SCENE I.Moonlight: a field or small court behind the inn, and every thing covered with snow.
EnterFiddler, Piper, andHurdy-Gurdy-Man,each with his instrument.
FIDDLER.
How devilish cold 'tis! 'tis well we are fortified with roast beef and brandy, friend: didn't I tell you we should want it all. (To Piper.)
PIPER.
Very true: but you would not keep a lady of family and condition waiting till we cramm'd ourselves, Maister John.
HURDY-GURDY-MAN.
Dat would be impolite in verite.
FIDDLER.
Damn me! if I would play with an empty stomach to the best lady in Christendom. What the devil makes her fancy that our music will sound better in this here cold field than within doors in such a night as this? I likes to be snug myself, and I never likes to put any one to hardship.
