If we're weak enough to tarry Ere we marry, You and I,
Of the feeling I inspire You may tire By and bye.
For Peers with flowing coffers Press their offers— That is why
I think we will not tarry Ere we marry, You and I!
Phyl.
If we're weak enough to tarry Ere we marry, You and I,
With some more attractive maiden, Jewel-laden, You may fly.
If by chance we should be parted, Broken hearted I should die—
So I think we will not tarry Ere we marry, You and I!
Phyl.
But does your mother know you're— I mean, is she aware of an engagement?
Enter Iolanthe.
Iol.
She is—and thus she welcomes her daughter-in-law! (kisses her).
Phyl.
She kisses just like other people! But the Lord Chancellor!
Streph.
I forgot him! Mother, none can resist your fairy eloquence: you will go to him, and plead for us?
Iol.
(Much agitated.) No, no, impossible!
Streph.
But our happiness—our very lives, depend on our obtaining his consent!
