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?
Helene: How is it we have come to this, A turning that I somehow missed? What weakened strength is left behind For me without your brilliant mind?
I cannot fix your wounded hole Or seek to hold your noble soul But I can hold you till you sleep And sing the song you sing for me
Close your eyes, my dear one And rest your head beside me Night's enchanting slumber Sings you to a safe rest
The lissome night has fallen The clouds are drifting slowly I'll be by your side, dear Till morning has come
Allison: There's nothing here for me to forgive Just live the life that you're meant to live The greatest thing you've done for me Is act to set my soul free
My journey ends tonight it's true But so much more is awaiting you Don't cry my sweet the night is here And while you sleep I will be near
Close your eyes, my dear one And rest your head beside me Night's enchanting slumber Sings you to a safe rest
The lissome night has fallen The clouds are drifting slowly I'll be by your side, dear Till morning has come
Close your eyes, my dear one And rest your head beside me Night's enchanting slumber Sings you to a safe...