Guardian: High spirits, high spirits! I never
saw boys better behaved or more gentle or with
more sweetness of speech. I am thinking there is
not one among them but will earn the name of
Honey-mouth.
Servant: Have it your own way. But is it a
natural thing, I am asking, for the finger nails to
make great growth in one day?
Guardian: Stop, stop, be quiet. Here now are
the Dowager Messengers. (Two old ladies in
travelling costume appear; bowing low to them.)
You are welcome for the sake of her that sent you,
and for your own sakes.
1st Dowager Messenger: We are come from the
Court of the Godmother Queen, for news of the
Princes now in your charge;
She hopes they have manners, are minded well,
and never let run at large;
For she never has yet got over the fret, of their
five little cousins were swept away.
Guardian: Let your mind be at ease, for you'll
be well pleased with the youngsters you're going
to see to-day.
They're learning the laws to speak and to pause—
may be orators then, or Parliament men.
2nd Dowager Messenger: Are they shielded from
harm?
Guardian: