Gaspard.
Unpitying girl! I scarcely can believe
You'd show such cruelty on Christmas-eve.
I'll hang no stocking ere I rest to-night;
If filled at all 'twould not be filled aright. [Sighs deeply.]
Eloise (archly).
And how would you prefer it filled, Sir Tease?
Gaspard.
How save with one kind smile from Eloise!
Eloise.
My smiles are not so cheaply gained as that.
Be off at once, and stop your silly chat!
'Tis nearly twelve—the hour, as rumor tells,
When Santa Claus begins his goblin spells.
Ah, could I once, with these two favored eyes,
The good Saint at his kindly task surprise,
I'd give—
Gaspard (eagerly).
You'd give—well, what, Eloise?—your heart?