A maid lives there, who often roams this way;
We're here to greet her when she comes to-day.
[Enter Virginia.]
Kelpies—
Virginia, come and play with us awhile;
Come, be our queen and on our revels smile.
Or if we may but help you o'er the stream,
Our labours shall a moment's frolic seem.
Virginia—
Kelpies, too long you've roamed on mischief bent:
Too long you've made the sky your nightly tent.
I've oft been warned to shun your careless way
And from your pranks and revels warned to stay.
I dare not try to cross the swollen tide
Unless some stronger arm is close beside.
[Paolo approaches]
Permit my arm to be this guide and stay:
Pray give me leave to help you on your way.
Virginia—
Kind sir, if you will take me by the hand,
I'll thank you to assist to that far strand.
No—Don't you lift me up—I didn't mean—
Well—If you must—
[Carried over]
How strong your arms have been.
Paolo—
Virginia, did I hear the kelpies say?
Yes, that's my name. What is your own, I pray?
Call me Paolo, and if I may be
Of any further help fair maid to thee,
Allow me to attend you on your way.