* * * * * TRYING IT ON. ["The natural result of a _rapprochement_ between Russia and Italy, even if avowedly platonic in its character, would be to weaken the prestige and moral force of the Triple Alliance."--_The Times_.] _Mr. Bruin loquitur_:-- _Pst!_ Hang it, quite _au mieux!_ Now what am I to do? I must draw her attention, if I'm going to have a chance. She seems so satisfied with those gallants at her side That just now in my direction she will hardly deign a glance. _Pst!_ Darling, just a word! No! Deaf as any post! It is perfectly absurd! _Pst!_ Heeds me not the least, just as though I were the Beast, And she the sovereign Beauty that she deems she is, no doubt. Since she won those burly _beaux_, it appears to be no go, But Bruin's an old Masher, and he knows what he's about. _Pst!_ Darling, look this way! In your pretty little ear I've a word or two to say! The coy Gallic girl I've won. It is really awful fun, For _her_ prejudice was strong as was that of Lady ANNE To the ugly crookback, DICK. But my wooing there was quick. Platonic? Oh! of course. That is always Bruin's plan. A flirtation means no harm, When you wish not to corrupt or betray, but simply charm. Fancy Italian girl won by the swagger twirl Of an Austrian moustache! It is monstrous, nothing less. What _would_ GARIBALDI say? Well, he doesn't live to-day, Or he'd tear her from the arm of her ancient foe, I guess. And that stalwart Teuton too! Do you really think, my girl, he can really care for _you_? Ah! you always were a flirt, Miss ITALIA. You have hurt France's feelings very much. Why, she stood your faithful friend When the hated Austrian yoke bowed your neck. Did you invoke The pompous Prussian then your captivity to end? _Pst!_ Just a moment, dear. I've a word or two to say it were worth your while to hear. Ah! A hasty glance she throws o'er her shoulder. But for those Big, blonde, burly bullies twain, I could win her, I am sure; For my manners all girls praise, and I have such winning ways, And my lips, for kisses made, are for love a lasting lure. _Pst!_ How those two stride on, Without a glance at me! Do they think the game is won? Hrumph! The Bear, although polite, is as pertinacious, quite, As the tactless Teuton pig. I'll yet spoil their little game. Triple Alliance? Fudge! If that girl is a good judge, She will make a third with Me and my latest Gallic "flame." _Pst!_ Come along with me, My dark Italian _belle_! We shall make a lovely Three! [_Left making signs._ * * * * *