SINGER (looking round at the window). Is Johannes about?
DAUGHTER (surprised). No.
SINGER. Then I will be frank with you. Just lately _I_ have been
wondering too.
DAUGHTER. Oh!
SINGER (rapidly). I have a house; you would like my house. I have
a park; you would like the park. Horses to ride and jewels to wear.
I go to London sometimes and see the King; you would like London.
DAUGHTER (tragically). I have never been to London.
SINGER (letting himself go suddenly). Sweetheart, all that I have--
(In an ordinary whisper) Be careful, Fiddler just went past the
window. (Keeping his arm round her, he breaks into the last line or
two of his song. She joins in, as if they were rehearsing.)
[Enter the FIDDLER.]
SINGER (to DAUGHTER). Yes, I think we have it pretty well now. 'Tis
a good song. (Turning round suddenly and seeing the FIDDLER). Ah,
Fiddler, are you there? What do you think of it?
FIDDLER. Isn't it time to start?
SINGER. To start? Ah yes, we start this afternoon. Well, we have
had a pleasant holiday and must get to work again.
DAUGHTER (eagerly). And I am coming with you.
FIDDLER. It is settled?
DAUGHTER. Oh yes, I think so.
FIDDLER. It is the best life. (TO DAUGHTER) Play something.
[As the DAUGHTER goes to the spinet, the SINGER goes out.]
(They play.
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