(Taking off his hat) Would
it inconvenience you if I rested here for a few minutes?
GERVASE. Not a bit. It's a jolly place to rest at, isn't it? Have you
come far this morning?
SUSAN. Three or four miles--a mere nothing on a morning like this.
Besides, what does the great William say?
GERVASE. I don't think I know him. What does he say?
SUSAN. A merry heart goes all the way.
GERVASE. Oh, Shakespeare, yes.
SUSAN. And why, you ask, am I merry?
GERVASE. Well, I didn't, but I was just going to. Why are you merry?
SUSAN. Can you not guess? What does the great Ralph say?
GERVASE (trying hard). The great Ralph. . . . No, you've got me there.
I'm sure I don't know him. Well, what does he say?
SUSAN. Give me health and a day, and I will make the pomp of Empires
ridiculous.
GERVASE. Emerson, of course. Silly of me.
SUSAN. So you see, sir--I am well, the day is well, all is well.
GERVASE. Sir, I congratulate you. In the words of the great Percy--(to
himself) that's got him.
SUSAN (at a loss). The--er--great Percy?
GERVASE. Hail to thee, blithe spirit!
SUSAN (eagerly). I take you, I take you! Shelley! Ah, there's a poet,
Mr.--er--I don't think I quite caught your name.
GERVASE.
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