Part 53 (2/2)

And then the birds that flitted by Told it the clouds that told the sky, And all the world to song did start With what I sang but to my heart!

Ay, all the world sang back to me A little maiden 'neath a tree Of love, only love!

(Puts down flowers and goes to Lady Maria)

Ah, cousin, do you think he'll be delayed?

Mar. Dear madam, I fear me so.

Car. These s.h.i.+ps! these s.h.i.+ps!

How slow their wings when they do bear our loved ones!

The wandering treasures of our empty arms!

The western waters must have sirens too, And will not let him pa.s.s.

Mar. Indeed they would not, Did they but know what majesty is in him.

Car. (Embracing her) O help me love him, dear. My heart's too small.

(Enter Count Charles)

Char. A message.

Car. Oh! a message! I do not want A message.

Char. The admiral of the port has word The Emperor's s.h.i.+p's delayed.

Car. Why, we'll not weep....

'Tis but a day.... (Goes forward, looking out) To-morrow, then--to-morrow!

(To Lady Maria) Why do you weep? A day's not worth a tear.

See, I can smile!... But my poor flowers will fade.

I plucked them all.... No more grow by the path....

(Suddenly) Cousin, why wear you black?

Mar. (Confused) I--madam--I--

Car. Such sable hues for this so rosy day?

Go dress your body like our happy hearts!

Dost think a coffin comes across the sea?

A coffin--(Shudders) Go! I can not bear this black!

(Exit Lady Maria)

I am displeased. Have I not reason, Charles?

'Twas very wrong of her to dress in black When Maximilian comes. I will go in.

I'm tired--but I am very happy. Ah! (Exit)

<script>