Original Plays, Second Series

by W. S. Gilbert

Hale, sound, and whole, with money in my purse,

And a good-sounding title to my name,

So give me joy of it. Why, how is this?

Hast thou no welcome for me, cousin Gretchen?

Gret. (with an effort). Ay, welcome home, dear Gottfried! welcome home!

Gott. But wherefore dost thou sigh?

Gret.Nay, heed me not,

But tell me of thyself—the country side

Rings with the tidings of thy valour.

Gott.Bah!