University of Virginia Library

Scene Fifth.

—The Golden Pinery.
Pine.
In Oberon's high Court I've been to day,
Arrest of judgment in this cause to pray.
He has most carefully looked through the pleadings
And I his order bring to stay proceedings.
Against this pair you have no ground for action,
Excessive damages in satisfaction,
You have already in one case obtained,
And your black client's plea can't be sustained
Of breach of promise—e'en if undisputed,
For this young Prince she clearly is non-suited.

Cara.
I say of justice this is a denial!

Pine.
Then move this higher Court for a new trial.

Flor.
By all means. I'm a party to this suit—
Pray grant a rule and make it absolute;
And during Christmas Term each night you sit,
Let's have a well-packed jury in the pit;
Meanwhile, of course, we'll take, if you'll allow,
A special verdict in our favour now.

Finale.
Air—“The Gipsy Tent.”
Desi.
Your Christmas game-laws
Were never severe—
Hold me not cheap,
Because I've been a deer.

Felix.
Timid as any fawn,
In any shape,
From shafts by censure drawn,
Let her escape.

Flor.
Though shallows and flats may have
Perill'd our bark,
Let her, for show, pray have
Letters of mark!
Don't let her stranded be,
Here in the Strand—
Happily landed see
Our “Happy Land!”

(music)
Tableau.