(Nancy holds hand mirror before Lady H.)
[No. 2.]
Nan. Every heart with love inflaming,
You the Queen's gay court adorn,
Tho' from all a tribute claiming,
Think not love alone to scorn.
Pastimes for your pleasure framing,
We all labor night and day,
Sorrow still your soul is weighing,
All your thoughts to sadness bend,
If I fail in grief allaying,
In its spring your life will end.
Lady H. On my heart 'tis preying, (she sits up)
Love, wealth, fame, not weighing,
In its spring time my life will end.
There's naught that charm to life can lend.
(Lady H. lies back languidly.)
Footman (enters, speaks). Sir Tristan of Mickleford, Member of the House of Lords, Knight honored—
Lady H. (interrupting). We'll spare you the rest.
(Enter Sir Tristan with flowers. Bows to the ladies, presents flowers, which Lady H. looks at carelessly and drops on table beside her. He is an elderly beau very precise in manner. A few of the ladies return, stealing on the stage to watch the scene, remaining at rear.)
[No. 3.]
Tristan (sings). Lovely cousin, I implore you,
Hear my suit and do not chaff.
I would say that I adore you—