he succeeds to;—For it is Lind you speak of—?
A pretty penny, also, he succeeds to;—For it is Lind you speak of—?
A pretty penny, also, he succeeds to;—For it is Lind you speak of—?
A pretty penny, also, he succeeds to;—
For it is Lind you speak of—?
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
You know bestOf whom I speak.
You know bestOf whom I speak.
You know bestOf whom I speak.
You know best
Of whom I speak.
Svanhild[with a subdued smile].
Svanhild[with a subdued smile].
Svanhild[with a subdued smile].
As the bride’s sister, true,I cannot help—
As the bride’s sister, true,I cannot help—
As the bride’s sister, true,I cannot help—
As the bride’s sister, true,
I cannot help—
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
Great God! It is not you—?
Great God! It is not you—?
Great God! It is not you—?
Great God! It is not you—?
Svanhild.
Svanhild.
Svanhild.
Who win this overplus of bliss? Ah no!
Who win this overplus of bliss? Ah no!
Who win this overplus of bliss? Ah no!
Who win this overplus of bliss? Ah no!
Falk[with almost childish joy].
Falk[with almost childish joy].
Falk[with almost childish joy].
It is not you! O God be glorified!What love, what mercy does He not bestow!I shall not see you as another’s bride;—’Twas but the fire of pain He bade me bear—[Tries to seize her hand.O hear me, Svanhild, hear me then—
It is not you! O God be glorified!What love, what mercy does He not bestow!I shall not see you as another’s bride;—’Twas but the fire of pain He bade me bear—[Tries to seize her hand.O hear me, Svanhild, hear me then—
It is not you! O God be glorified!What love, what mercy does He not bestow!I shall not see you as another’s bride;—’Twas but the fire of pain He bade me bear—[Tries to seize her hand.O hear me, Svanhild, hear me then—
It is not you! O God be glorified!
What love, what mercy does He not bestow!
I shall not see you as another’s bride;—
’Twas but the fire of pain He bade me bear—
[Tries to seize her hand.
O hear me, Svanhild, hear me then—
Svanhild[pointing quickly to the background].
Svanhild[pointing quickly to the background].
Svanhild[pointing quickly to the background].
See there!
See there!
See there!
See there!
[She goes towards the house. At the same momentMrs. Halm, Anna, Miss Jay, Guldstad, Stiver,andLindemerge from the background. During the previous scene the sun has set; it is now dark.
[She goes towards the house. At the same momentMrs. Halm, Anna, Miss Jay, Guldstad, Stiver,andLindemerge from the background. During the previous scene the sun has set; it is now dark.
Mrs. Halm[toSvanhild].
Mrs. Halm[toSvanhild].
Mrs. Halm[toSvanhild].
The Strawmans may be momently expected.Where have you been?
The Strawmans may be momently expected.Where have you been?
The Strawmans may be momently expected.Where have you been?
The Strawmans may be momently expected.
Where have you been?
Miss Jay[after glancing atFalk].
Miss Jay[after glancing atFalk].
Miss Jay[after glancing atFalk].
Your colour’s very high.
Your colour’s very high.
Your colour’s very high.
Your colour’s very high.
Svanhild.
Svanhild.
Svanhild.
A little face-ache; it will soon pass by.
A little face-ache; it will soon pass by.
A little face-ache; it will soon pass by.
A little face-ache; it will soon pass by.
Mrs. Halm.
Mrs. Halm.
Mrs. Halm.
And yet you walk at nightfall unprotected?Arrange the room, and see that tea is ready;Let everything be nice; I know the lady.[Svanhildgoes in.
And yet you walk at nightfall unprotected?Arrange the room, and see that tea is ready;Let everything be nice; I know the lady.[Svanhildgoes in.
And yet you walk at nightfall unprotected?Arrange the room, and see that tea is ready;Let everything be nice; I know the lady.[Svanhildgoes in.
And yet you walk at nightfall unprotected?
Arrange the room, and see that tea is ready;
Let everything be nice; I know the lady.
[Svanhildgoes in.
Stiver[toFalk].
Stiver[toFalk].
Stiver[toFalk].
What is the colour of this parson’s coat?
What is the colour of this parson’s coat?
What is the colour of this parson’s coat?
What is the colour of this parson’s coat?
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
I guess bread-taxers would not catch his vote.
I guess bread-taxers would not catch his vote.
I guess bread-taxers would not catch his vote.
I guess bread-taxers would not catch his vote.
