Chapter 31

gentlemen looking on_.

1_st Gentleman_. Henry, what dark-haired queen is that? She moves As if her body were instinct with thought, Moulded to motion by the music's waves, As floats the swan upon the swelling lake; Or as in dreams one sees an angel move, Sweeping on slow wings through the buoyant air, Then folding them, and turning on his track.

2_nd_. You seem inspired; nor can I wonder at it; She is a glorious woman; and such eyes! Think--to be loved by such a woman now!

1_st_. You have seen her, then, before: what is her name?

2_nd_. I saw her once; but could not learn her name.

3_rd_. She is the wife of an Italian count, Who for some cause, political I think, Took refuge in this country. His estates The Church has eaten up, as I have heard: Mephisto says the Church has a good stomach.

2_nd_. How do they live?

3_rd_. Poorly, I should suppose; For she gives Lady Gertrude music-lessons: That's how they know her.--Ah, you should hear her sing!

2_nd_. If she sings as she looks or as she dances, It were as well for me I did not hear.

3_rd_. If Count Lamballa followed Lady Seaford To heaven, I know who'd follow her on earth.