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Poor though it be, is passing to the board;
Shall we not follow it? Although, in verity,
I am ashamed that such a poor reception
Is offered to such friends.

MARIAN.

Dear Sir, they will forgive what things are lacking,

The heart's kind cheer not being of the number.

DUNARDEN (to Alice).

Had I had timely notice of your coming,

I had sent messengers for thirty miles,
Cross moor and mountain, to invite our neighbours;
And tables had been cover'd in this hall,
Round which we should have held a merry feast.
And this same wedding, too, detains the clan:
So that our wings are clipt on every side.

ALICE.

Your courtesy is great: but surely, Sir,

A merry wedding well may make amends
For a lost feast, ev'n in Dunarden hall.

DUNARDEN.

And so it shall, fair Alice.—Pardon me

That I should be so bold to name you thus!
At fall of eve we'll join their merriment;
And thou shalt be my partner in the dance.
(Taking her hand gallantly.)
I'll have thee all and solely to myself;