FALK. Yes, Resolution’s knife, to sever Each captive bond, and set you free for ever, To soar— STIVER [_angrily_]. Nay, now you’re insolent beyond Endurance! Me to charge with violation Of law,—me, me with plotting to abscond! It’s libellous, malicious defamation, Insult and calumny— FALK. Are you insane? What is all this about? Explain! Explain! GULDSTAD [_laughingly to_ STIVER]. Yes, clear your mind of all this balderdash! What do you want? STIVER [_pulling himself together_]. A trifling loan in cash. FALK. A loan! STIVER [_hurriedly to_ GULDSTAD]. That is, I mean to say, you know, A voucher for a ten pound note, or so. MISS JAY [_to_ LIND _and_ ANNA]. I wish you joy! How lovely, how delicious! GULDSTAD [_going up to the ladies_]. Pray what has happened? [_To himself_.] This was unpropitious. FALK [_throws his arms about_ STIVER’S _neck_]. Hurrah! the trumpet’s dulcet notes proclaim A brother born to you in Amor’s name! [_Drags him to the others._ MISS JAY [_to the gentlemen_]. Think! Lind and Anna—think!—have plighted hearts, Affianced lovers! MRS. HALM [_with tears of emotion_]. ’Tis the eighth in order Who well-provided from this house departs; [_To_ FALK. Seven nieces wedded—always with a boarder— [_Is overcome; presses her handkerchief to her eyes._ MISS JAY [_to_ ANNA]. Well, there will come a flood of gratulation! [_Caresses her with emotion_. LIND [_seizing_ FALK’S _hand_]. My friend, I walk in rapt intoxication! FALK. Hold! As a plighted man you are a member Of Rapture’s Temperance-association. Observe its rules;—no orgies here, remember! [_Turning to_ GULDSTAD _sympathetically._ Well, my good sir! GULDSTAD [_beaming with pleasure_]. I think this promises All happiness for both. FALK [_staring at him_]. You seem to stand The shock with exemplary self-command. That’s well. GULDSTAD.