Stiver.
Stiver.
Stiver.
How if one made allusion to the storeOf verses, yet unpublished, in my drawer?
How if one made allusion to the storeOf verses, yet unpublished, in my drawer?
How if one made allusion to the storeOf verses, yet unpublished, in my drawer?
How if one made allusion to the store
Of verses, yet unpublished, in my drawer?
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
It might do something.
It might do something.
It might do something.
It might do something.
Stiver.
Stiver.
Stiver.
Would to heaven it might!Our wedding’s imminent; our purses light.Courtship’s a very serious affair.
Would to heaven it might!Our wedding’s imminent; our purses light.Courtship’s a very serious affair.
Would to heaven it might!Our wedding’s imminent; our purses light.Courtship’s a very serious affair.
Would to heaven it might!
Our wedding’s imminent; our purses light.
Courtship’s a very serious affair.
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
Just so: “Qu’allais-tu faire dans cette galère?â€
Just so: “Qu’allais-tu faire dans cette galère?â€
Just so: “Qu’allais-tu faire dans cette galère?â€
Just so: “Qu’allais-tu faire dans cette galère?â€
Stiver.
Stiver.
Stiver.
Is courtship a“galère�
Is courtship a“galère�
Is courtship a“galère�
Is courtship a“galère�
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
No, married lives;—All servitude, captivity, and gyves.
No, married lives;—All servitude, captivity, and gyves.
No, married lives;—All servitude, captivity, and gyves.
No, married lives;—
All servitude, captivity, and gyves.
Stiver[seeingMiss Jayapproach].
Stiver[seeingMiss Jayapproach].
Stiver[seeingMiss Jayapproach].
You little know what wealth a man obtainsFrom woman’s eloquence and woman’s brains.
You little know what wealth a man obtainsFrom woman’s eloquence and woman’s brains.
You little know what wealth a man obtainsFrom woman’s eloquence and woman’s brains.
You little know what wealth a man obtains
From woman’s eloquence and woman’s brains.
Miss Jay[aside toStiver].
Miss Jay[aside toStiver].
Miss Jay[aside toStiver].
Will Guldstad give us credit, think you?
Will Guldstad give us credit, think you?
Will Guldstad give us credit, think you?
Will Guldstad give us credit, think you?
Stiver[peevishly];
Stiver[peevishly];
Stiver[peevishly];
IAm not quite certain of it yet: I’ll try.
IAm not quite certain of it yet: I’ll try.
IAm not quite certain of it yet: I’ll try.
I
Am not quite certain of it yet: I’ll try.
[They withdraw in conversation;LindandAnnaapproach.
[They withdraw in conversation;LindandAnnaapproach.
Lind[aside toFalk].
Lind[aside toFalk].
Lind[aside toFalk].
I can’t endure it longer; in post-hasteI must present her—
I can’t endure it longer; in post-hasteI must present her—
I can’t endure it longer; in post-hasteI must present her—
I can’t endure it longer; in post-haste
I must present her—
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
You had best refrain,And not initiate the eye profaneInto your mysteries—
You had best refrain,And not initiate the eye profaneInto your mysteries—
You had best refrain,And not initiate the eye profaneInto your mysteries—
You had best refrain,
And not initiate the eye profane
Into your mysteries—
Lind.
Lind.
Lind.
That would be a jest!—From you, my fellow-boarder, and my mate,To keep concealed my new-found happy state!Nay, now, my head with Fortune’s oil anointed—
That would be a jest!—From you, my fellow-boarder, and my mate,To keep concealed my new-found happy state!Nay, now, my head with Fortune’s oil anointed—
That would be a jest!—From you, my fellow-boarder, and my mate,To keep concealed my new-found happy state!Nay, now, my head with Fortune’s oil anointed—
That would be a jest!—
From you, my fellow-boarder, and my mate,
To keep concealed my new-found happy state!
Nay, now, my head with Fortune’s oil anointed—
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
You think the occasion good to get itcurled?Well, my good friend, you won’t be disappointed;Go and announce your union to the world!
You think the occasion good to get itcurled?Well, my good friend, you won’t be disappointed;Go and announce your union to the world!
You think the occasion good to get itcurled?Well, my good friend, you won’t be disappointed;Go and announce your union to the world!
You think the occasion good to get itcurled?
Well, my good friend, you won’t be disappointed;
Go and announce your union to the world!
Lind.
Lind.
Lind.
