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114 |
IDEAL HOME LIFE |
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I'd never languish for riches or power,
I'd never sigh to see slaves at my feet,
I'd be a butterfly, born in a bower,
Kissing all buds that are pretty and sweet.
Those who have wealth must be watchful and wary,
Power, alas, nought but poverty brings;
I'd be a butterfly, sportive and airy,
Rock'd in a rose when the nightingale sings.
(Enter Woodman's Wife, very fashionably dressed.)
Woodman's Wife.—Here's a pretty to-do, just because you won't tell people where you got your riches. They think you're not honest, and next you'll be taken up for having goods in your possession you can't account for.
Woodman (wearily).—My dear, I told you that if I mentioned our benefactor the riches would vanish. I'm sure I wish they would. Say another word and they shall,
(Enter the Children, quarreling over some toy.)
Boy.—I tell you you can't have it; it's mine. I bought it with my own money.
Girl.—But I saw it first and said I was going to buy it. It's too bad.
Woodman's Wife.—Do leave off quarreling, children.
Woodman.—Yes, look at them. Two happier, more contented little creatures never lived while we were poor; and as for you, my dear, you never found fault with me then. But (with an air of determination) I'll put an end to it. (He takes the egg out of his pocket and breaks it; in an instant the Wood Sprite runs on to the stage gaily.)
Wood Sprite.—You see, I was right. Well, you've tried riches, and now you'll be contented because you have found out that wealth does not always bring happiness. Let us have a dance.
(He flourishes his swordy the piano strikes up a Sir Roger de Coverley [Virginia Reel]. The Woodman and his Wife and Two Children join him and the play finishes with the good old country dance.)
(Curtain falls.) |
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