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?
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.
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 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].
Well, I would cry "Amen," and change my plan.
FALK.
What!
GULDSTAD.
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, to LIND].
Yes, you were right; the merchant's really scheming
The ruin of your new-won happiness.
LIND [aside to ANNA].
Now then you see, my doubting was not dreaming;
We'll go this very moment and confess.
[They approach MRS. HALM, who is standing with Miss Jay
by the house.
GULDSTAD [conversing with STIVER].
'Tis a fine evening.