Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Heinemann Volume 4).djvu/206

 I'll dismount! Like your slave, I will lead your palfrey!

[Hands her his riding-whip, and dismounts.

There now, my rosebud, you exquisite flower! Here I'll go trudging my way through the sand, Till a sunstroke o'ertakes me and finishes me. I'm young, Anitra; bear that in mind! You mustn't be shocked at my escapades. Frolics and high-jinks are youth's sole criterion! And so, if your intellect weren't so dense, You would see at a glance, oh my fair oleander,— Your lover is frolicsome—ergo, he's young!

Yes, you are young. Have you any more rings?

Am I not? There, grab! I can leap like a buck! Were there vine-leaves around, I would garland my brow. To be sure I am young! Hei, I'm going to dance!

[Dances and sings.

I am a blissful game-cock! Peck me, my little pullet! Hop-sa-sa! Let me trip it;— I am a blissful game-cock!

You are sweating, my prophet; I fear you will melt;— Hand me that heavy bag hung at your belt.

Tender solicitude! Bear the purse ever;— Hearts than can love are content without gold!

[Dances and sings again.