Page:Dramas 3.pdf/488

486

Who can it be, making such a noise at this untimely hour? (In a loud voice.) What do you want at this late hour? and who are you?

I am a storm-beaten, benighted traveller, and shelter for the night is what I want, good dame; open your door and receive me.

You travel late for a lone person. (Opens the door.)

Come in, then, and I will do the best I can for you. The rain must have fallen in torrents, methinks, to put you in this condition.

Yes, I have had water enough, good dame; let me dry myself by the fire, if there be one still burning in the house.

Preserve me! is the Mermaid gone a wreck?