Other reflections also weigh with me,And one of more especial gravity;Say that there lurked among our motley bandSome sneaking, sly pretender to her hand;Say, his attentions became undisguised,—We should be disagreeably compromised.
Other reflections also weigh with me,And one of more especial gravity;Say that there lurked among our motley bandSome sneaking, sly pretender to her hand;Say, his attentions became undisguised,—We should be disagreeably compromised.
Other reflections also weigh with me,And one of more especial gravity;Say that there lurked among our motley bandSome sneaking, sly pretender to her hand;Say, his attentions became undisguised,—We should be disagreeably compromised.
Other reflections also weigh with me,
And one of more especial gravity;
Say that there lurked among our motley band
Some sneaking, sly pretender to her hand;
Say, his attentions became undisguised,—
We should be disagreeably compromised.
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
Yes, it is true; it had escaped my mind,You for a higher office were designed,Love as his young licentiate has retained you;Shortly you’ll get a permanent position;But it would be defying all traditionIf at the present moment he ordained you.
Yes, it is true; it had escaped my mind,You for a higher office were designed,Love as his young licentiate has retained you;Shortly you’ll get a permanent position;But it would be defying all traditionIf at the present moment he ordained you.
Yes, it is true; it had escaped my mind,You for a higher office were designed,Love as his young licentiate has retained you;Shortly you’ll get a permanent position;But it would be defying all traditionIf at the present moment he ordained you.
Yes, it is true; it had escaped my mind,
You for a higher office were designed,
Love as his young licentiate has retained you;
Shortly you’ll get a permanent position;
But it would be defying all tradition
If at the present moment he ordained you.
Lind.
Lind.
Lind.
Yes if the merchant does not—
Yes if the merchant does not—
Yes if the merchant does not—
Yes if the merchant does not—
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
What of him?
What of him?
What of him?
What of him?
Anna[troubled].
Anna[troubled].
Anna[troubled].
Oh, it is Lind’s unreasonable whim.
Oh, it is Lind’s unreasonable whim.
Oh, it is Lind’s unreasonable whim.
Oh, it is Lind’s unreasonable whim.
Lind.
Lind.
Lind.
Hush; I’ve a deep foreboding that the manWill rob me of my treasure, if he can.The fellow, as we know, comes daily down,Is rich, unmarried, takes you round the town;In short, my own, regard it as we will,There are a thousand things that bode us ill.
Hush; I’ve a deep foreboding that the manWill rob me of my treasure, if he can.The fellow, as we know, comes daily down,Is rich, unmarried, takes you round the town;In short, my own, regard it as we will,There are a thousand things that bode us ill.
Hush; I’ve a deep foreboding that the manWill rob me of my treasure, if he can.The fellow, as we know, comes daily down,Is rich, unmarried, takes you round the town;In short, my own, regard it as we will,There are a thousand things that bode us ill.
Hush; I’ve a deep foreboding that the man
Will rob me of my treasure, if he can.
The fellow, as we know, comes daily down,
Is rich, unmarried, takes you round the town;
In short, my own, regard it as we will,
There are a thousand things that bode us ill.
Anna[sighing].
Anna[sighing].
Anna[sighing].
Oh, it’s too bad; to-day was so delicious!
Oh, it’s too bad; to-day was so delicious!
Oh, it’s too bad; to-day was so delicious!
Oh, it’s too bad; to-day was so delicious!
Falk[sympathetically toLind].
Falk[sympathetically toLind].
Falk[sympathetically toLind].
Don’t wreck your joy, unfoundedly suspicious,Don’t hoist your flag till time the truth disclose—
Don’t wreck your joy, unfoundedly suspicious,Don’t hoist your flag till time the truth disclose—
Don’t wreck your joy, unfoundedly suspicious,Don’t hoist your flag till time the truth disclose—
Don’t wreck your joy, unfoundedly suspicious,
Don’t hoist your flag till time the truth disclose—
Anna.
Anna.
Anna.
Great God! Miss Jay is looking; hush, be still![She andLindwithdraw in different directions.
Great God! Miss Jay is looking; hush, be still![She andLindwithdraw in different directions.
Great God! Miss Jay is looking; hush, be still![She andLindwithdraw in different directions.
Great God! Miss Jay is looking; hush, be still!
[She andLindwithdraw in different directions.
Falk[looking afterLind].
Falk[looking afterLind].
Falk[looking afterLind].
So to the ruin of his youth he goes.
