Allison: I am the governess, patient and true, Charged with the making a lady of you. Come down from that tree and put on your shoes There's things to be learnt and there's no time to lose.
Allison: Helene, you must learn to curtsy properly, like so. Now, you try.
Helene: Ow, sorry!
Alison: Oh dear!
Helene: Alison, can we go outside to the archery range?
Alison: No! It's time for your lessons.
Helene: But you promised to teach me how to shoot!
Alison: *ahem*
These things are important, you're nearly eighteen. Your wedding's just one year away. Your posture's atrocious, your hair isn't clean, Your petticoat's starting to fray.
Alison: I saw Charles again today.
Helene: O, don't talk to me about that oaf.
Alison: He's a fine gentleman.
Helene: I can't stand him!
Alison: You don't have to stand him, just be a good wife; A jewel in the peerage's crown. This party will launch off the rest of your life. Your destiny's worldly renown. I know that it chafes but it's all by design. You'll be the most beautiful bride. And then will come children . . . well, all in good time. A new generation to bide.
Alison: Helene, take off your party dress before you run. Otherwise you might . . . fall down the stairs.
Helene: I'm alright! Oooo…. Ow!
Alison: Oh dear!
I am the governess, patient it's true, But I don't think that I'll make a lady of you. You're dirty and wild and a little bit mad. But, strange as it seems, that isn't so bad. The big day's tomorrow, so rest well my sweet. The morning will come all too soon.
(Helene's counterpoint: You are the governess. Don't make a lady of me. Dirty and wild, little bit mad. Strange as it seems, that isn't so bad. I won't sleep, I can't sleep! Morning will come all too soon!)
Allison: Why does the night come to find me Dancing alone in a dress of the moon? I am here to perfect her, to push her into the sun. Seems all my life has been building to this day. Then why would I give, give it all away For just another ordinary day?