ACIS. You cant. It's broken. Look here [_pointing to Strephon, who has
remained in his seal without looking round at the birth, wrapped up in
his sorrow_]! Look at this poor fellow!
THE NEWLY BORN. What is the matter with him?
ACIS. When he was born he chose a girl two years old for his sweetheart.
He is two years old now himself; and already his heart is broken because
she is four. That means that she has grown up like this Ancient here,
and has left him. If you choose me, we shall have only a year's
happiness before I break your heart by growing up. Better choose the
youngest you can find.
THE NEWLY BORN. I will not choose anyone but you. You must not grow up.
We will love one another for ever. [_They all laugh_]. What are you
laughing at?
THE SHE-ANCIENT. Listen, child--
THE NEWLY BORN. Do not come near me, you dreadful old creature. You
frighten me.
ACIS. Just give her another moment. She is not quite reasonable yet.
What can you expect from a child less than five minutes old?
THE NEWLY BORN. I think I feel a little more reasonable now.
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