So to the ruin of his youth he goes.
So to the ruin of his youth he goes.
So to the ruin of his youth he goes.
Guldstad.
Guldstad.
Guldstad.
[Who has meantime been conversing on the steps withMrs. HalmandMiss Jay,approachesFalkand slaps him on the shoulder.
[Who has meantime been conversing on the steps withMrs. HalmandMiss Jay,approachesFalkand slaps him on the shoulder.
Well, brooding on a poem?
Well, brooding on a poem?
Well, brooding on a poem?
Well, brooding on a poem?
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
No, a play.
No, a play.
No, a play.
No, a play.
Guldstad.
Guldstad.
Guldstad.
The deuce;—I never heard it was your line.
The deuce;—I never heard it was your line.
The deuce;—I never heard it was your line.
The deuce;—I never heard it was your line.
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
O no, the author is a friend of mine,And your acquaintance also, I daresay.The knave’s a dashing writer, never doubt.Only imagine, in a single dayHe’s worked a perfect little Idyll out.
O no, the author is a friend of mine,And your acquaintance also, I daresay.The knave’s a dashing writer, never doubt.Only imagine, in a single dayHe’s worked a perfect little Idyll out.
O no, the author is a friend of mine,And your acquaintance also, I daresay.The knave’s a dashing writer, never doubt.Only imagine, in a single dayHe’s worked a perfect little Idyll out.
O no, the author is a friend of mine,
And your acquaintance also, I daresay.
The knave’s a dashing writer, never doubt.
Only imagine, in a single day
He’s worked a perfect little Idyll out.
Guldstad[slily].
Guldstad[slily].
Guldstad[slily].
With happy ending, doubtless!
With happy ending, doubtless!
With happy ending, doubtless!
With happy ending, doubtless!
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
You’re aware,No curtain falls but on a plighted pair.Thus with the Trilogy’s First Part we’ve reckoned;But now the poet’s labour-throes begin;The Comedy of Troth-plight, Part the Second,Thro’ five insipid Acts he has to spin,And of that staple, finally, composePart Third,—or Wedlock’s Tragedy, in prose.
You’re aware,No curtain falls but on a plighted pair.Thus with the Trilogy’s First Part we’ve reckoned;But now the poet’s labour-throes begin;The Comedy of Troth-plight, Part the Second,Thro’ five insipid Acts he has to spin,And of that staple, finally, composePart Third,—or Wedlock’s Tragedy, in prose.
You’re aware,No curtain falls but on a plighted pair.Thus with the Trilogy’s First Part we’ve reckoned;But now the poet’s labour-throes begin;The Comedy of Troth-plight, Part the Second,Thro’ five insipid Acts he has to spin,And of that staple, finally, composePart Third,—or Wedlock’s Tragedy, in prose.
You’re aware,
No curtain falls but on a plighted pair.
Thus with the Trilogy’s First Part we’ve reckoned;
But now the poet’s labour-throes begin;
The Comedy of Troth-plight, Part the Second,
Thro’ five insipid Acts he has to spin,
And of that staple, finally, compose
Part Third,—or Wedlock’s Tragedy, in prose.
Guldstad[smiling].
Guldstad[smiling].
Guldstad[smiling].
The poet’s vein is catching, it would seem.
The poet’s vein is catching, it would seem.
The poet’s vein is catching, it would seem.
The poet’s vein is catching, it would seem.
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
Really? How so, pray?
Really? How so, pray?
Really? How so, pray?
Really? How so, pray?
Guldstad.
Guldstad.
Guldstad.
Since I also poreAnd ponder over a poetic scheme,—[Mysteriously.An actuality—and not a dream.
Since I also poreAnd ponder over a poetic scheme,—[Mysteriously.An actuality—and not a dream.
Since I also poreAnd ponder over a poetic scheme,—[Mysteriously.An actuality—and not a dream.
Since I also pore
And ponder over a poetic scheme,—
[Mysteriously.
An actuality—and not a dream.
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
And pray, who is the hero of your theme?
And pray, who is the hero of your theme?
And pray, who is the hero of your theme?
And pray, who is the hero of your theme?
Guldstad.
Guldstad.
Guldstad.
I’ll tell you that to-morrow—not before.
I’ll tell you that to-morrow—not before.
I’ll tell you that to-morrow—not before.
I’ll tell you that to-morrow—not before.
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
It is yourself!
It is yourself!
It is yourself!
It is yourself!
Guldstad.
