Forgive her: she is not used to quality, And is half crazed with being much alone. How did you know I had taken a young wolf? Fine wholesome food, though maybe somewhat strong. [_The SECOND MERCHANT sits down by the fire and begins rubbing his hands. The FIRST MERCHANT stands looking at the quicken bough on the chair._ FIRST MERCHANT. I would rest here: the night is somewhat chilly, And my feet footsore going up and down From land to land and nation unto nation: The fire burns dimly; feed it with this bough. [_SHEMUS throws the bough into the fire. The FIRST MERCHANT sits down on the chair. The MERCHANTS’ chairs are on each side of the fire. The table is between them. Each lays his bag before him on the table. The night has closed in somewhat, and the main light comes from the fire._ MAIRE. What have you in the bags? SHEMUS. Don’t mind her, sir: Women grow curious and feather-thoughted Through being in each other’s company More than is good for them. FIRST MERCHANT. Our bags are full Of golden pieces to buy merchandise. [_They pour gold pieces on to the table out of their bags. It is covered with the gold pieces. They shine in the firelight. MAIRE goes to the door of pantry, and watches the MERCHANTS, muttering to herself._ TEIG. These are great gentlemen. FIRST MERCHANT. [_Taking a stone bottle out of his bag._] Come to the fire, Here is the headiest wine you ever tasted. SECOND MERCHANT. Wine that can hush asleep the petty war Of good and evil, and awake instead A scented flame flickering above that peace The bird of prey knows well in his deep heart. SHEMUS. [_Bringing drinking-cups._] I do not understand you, but your wine Sets me athirst: its praise made your eyes lighten. I am thirsting for it. FIRST MERCHANT. Ay, come drink and drink, I bless all mortals who drink long and deep. My curse upon the salt-strewn road of monks. [_TEIG and SHEMUS sit down at the table and drink._] TEIG. You must have seen rare sights and done rare things. FIRST MERCHANT. What think you of the master whom we serve? SHEMUS. I have grown weary of my days in the world Because I do not serve him. FIRST MERCHANT. More of this When we have eaten, for we love right well A merry meal, a warm and leaping fire And easy hearts. SHEMUS. Come, Maire, and cook the wolf. MAIRE. I will not cook for you. SHEMUS. Maire is mad. [_TEIG and SHEMUS stand up and stagger about._ SHEMUS. That wine is the suddenest wine man ever tasted. MAIRE.