Читать книгу St. Nicholas Book of Plays & Operettas онлайн

12 страница из 35

If what our wisest fairies say be true:

When mortals sleep too soundly in the snow,

The dreamland elves will never let them go.

Crystal. [Touches Betty’s cheek,

then draws her hand away hastily.]

So soft and warm a thing I never felt!

I thought my finger-tips would surely melt!

Queen.

Too light our touch to make them ope their eyes;

But here’s Jack Frost! He’ll give us counsel wise.

Jack Frost. [Entering briskly, and bowing to Queen.]

Good evening, Sister Snow! Well, what’s the news?

Queen.

Dear Jack, I need advice—now don’t refuse!

Little account of mortal ways I keep;

But is this just the way they ought to sleep?

[Points to children.]

Jack.

Indeed it’s not! I’ll rouse the sleepy-heads,

And send them scurrying home to seek their beds!

Queen.

But you’ll not hurt them, Jacky dear?

Jack.Not I!

To wake them with my gentlest nips I’ll try.

[Sings, as he circles around the children,

touching them lightly: Air, “Skye Boat Song.”]

Children awake, I merrily sing!

Slumber away must fly;

Chill is my touch, and sharp is my sting—