Dialogue following No. 5
| Amandus. |
'Tis six! My time has come at last!
Sweet maiden, would we two had met before;
But 'tis too late — (waving his hand to landscape) — |
| |
So, love and life, adieu! |
| Amanda. |
Oh no! You really mustn't think of it.
For my sake, wait until to-morrow night;
Postpone your plunge, and tell to the reporters
How 'twas Amanda died! |
| |
To me was ever law. On one condition,
I'll do as you desire. |
| Amanda. |
I grant it freely. |
| Amandus. |
'Tis that you do take time — a day or two —
Just to think over it. |
| Amanda. |
Nay! that were vain! (Going.) |
| |
Stranger, farewell! I seek my watery bed! |
| Amandus. |
Do not! Please, do not! (He brings her back.) |
| Amanda. |
Tell me truly this (tenderly). |
| |
Would it annoy you greatly if I did? |
Amandus (solemnly). Upon my word, it would!
| Amanda (sweetly). |
Well then, I yield: |
| |
Out of politeness, I'll consent to live. |
Amandus (with effusion). How can I thank you for this courtesy?
| Amanda. |
Support my trembling steps through yonder wood:
We may perhaps discover, on our way,
A quiet, well-conducted hermitage
Where they may take in lodgers; there I'll stop,
And there, in solitude, await my end! |
(He gives her his arm, and they move towards the bridge.)
| Amandus (turning back, as an idea strikes him). |
| |
But think — perchance the hermit may object
To single ladies without references! |
Amanda (tenderly and softly). Wilt thou not be my reference?
| Amandus (solemnly). |
I will! |
(He takes her round the waist, and she lays her head upon his shoulder for
a moment.
Then they go across the bridge together.)
Page modified 3 August 2019
