More worthy praise, in summer days,
Than needle, spoon, or pen.
Touch lightly each resounding string,
O Wandering Minstrel, while we sing
Of hearts by fate made desolate
And of the Now and Then.
Waft, waft in slow, sweet cadences
Each fan whose use a maiden’s is.
“Ah!” cried the boys, in concert, as the chorus concluded. “Ah, ah, ah!” But though they were in a teasing mood, they were careful not to disturb the play seriously, and the merry farce came successfully to a finish.
Then the boys’ merriment broke loose. They swarmed up on to the stage; they kissed the girls who were their sisters or cousins, and shook hands vigorously with those who were not. They greeted Uncle Ned and Aunt Molly effusively; for was it not owing to them that this joyful treat was brought about? Indeed, you never saw such gay, irrepressible spirits as those Middleton guests were.