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AN
- But my grandson has flourished-grown both stout and great,
- and has strapping children all over the country-
PEER
- Now, my dear man, spare us this flow of words;-
- I've something quite different troubling my mind.-
- I've got into rather a ticklish position,
- and am greatly in need of a witness or voucher;-
- that's how you could help me best, father-in-law,
- and I'll find you a trifle to drink my health with.
THE OLD MAN
- You don't say so; can I be of use to his Highness?
- You'll give me a character, then, in return?
PEER
- Most gladly. I'm somewhat hard pressed for cash,
- and must cut down expenses in every direction.
- Now hear what's the matter. No doubt you remember
- that night when I came to the Ronde a-wooing-
THE OLD MAN
- Why, of course, my Lord Prince!
PEER
- Oh, no more of the Prince!
- But no matter. You wanted, by sheer brute force,
- to bias my sight, with a slit in the lens,
