SCENE II

[_Witch’s quarters in woods. The Witch and Vertumnus, seated at a table, are talking over their cups of tea._]

WITCH:

I’m the Witch of Hallowe’en, Many curious sights I’ve seen. I’m also a gipsy as you see, I’ll tell your fortune With leaves of tea. You must wear disguise, you understand, If you would win Pomona’s hand. Go as a Ploughman, talk of spring, Roses to her cheeks you’ll bring. As a Fisherman, talk of summer time, Charm her with your song and rhyme. A Reaper has enchanting ways When he sings of autumn days. As Old Woman Winter in ice and snow, You’ll interest her, I’m sure it’s so. When you have enchanted her, then arise, You can safely throw off your last disguise.

VERTUMNUS:

Such fortunes in tea leaves we’ve seen, I’ll cry. “Hurrah for Hallowe’en; Hurrah! hurrah! for your time and trouble, May your kettle always boil and bubble.”

WITCH:

Vertumnus, now if you are wise, You’ll not forget to wear disguise.

VERTUMNUS:

In disguise I’ll journey, you understand, To seek again Pomona’s hand.