Guldstad.
Guldstad.
You think me equal to it?
You think me equal to it?
You think me equal to it?
You think me equal to it?
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
I’m sure no other mortal man could do it.But then the heroine? No city maid,I’ll swear, but of the country, breathing balm?
I’m sure no other mortal man could do it.But then the heroine? No city maid,I’ll swear, but of the country, breathing balm?
I’m sure no other mortal man could do it.But then the heroine? No city maid,I’ll swear, but of the country, breathing balm?
I’m sure no other mortal man could do it.
But then the heroine? No city maid,
I’ll swear, but of the country, breathing balm?
Guldstad[lifting his finger].
Guldstad[lifting his finger].
Guldstad[lifting his finger].
Ah,—that’s the point, and must not be betrayed!—[Changing his tone.Pray tell me your opinion of Miss Halm.
Ah,—that’s the point, and must not be betrayed!—[Changing his tone.Pray tell me your opinion of Miss Halm.
Ah,—that’s the point, and must not be betrayed!—[Changing his tone.Pray tell me your opinion of Miss Halm.
Ah,—that’s the point, and must not be betrayed!—
[Changing his tone.
Pray tell me your opinion of Miss Halm.
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
O you’re best able to pronounce upon her;My voice can neither credit nor dishonour,—[Smiling.But just take care no mischief-maker blotThis fine poetic scheme of which you talk.Suppose I were so shameless as to balkThe meditated climax of the plot?
O you’re best able to pronounce upon her;My voice can neither credit nor dishonour,—[Smiling.But just take care no mischief-maker blotThis fine poetic scheme of which you talk.Suppose I were so shameless as to balkThe meditated climax of the plot?
O you’re best able to pronounce upon her;My voice can neither credit nor dishonour,—[Smiling.But just take care no mischief-maker blotThis fine poetic scheme of which you talk.Suppose I were so shameless as to balkThe meditated climax of the plot?
O you’re best able to pronounce upon her;
My voice can neither credit nor dishonour,—
[Smiling.
But just take care no mischief-maker blot
This fine poetic scheme of which you talk.
Suppose I were so shameless as to balk
The meditated climax of the plot?
Guldstad[good-naturedly].
Guldstad[good-naturedly].
Guldstad[good-naturedly].
Well, I would cry “Amen,†and change my plan.
Well, I would cry “Amen,†and change my plan.
Well, I would cry “Amen,†and change my plan.
Well, I would cry “Amen,†and change my plan.
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
What!
What!
What!
What!
Guldstad.
Guldstad.
Guldstad.
Why, you see, you are a letter’d man;How monstrous were it if your skill’d designWere ruined by a bungler’s hand like mine![Retires to the background.
Why, you see, you are a letter’d man;How monstrous were it if your skill’d designWere ruined by a bungler’s hand like mine![Retires to the background.
Why, you see, you are a letter’d man;How monstrous were it if your skill’d designWere ruined by a bungler’s hand like mine![Retires to the background.
Why, you see, you are a letter’d man;
How monstrous were it if your skill’d design
Were ruined by a bungler’s hand like mine!
[Retires to the background.
Falk[in passing, toLind].
Falk[in passing, toLind].
Falk[in passing, toLind].
Yes, you were right; the merchant’s really schemingThe ruin of your new-won happiness.
Yes, you were right; the merchant’s really schemingThe ruin of your new-won happiness.
Yes, you were right; the merchant’s really schemingThe ruin of your new-won happiness.
Yes, you were right; the merchant’s really scheming
The ruin of your new-won happiness.
Lind[aside toAnna].
Lind[aside toAnna].
Lind[aside toAnna].
Now then you see, my doubting was not dreaming;We’ll go this very moment and confess.
Now then you see, my doubting was not dreaming;We’ll go this very moment and confess.
Now then you see, my doubting was not dreaming;We’ll go this very moment and confess.
Now then you see, my doubting was not dreaming;
We’ll go this very moment and confess.
[They approachMrs. Halm,who is standing withMiss Jayby the house.
[They approachMrs. Halm,who is standing withMiss Jayby the house.
Guldstad[conversing withStiver].
Guldstad[conversing withStiver].
Guldstad[conversing withStiver].
’Tis a fine evening.
’Tis a fine evening.
’Tis a fine evening.
’Tis a fine evening.
Stiver.
Stiver.
Stiver.
