Part 23 (1/2)

I ne'er saw lips at all till now, dear cousin!

_Helen_. Cousin, I'm well,--you need not hold me now.

Do you not hear? I tell you I am well!

I need your arm no longer--take 't away!

So tight it locks me, 'tis with pain I breathe!

Let me go, cousin! Wherefore do you hold Your face so close to mine? What do you mean?

_Mod_. You've questioned me, and now I'll question you.

_Helen_. What would you learn?

_Mod_. The use of lips.

_Helen_. To speak.

_Mod_. Naught else?

_Helen_. How bold my modest cousin grows!

Why, other use know you?

_Mod_. I do!

_Helen_. Indeed!

You're wondrous wise? And pray what is it?

_Mod_. This! [Attempts to kiss her.]

_Helen_. Soft! my hand thanks you, cousin--for my lips I keep them for a husband!--Nay, stand off!

I'll not be held in manacles again!

Why do you follow me?

_Mod_. I love you, cousin!

_Helen_. O cousin, say you so! That's pa.s.sing strange!

Falls out most crossly--is a dire mishap-- A thing to sigh for, weep for, languish for, And die for!

_Mod_. Die for!

_Helen_, Yes, with laughter, cousin, For, cousin, I love you!

_Mod_. And you'll be mine?

_Helen_. I will.

_Mod_. Your hand upon it.

_Helen_. Hand and heart.

Hie to thy dressing-room, and I'll to mine-- Attire thee for the altar--so will I.