The old English song ‘’Green Sleeves’’
and the story about‘’ The Knight of the Emerald”
Minstrel – Here is, my brothers, the story about “The Knight of the Emerald” and who tells it the other way, that speaks a lie. Once upon a time, here, in old kind England, there was a country which you will find neither in annals nor on a map. Its fields and hills were green, and white horses were grazed in them. Its inhabitants were cheerful, and the knights of that country naked the swords in honour of her majesty , only on tournaments.
Girl I - There were many beautiful men and skillful knights, but one of them would not be equal. His name is not known but his numerous enemies called him “ The Knight of the Emerald” because of his long sword with silver handle was decorated by a great emerald.
(Passing along the road ( Minstrel and the Knight)
Minstrel – Passed 3 years as you, Knight, left the city and said “Good bye” to the king.
Knight – I haven’t quiet in my soul, my friend Minstrel. Enjoy me neither hunting nor tournaments. And this day has come when desire of pilgrimage became intolerable in my soul. I said “Good bye” to the king , to my Mother, saddled the white horse and left the town.
(They go away)
Tavern “Green Sleeves”
Girl I - And when his horse and his green coat disappeared behind a hill ,nobody knew if he would return any time….
Girl II – But only few people noticed how it was heavy look of his green eyes but sometimes, when he didn’t care of himself, his back bent under any hidden
Girl III– And the Knight noticed once with
Though years passed he wasn’t getting older.
(The Knight comes into tavern)
Knight – Hallo! Is anybody here?(Isabel appears)
Why does your tavern have such a strange name?
Isabel - Do you know this song?
Knight – what song?
Isabel – about Green Sleeves
Sings: Alas, my love, you do me wrong
To cast me off discourteously
And I have loved you so long
Delighting in your companie Knight – Yes, I heard it from one of the Minstrels when we were sitting in near a fire. And the song sounded so beautiful and sad! But I don’t know whom this song was about. He didn’t tell anything but “Alas” and “Severe”. I thought, that lady in green was a queen, proud and derisive.
(the knight sings)
Isabel – Your singing is enough beautiful. This lady in green it’s me.(они уходят)
Tavern
Girl I – so, Isabel became his wife . In the same morning he gave her the sword and said: ‘’This is the dearest thing I’ve got. If something happen to you, look at the stone and it may be a miracle.’’