Very likely,—whenA man’s disposed—
Very likely,—whenA man’s disposed—
Very likely,—whenA man’s disposed—
Very likely,—when
A man’s disposed—
Guldstad[facetiously].
Guldstad[facetiously].
Guldstad[facetiously].
What, all not running smoothIn true love’s course?
What, all not running smoothIn true love’s course?
What, all not running smoothIn true love’s course?
What, all not running smooth
In true love’s course?
Stiver.
Stiver.
Stiver.
Not that exactly—
Not that exactly—
Not that exactly—
Not that exactly—
Falk[coming up].
Falk[coming up].
Falk[coming up].
ThenWith your engagement?
ThenWith your engagement?
ThenWith your engagement?
Then
With your engagement?
Stiver.
Stiver.
Stiver.
That’s about the truth.
That’s about the truth.
That’s about the truth.
That’s about the truth.
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
Hurrah! Your spendthrift pocket has a groatOr two still left, it seems, of poetry.
Hurrah! Your spendthrift pocket has a groatOr two still left, it seems, of poetry.
Hurrah! Your spendthrift pocket has a groatOr two still left, it seems, of poetry.
Hurrah! Your spendthrift pocket has a groat
Or two still left, it seems, of poetry.
Stiver[stiffly].
Stiver[stiffly].
Stiver[stiffly].
I cannot see what poetry has gotTo do with my engagement, or with me.
I cannot see what poetry has gotTo do with my engagement, or with me.
I cannot see what poetry has gotTo do with my engagement, or with me.
I cannot see what poetry has got
To do with my engagement, or with me.
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
You are not meant to see; when lovers proveWhat love is, all is over with their love.
You are not meant to see; when lovers proveWhat love is, all is over with their love.
You are not meant to see; when lovers proveWhat love is, all is over with their love.
You are not meant to see; when lovers prove
What love is, all is over with their love.
Guldstad[toStiver].
Guldstad[toStiver].
Guldstad[toStiver].
But if there’s matter for adjustment, prayLet’s hear it.
But if there’s matter for adjustment, prayLet’s hear it.
But if there’s matter for adjustment, prayLet’s hear it.
But if there’s matter for adjustment, pray
Let’s hear it.
Stiver.
Stiver.
Stiver.
I’ve been pondering all dayWhether the thing is proper to disclose,But still the Ayes are balanced by the Noes.
I’ve been pondering all dayWhether the thing is proper to disclose,But still the Ayes are balanced by the Noes.
I’ve been pondering all dayWhether the thing is proper to disclose,But still the Ayes are balanced by the Noes.
I’ve been pondering all day
Whether the thing is proper to disclose,
But still the Ayes are balanced by the Noes.
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
I’ll right you in one sentence. Ever sinceAs plighted lover you were first installed,You’ve felt yourself, if I may say so, galled—
I’ll right you in one sentence. Ever sinceAs plighted lover you were first installed,You’ve felt yourself, if I may say so, galled—
I’ll right you in one sentence. Ever sinceAs plighted lover you were first installed,You’ve felt yourself, if I may say so, galled—
I’ll right you in one sentence. Ever since
As plighted lover you were first installed,
You’ve felt yourself, if I may say so, galled—
Stiver.
Stiver.
Stiver.
And sometimes to the quick.
And sometimes to the quick.
And sometimes to the quick.
And sometimes to the quick.
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
You’ve had to winceBeneath a crushing load of obligationsThat you’d send packing, if good form permitted.That’s what’s the matter.
You’ve had to winceBeneath a crushing load of obligationsThat you’d send packing, if good form permitted.That’s what’s the matter.
You’ve had to winceBeneath a crushing load of obligationsThat you’d send packing, if good form permitted.That’s what’s the matter.
You’ve had to wince
Beneath a crushing load of obligations
That you’d send packing, if good form permitted.
That’s what’s the matter.
Stiver.
Stiver.
Stiver.
Monstrous accusations!My legal debts I’ve honestly acquitted;But other bonds next month are falling due;[ToGuldstad.When a man weds, you see, he gets a wife—
Monstrous accusations!My legal debts I’ve honestly acquitted;But other bonds next month are falling due;[ToGuldstad.When a man weds, you see, he gets a wife—
Monstrous accusations!My legal debts I’ve honestly acquitted;But other bonds next month are falling due;[ToGuldstad.When a man weds, you see, he gets a wife—
Monstrous accusations!
My legal debts I’ve honestly acquitted;
But other bonds next month are falling due;
[ToGuldstad.
