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ER
- Now the small-fry are happy!
PEER [struggling with a little imp that has bit himself fast to
- his ear].
- Let go, will you, beast!
THE COURTIER [hitting him across the fingers].
- Gently, you scamp, with a scion of royalty!
PEER
- A rat-hole-!
- [Runs to it.]
THE IMPS
- Be quick, Brother Nixie, and block it!
PEER
- The old one was bad, but the youngsters are worse!
THE IMPS
- Slash him!
PEER
- Oh, would I were small as a mouse!
- [Rushing around.]
THE IMPS [swarming round him].
- Close the ring! Close the ring!
PEER [weeping].
- Would that I were a louse!
- [He falls.]
THE IMPS
- Now into his eyes!
PEER [bu
