Nan. (sings). Gay of heart, I have not known how to weep,
How to be sorry and wan;
Vigil to keep.
Yet alas, sighs are my portion and pain,
Tears that flow ever in vain,
Hindering sleep.
There's a voice speaks in my heart night and day,
What is the word soft it would say?
Ah, voice of love so true and deep,
Ah, soul of faith my answer keep.
Memory still calls one face to my heart,
O light of my life forever thou art;
O voice of love so true and deep,
Face so dear, light of my heart
Forever thou art.
(She turns to the others who gather round her.)
Nan. Hunters fair, now beware,
Lest you fall into a snare.
Haste away, don't delay,
Lest you lose your pretty prey.
Love's a sprite soon takes flight,
Chance and change are his delight;
Use your eyes, win the prize,
Ere too soon he flies.
Love's a hunter, too, they say,
Draws his bow, alackaday!
Hit, we're fain to bear the pain,
Flight is vain.
Chorus. Yes, Cupid blind,
Thy darts are swifter far than wind.
(At end of chorus Plunket re-enters from the inn.)
Plunket. Halloo! There seems to be good game afoot here. I'll see if I have any luck at the chase myself! (Walks towards the ladies.)
Nan. (looking around). Where can Lady Harriet be? She seems to avoid society more than ever. She is very unhappy, and has been so ever since—(addresses Plunket) My good man, can you tell me—(stops in agitation)
Plun. What, Betsy Ann! You? In these togs!
Nan. (distantly). Well, my good man, what is it?
Plun. I am not your good man! But you are my bad maid! Just you wait! I'll make you pay for all the trouble you've given me. What are you doing here in this masquerade?