With pen and ink, what seemed good to him,
As passport to this jewelled mirror, pledge
Unworthy of his worship. [Gives a letter and jewel.]

Isen. Nunc Domine dimittis servam tuam!

[Elizabeth looks over the letter and casket, claps her hands and
bursts into childish laughter.]

Why here's my Christmas tree come after Lent--
Espousals? pledges? by our childish love?
Pretty words for folks to think of at the wars,--
And pretty presents come of them! Look, Guta!
A crystal clear, and carven on the reverse
The blessed rood. He told me once--one night,
When we did sit in the garden--What was I saying?

Wal. My fairest Princess, as ambassador,
What shall I answer?

Eliz. Tell him--tell him--God!
Have I grown mad, or a child, within the moment?
The earth has lost her gray sad hue, and blazes
With her old life-light; hark! yon wind's a song--
Those clouds are angels' robes.--That fiery west
Is paved with smiling faces.--I am a woman,
And all things bid me love! my dignity
Is thus to cast my virgin pride away;
And find my strength in weakness.--Busy brain!
Thou keep'st pace with my heart; old lore, old fancies,