  by Charles Mackay. “Hush! Joanna! I’ll forgive you! But it’s certain that the coffee wasn’t strong! Own your error! Why so stubborn in the wrong?” “You’ll forgive me? Sir, I hate you! You have used me like a churl. Have my senses ceased to guide me? Do you think I am a girl?” “Oh no! You’re a girl no longer But a woman, formed to please. And it’s time you should abandon Childish follies, such as these.” If I’m old--you’re older still. I’ll no longer be your victim And the creature of your will.” “But, Joanna; why this bother? It might happen I was wrong. But if common sense inspire me, Still that coffee wasn’t strong.” “Common sense? You never had it! Oh, that ever I was born To be wedded to a monster That repays my love with scorn.” “Well, Joanna, we’ll not quarrel; What’s the use of bitter strife? But I’m sorry I am married. I was mad--to take a wife.” “Mad, indeed! I’m glad you know it. But if law can break this chain I’ll be tied to you no longer-- In this misery and pain.” “Hush, Joanna! Shall the servants Hear you argue, ever wrong? Can you not have done with folly? Own the coffee was not strong.” Trifling with my woman’s heart. But I loath you and detest you! Villain! monster! let us part!” **** Long this foolish quarrel lasted Till Joanna, half afraid, That her empire was in peril, Summoned never failing aid. Summoned tears in copious torrents, Tears and sobs, and piteous sighs; Well she knew the potent practice-- The artillery of the eyes. And it chanced as she imagined-- Beautiful in grief was she. Beautiful to best advantage;-- And a tender heart had he. Kneeling at her side he soothed her: “Dear Joanna! I was wrong. Never more I’ll contradict you-- But, oh, make my coffee strong!” 1. Scene. Breakfast-room; man and woman at opposite ends of table, side face to audience--she busy cutting her meat and looking down at her plate; he looking at her, cup poised in right hand, on the way toward his mouth. 2. Lady has risen, and angrily faces her husband. 3. Man has risen; stands in front of table, looking toward his wife. 4. Joanna, again sitting, weeps. 5. Husband kneeling in front of her. |
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