Madam, you quite mistake. In all I spoke I cast no doubt on anything you claim; But I would fain remind you that, from smoke, We cannot logically argue flame. That men are married, and have children, I Have no desire whatever to deny; Nor do I dream of doubting that such things Are in the world as troth and wedding-rings; That billets-doux some tender hands indite And seal with pairs of turtle doves that—fight; That sweethearts swarm in cottage and in hall, That chocolate rewards the wedding-call; That usage and convention have decreed, In every point, how “Lovers” shall proceed:— But, heavens! We’ve majors also by the score, Arsenals heaped with muniments of war, With spurs and howitzers and drums and shot, But what does that permit us to infer? That we have men who dangle swords, but not That they will wield the weapons that they wear. Tho’ all the plain with gleaming tents you crowd, Does that make heroes of the men they shroud? STRAWMAN. Well, all in moderation; I must own, It is not quite conducive to the truth That we should paint the enamourment of youth So bright, as if—ahem—it stood alone. Love-making still a frail foundation is. Only the snuggery of wedded bliss Provides a rock where Love may builded be In unassailable security. MISS JAY. There I entirely differ. In my view, A free accord of lovers, heart with heart, Who hold together, having leave to part, Gives the best warrant that their love is true. ANNA [_warmly_]. O no—Love’s bond when it is fresh and young Is of a stuff more precious and more strong. LIND [_thoughtfully_]. Possibly the ideal flower may blow, Even as that snowdrop,—hidden by the snow. FALK [_with a sudden outburst_]. You fallen Adam! There a heart was cleft With longing for the Eden it has left! LIND. What stuff! MRS. HALM [_offended, to_ FALK, _rising_]. ’Tis not a very friendly act To stir a quarrel where we’ve made a peace. As for your friend’s good fortune, be at ease— SOME LADIES. Nay that’s assured— OTHERS. A very certain fact. MRS. HALM. The cooking-class at school, I must confess, She did not take; but she shall learn it still. MISS JAY. With her own hands she’s trimming her own dress