Page:Gilbert Original Plays.djvu/30

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Our power, I think, is limited to two?
Lei. Unfortunately.
Sel. Yes—more might be done
Had each of us a pupil to herself.
Now then to summon them. But, sisters all,
Show no repugnance to these wretched men;
Remember that, all odious though they be,
They are our guests; in common courtesy
Subdue your natural antipathies;
Be very gentle with them, bear with them,
Be kind, forbearing, tender, pitiful.
Receive them with that gentle sister love,
That forms the essence of our fairyhood;
Let no side-thought of their unholy lives
Intrude itself upon your charity;
Treat them as though they were what they will be
When they have seen how we shall be to them.
What is the form?
Dar. Two roses newly plucked
Should each in turn be cast upon the earth;
Then, as each rose is thrown, pronounce the name
Of him whose mortal self it typifies.
Here are two roses plucked from yonder tree.
Sel. (taking them). Well then, fair rose, I name thee Ethais!—
Go, send thy mortal namesake to our cloud; (throws rose to earth).
'Tis done; conceal yourselves till they appear!