When a man weds, you see, he gets a wife—
Falk[triumphant].
Falk[triumphant].
Falk[triumphant].
Now your youth’s heaven once again is blue,There rang an echo from your old song-life!That’s how it is: I read you thro’ and thro’;Wings, wings were all you wanted,—and a knife!
Now your youth’s heaven once again is blue,There rang an echo from your old song-life!That’s how it is: I read you thro’ and thro’;Wings, wings were all you wanted,—and a knife!
Now your youth’s heaven once again is blue,There rang an echo from your old song-life!That’s how it is: I read you thro’ and thro’;Wings, wings were all you wanted,—and a knife!
Now your youth’s heaven once again is blue,
There rang an echo from your old song-life!
That’s how it is: I read you thro’ and thro’;
Wings, wings were all you wanted,—and a knife!
Stiver.
Stiver.
Stiver.
A knife?
A knife?
A knife?
A knife?
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
Yes, Resolution’s knife, to severEach captive bond, and set you free for ever,To soar—
Yes, Resolution’s knife, to severEach captive bond, and set you free for ever,To soar—
Yes, Resolution’s knife, to severEach captive bond, and set you free for ever,To soar—
Yes, Resolution’s knife, to sever
Each captive bond, and set you free for ever,
To soar—
Stiver[angrily].
Stiver[angrily].
Stiver[angrily].
Nay, now you’re insolent beyondEndurance! Me to charge with violationOf law,—me, me with plotting to abscond!It’s libellous, malicious defamation,Insult and calumny—
Nay, now you’re insolent beyondEndurance! Me to charge with violationOf law,—me, me with plotting to abscond!It’s libellous, malicious defamation,Insult and calumny—
Nay, now you’re insolent beyondEndurance! Me to charge with violationOf law,—me, me with plotting to abscond!It’s libellous, malicious defamation,Insult and calumny—
Nay, now you’re insolent beyond
Endurance! Me to charge with violation
Of law,—me, me with plotting to abscond!
It’s libellous, malicious defamation,
Insult and calumny—
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
Are you insane?What is all this about? Explain! Explain!
Are you insane?What is all this about? Explain! Explain!
Are you insane?What is all this about? Explain! Explain!
Are you insane?
What is all this about? Explain! Explain!
Guldstad[laughingly toStiver].
Guldstad[laughingly toStiver].
Guldstad[laughingly toStiver].
Yes, clear your mind of all this balderdash!What do you want?
Yes, clear your mind of all this balderdash!What do you want?
Yes, clear your mind of all this balderdash!What do you want?
Yes, clear your mind of all this balderdash!
What do you want?
Stiver[pulling himself together].
Stiver[pulling himself together].
Stiver[pulling himself together].
A trifling loan in cash.
A trifling loan in cash.
A trifling loan in cash.
A trifling loan in cash.
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
A loan!
A loan!
A loan!
A loan!
Stiver[hurriedly toGuldstad].
Stiver[hurriedly toGuldstad].
Stiver[hurriedly toGuldstad].
That is, I mean to say, you know,A voucher for a ten pound note, or so.
That is, I mean to say, you know,A voucher for a ten pound note, or so.
That is, I mean to say, you know,A voucher for a ten pound note, or so.
That is, I mean to say, you know,
A voucher for a ten pound note, or so.
Miss Jay[toLindandAnna].
Miss Jay[toLindandAnna].
Miss Jay[toLindandAnna].
I wish you joy! How lovely, how delicious!
I wish you joy! How lovely, how delicious!
I wish you joy! How lovely, how delicious!
I wish you joy! How lovely, how delicious!
Guldstad[going up to the ladies].
Guldstad[going up to the ladies].
Guldstad[going up to the ladies].
Pray what has happened?[To himself.]Â Â Â This was unpropitious.
Pray what has happened?[To himself.]Â Â Â This was unpropitious.
Pray what has happened?[To himself.]Â Â Â This was unpropitious.
Pray what has happened?
[To himself.]Â Â Â This was unpropitious.
Falk[throws his arms aboutStiver’sneck].
Falk[throws his arms aboutStiver’sneck].
Falk[throws his arms aboutStiver’sneck].
Hurrah! the trumpet’s dulcet notes proclaimA brother born to you in Amor’s name![Drags him to the others.
Hurrah! the trumpet’s dulcet notes proclaimA brother born to you in Amor’s name![Drags him to the others.
