No More Learning

I am not used to answer
Those whom I know not.

_Stral. _ Indeed! Ne'er the less, 530
You might reply with courtesy to what
Is asked in kindness.

_Wer. _ When I know it such
I will requite--that is, _reply_--in unison.

_Stral. _ The intendant said, you had been detained by sickness--
If I could aid you--journeying the same way?

_Wer. _ (_quickly_). I am not journeying the same way!

_Stral. _ How know ye
That, ere you know my route?

_Wer. _ Because there is
But one way that the rich and poor must tread
Together.
You diverged from that dread path
Some hours ago, and I some days: henceforth 540
Our roads must lie asunder, though they tend
All to one home.

_Stral. _ Your language is above
Your station.

_Wer. _ (_bitterly_). Is it?

_Stral. _ Or, at least, beyond
Your garb.

_Wer. _ 'Tis well that it is not beneath it,
As sometimes happens to the better clad.
But, in a word, what would you with me?

_Stral. _ (_startled_). I?

_Wer. _ Yes--you!