Martha; or, The Fair at Richmond

by Unknown

Tris. You'd degrade yourself like this?

Lady H. Just amuse myself, that's all.
Hurry Nancy, we must run,
Now at last I'll have some fun!
Martha (curtseys), Nancy (curtseys) and—old John!

(Tosses her kerchief over Tristan's head, blinding him. Tris. is bewildered, kerchief hanging over one eye.)

Tris. Who is John? What old John?

Lady H. Who but you?
You are old John!

Tris. I? I old John?
No that's too much.

(Snatches off kerchief and throws it down.)

Lady H. Sir Tristan, whene'er the fair we woo, sir,
With caprices we comply,
Else we see tears fall in showers,
See, dear John, these charming flowers—

(Gives him flowers from his own nosegay. He kisses her hand, puts flowers in coat.)

Lady H. Take them, nor my prayer deny!
(lifts skirt at side and dances a step).
With the village people dancing,
Nancy's partner you're enroll'd.