Hurrah! the trumpet’s dulcet notes proclaimA brother born to you in Amor’s name![Drags him to the others.
Hurrah! the trumpet’s dulcet notes proclaim
A brother born to you in Amor’s name!
[Drags him to the others.
Miss Jay[to the gentlemen].
Miss Jay[to the gentlemen].
Miss Jay[to the gentlemen].
Think! Lind and Anna—think!—have plighted hearts,Affianced lovers!
Think! Lind and Anna—think!—have plighted hearts,Affianced lovers!
Think! Lind and Anna—think!—have plighted hearts,Affianced lovers!
Think! Lind and Anna—think!—have plighted hearts,
Affianced lovers!
Mrs. Halm[with tears of emotion].
Mrs. Halm[with tears of emotion].
Mrs. Halm[with tears of emotion].
’Tis the eighth in orderWho well-provided from this house departs;[ToFalk.Seven nieces wedded—always with a boarder—[Is overcome; presses her handkerchief to her eyes.
’Tis the eighth in orderWho well-provided from this house departs;[ToFalk.Seven nieces wedded—always with a boarder—[Is overcome; presses her handkerchief to her eyes.
’Tis the eighth in orderWho well-provided from this house departs;[ToFalk.Seven nieces wedded—always with a boarder—[Is overcome; presses her handkerchief to her eyes.
’Tis the eighth in order
Who well-provided from this house departs;
[ToFalk.
Seven nieces wedded—always with a boarder—
[Is overcome; presses her handkerchief to her eyes.
Miss Jay[toAnna].
Miss Jay[toAnna].
Miss Jay[toAnna].
Well, there will come a flood of gratulation![Caresses her with emotion.
Well, there will come a flood of gratulation![Caresses her with emotion.
Well, there will come a flood of gratulation![Caresses her with emotion.
Well, there will come a flood of gratulation!
[Caresses her with emotion.
Lind[seizingFalk’shand].
Lind[seizingFalk’shand].
Lind[seizingFalk’shand].
My friend, I walk in rapt intoxication!
My friend, I walk in rapt intoxication!
My friend, I walk in rapt intoxication!
My friend, I walk in rapt intoxication!
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
Hold! As a plighted man you are a memberOf Rapture’s Temperance-association.Observe its rules;—no orgies here, remember![Turning toGuldstadsympathetically.Well, my good sir!
Hold! As a plighted man you are a memberOf Rapture’s Temperance-association.Observe its rules;—no orgies here, remember![Turning toGuldstadsympathetically.Well, my good sir!
Hold! As a plighted man you are a memberOf Rapture’s Temperance-association.Observe its rules;—no orgies here, remember![Turning toGuldstadsympathetically.Well, my good sir!
Hold! As a plighted man you are a member
Of Rapture’s Temperance-association.
Observe its rules;—no orgies here, remember!
[Turning toGuldstadsympathetically.
Well, my good sir!
Guldstad[beaming with pleasure].
Guldstad[beaming with pleasure].
Guldstad[beaming with pleasure].
I think this promisesAll happiness for both.
I think this promisesAll happiness for both.
I think this promisesAll happiness for both.
I think this promises
All happiness for both.
Falk[staring at him].
Falk[staring at him].
Falk[staring at him].
You seem to standThe shock with exemplary self-command.That’s well.
You seem to standThe shock with exemplary self-command.That’s well.
You seem to standThe shock with exemplary self-command.That’s well.
You seem to stand
The shock with exemplary self-command.
That’s well.
Guldstad.
Guldstad.
Guldstad.
What do you mean, sir?
What do you mean, sir?
What do you mean, sir?
What do you mean, sir?
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
Only this;That inasmuch as you appeared to feedFond expectations of your own—
Only this;That inasmuch as you appeared to feedFond expectations of your own—
Only this;That inasmuch as you appeared to feedFond expectations of your own—
Only this;
That inasmuch as you appeared to feed
Fond expectations of your own—
Guldstad.
Guldstad.
Guldstad.
Indeed?
Indeed?
Indeed?
Indeed?
Falk.
Falk.
Falk.
At any rate, you were upon the scent.You named Miss Halm; you stood upon this spotAnd asked me—
At any rate, you were upon the scent.You named Miss Halm; you stood upon this spotAnd asked me—
At any rate, you were upon the scent.You named Miss Halm; you stood upon this spotAnd asked me—
At any rate, you were upon the scent.
You named Miss Halm; you stood upon this spot
And asked me—