Page:Gilbert Original Plays.djvu/36

30 On his (or her) face—as the case may be.
 * Sel. That form is not in vogue in fairy land;

Still, as it holds on earth, no doubt 'twill have Far greater weight with you poor sons of earth. Than any formula we could impose. Phy. Its weight is overpowering.

Sel. But stay! We would not wrest this homage from you, sir ; Or give it willingly, or not at all.
 * Eth. Most willingly, fair maid, we give it you.

Sel. Good! Then proceed.

Eth. There! does it not convey A pleasant sense of influence?
 * Sel. It does.

Some earthly forms seem rational enough. Why Ethais, what ails thee?

Eth. Why, I'm faint From loss of blood. My wound—here, take this scarf. And bind it round my arm—so—have a care! There, that will do till I return to earth; Then, Lutin, who's a fairly skillful leech, Shall doctor it.
 * Sel. (amazed). Didst thou say Lutin?
 * Eth. Yes,

He is my squire—a poor, half-witted churl,

Who shudders at the rustling of a leaf;