BARBARA
. . . Michael.
PIPER
So.—'Tis a world of wonders, by my faith!—
What is the fairest thing you see but—
BARBARA
Michael.
PIPER
And is he comely as a man should be?
And strong?—And wears good promise in his eyes,
And keeps it with his heart and with his hands?
[She nods like a child]
And would you fear to go with him?—
BARBARA
No, no!
PIPER
Then reach to him that little hand of yours.
[MICHAEL, wonder-struck, runs to the jar, pours water upon his hand, rubs it off with haste, and falls on his knees before her, taking her hand fearfully.
BARBARA [timidly] And can he talk?—
PIPER
Yes, yes.—The maid's bewildered.
Fear nothing. Thou'rt so dumb, man!—Yes, yes, yes.
Only he kneels; he cannot yet believe.
Speak roundly to him.—Will you go with him?
He will be gentler to you than a father:
He would be brothers five, and dearest friend,
And sweetheart,—ay, and knight and serving-man!
BARBARA
Yes, yes, I know he will. And can he talk, too?