STRAWMAN.
Four tender blades
We have besides.
MRS. HALM.
Ah, really?
STRAWMAN.
Three of whom
Are still too infantine to take to heart
A loving father's absence, when I come
To town for sessions.
MISS JAY [to MRS. HALM, bidding farewell].
Now I must depart.
MRS. HALM.
O, it is still so early!
MISS JAY.
I must fly
To town and spread the news. The Storms, I know,
Go late to rest, they will be up; and oh!
How glad the aunts will be! Now, dear, put by
Your shyness; for to-morrow a spring-tide
Of callers will flow in from every side!
MRS. HALM.
Well, then, good-night
[To the others.
Now friends, what would you say
To drinking tea?
[To MRS. STRAWMAN.
Pray, madam, lead the way.
[MRS. HALM, STRAWMAN, his wife and children, with
GULDSTAD, LIND, and ANNA go into the house.
MISS JAY [taking STIVER's arm].
Now let's be tender! Look how softly floats
Queen Luna on her throne o'er lawn and lea!—
Well, but you are not looking!
STIVER [crossly].
Yes, I see;
I'm thinking of the promissory notes.