Ere afternoon is out. A heavy thing,
A country fireside in a winter's night,
To one bred in the town,--where winter's said,
For sun of gaiety and sportiveness,
To beggar shining summer.

Clif. I should like
A country winter's night especially!

Julia. You'd sleep by the fire.

Clif. Not I; I'd talk to thee.

Julia. You'd tire of that!

Clif. I'd read to thee.

Julia. And that!

Clif. I'd talk to thee again.

Julia. And sooner tire
Than first you did, and fall asleep at last.
You'd never do to lead a country life.

Clif. You deal too harshly with me! Matchless maid,
As loved instructor brightens dullest wit,
Fear not to undertake the charge of me!
A willing pupil kneels to thee, and lays
His title and his fortune at your feet.