My tale shall be told

Libretto/Lyrics/Text/Testo:

Duet

TOM
My tale shall be told
both by young and by old.

NICK
Come, master, prepare
your fate to dare.

TOM
A favourite narration
throughout the nation,
remembered by all,
in cottage and hall,
with song and laughter for ever after.

NICK
Perfumed, well-dressed,
and looking your best,
a bachelor of fashion,
eyes hinting at passion.
Your carriage young
and upon your tongue
the gallant speeches that Cupid teaches.

TOM
For tongues will not tire around the fire.
Oh! sitting at meat, the tale to repeat
of the wooing and wedding,
likewise the bedding of Baba,
that masterwork whom nature created
to be celebrated for her features dire.

NICK
Shadow will guide, seek your bride.
On Baba the Turk, your charms work.
What deed is as great as
this gorgon to mate?
All will admire Tom Rakewell, Esquire.

TOM
My heart beats faster.
Come, come Shadow.

NICK
Come, master, and do not falter,

TOM, NICK
To Hymen's altar!
Ye powers, inspire Tom Rakewell Esquire!

Second Scene

(Outside Tom's home. It's getting dark.
Anne comes in)