Plun. It is the voice of love.
(Lady H. returns in peasant costume. She goes up to the groups of farmers and begins to arrange them in the old order. Speaks.)
Lady H. Arrange everything just as it was before. Bring the big chair for the sheriff. Don't look at Lionel. Pretend to be all occupied with the business of the day.
Nan. (looking off). Here he comes, with his sad and gentle look. Sing to him, my lady.
(Music begins with Nancy's speech. Lady H. sings.)
[No. 20.]
Lady H. Now the April day returning
Girds the earth with living green;
As the moon shines clearer, fairer,
Spring's new loveliness is seen.
Laughing flowers that gem the meadows,
With the stars in beauty vie,
While the nightingale with singing,
Tells his love to earth and sky.
Lio. Heaven! Martha's singing!
Lady H. (approaches him timidly). See, 'tis Martha.
Cho. See, he knows her! Sadly, but mildly
Meets her glances
And our advances.