University of Virginia Library

Scene Fourth.

—The Banks of a River.
Music—Enter Strongback, carrying an enormous pile of treasure of every description on his shoulders, followed by Fortunio and his other Servants.
For.
Run, Strongback; we're pursued—'tis my belief.

Fine.
Yes, master, I can hear them call “Stop thief.”

For.
Now is the time your aerial coach to try.

Light.
It's built—we've only got to make it fly!

For.
A trifle merely—yet I almost doubt
If we can wait whilst that is brought about.

Mar.
Here comes the Emperor with all his guard!

For.
What's to be done?

Boist.
I'll breathe a little hard;
And they'll be so completely blown,—I doubt
Their running an inch further on this route.

For.
Dear friend, to you we'll owe our preservation,
And wait your coming at the railway station!

Music—Exeunt Fortunio and all but Boisterer.
Enter Emperor and Guards.
Emp.
Upon them!—charge!
(Boisterer blows, and they are all whirled off stage)
Oh, here's a precious breeze!

(as he goes)
Boist.
That is the “puff direct,” sir, if you please.

(Exit)