Knickerbocker enters cautiously.
Knickerbocker.
Zooks! I'm venturing into a tiger's den in quest of a lamb. All's clear, however; and, could I but pop on little Alice, how we would bill and coo. She comes! lie still, my fluttering heart.
Enter Alice.[47]
Alice.
[Without observing Knickerbocker.] There, there, go to sleep. Ah! Knickerbocker, how I love you, [spite of all the strange ways that you pursue.][48]
Knickerbocker.
[Aside.] Sensible, susceptible soul! [But merit ever meets its recompense.][49]
Alice.
No wonder I am fascinated; [his figure is so elegant, and then his education! I never see him, but I am ready to jump into his loving arms. [Turning, she is caught in the embrace of Knickerbocker.][50]