Part 22 (1/2)

The thought's a sudden one,--that will excuse Defect in your appointments. A plain dress,-- So 'tis of white,--will do.

_Helen_. I'll dress in black.

I'll quit the castle.

_Wal_. That you shall not do.

Its doors are guarded by my lord's domestics, Its avenues--its grounds. What you must do, Do with a good grace! In an hour, or less, Your father will be here. Make up your mind To take with thankfulness the man he gives you.

Now, [Aside] if they find not out how beat their hearts, I have no skill, not I, in feeling pulses.

[Goes out.]

_Helen_. Why, cousin Modus! What! will you stand by And see me forced to marry? Cousin Modus!

Have you not got a tongue? Have you not eyes?

Do you not see I'm very--very ill, And not a chair in all the corridor?

_Mod_. I'll find one in the study.

_Helen_. Hang the study!

_Mod_. My room's at hand. I'll fetch one thence.

_Helen_. You shan't I'd faint ere you came back!

_Mod_. What shall I do?

_Helen_. Why don't you offer to support me? Well?

Give me your arm--be quick! [MODUS offers his arm.]

Is that the way To help a lady when she's like to faint?

I'll drop unless you catch me! [MODUS supports her.]

That will do.

I'm better now--[MODUS offers to leave her] don't leave me! Is one well Because one's better? Hold my hand. Keep so.

I'll soon recover so you move not. Loves he--

[Aside.]

Which I'll be sworn he does, he'll own it now.

Well, cousin Modus?

_Mod_. Well, sweet cousin!

_Helen_. Well?

You heard what Master Walter said?

_Mod_. I did.

_Helen_. And would you have me marry? Can't you speak?

Say yes or no.

_Mod_. No, cousin!

_Helen_. Bravely said!