Pin. Rather a long speech. Can’t I shorten it a little?
Nig. No, no—every word is of value. She will reply “Indeed it does”—then in the most pathetic tones you can command, you must add: “For my own part, I feel its influence so strongly here”—placing the hand you have at liberty on your heart—“that I could live for ever thus.”
Pin. Meaning in that attitude?
Nig. No, no, with your heart full of the passionate feelings you are to experience at that moment.
Pin. Ah, that’s speaking allegorically! Well?
Nig. Of course she will make no reply. Then you must be affected—seem to dry away a tear—and add with fervour, “till this moment I have been a miserable man.” Let your voice falter on the word miserable.
Pin. (In a tremulous tone.) Miserable!
Nig. That’s it; then continue: “’Tis in your power to make me the happiest being on earth! Will you be mine? dearest angel, will you be mine? Say yes, and I am blessed indeed; but reject me, and instant death shall be my portion!” Then fall at her feet, sob audibly, and hide your face in her lap!
Pin. Lord! I could never do all that—I might get as far as “Will you be mine?” but even then I think I should rush out of the house without waiting for the answer. And am I to sob and fall on my knees? I could never do it, bless you—without I first took a few bumpers of spirits and water. Pray oblige me by writing the speech down for me. I’ll learn it by heart, and I wont wait for an autumn evening, but take the first favorable opportunity, eh? even if it’s to-night, eh?