All's Well, that Ends Well

ALL'S Well, that Ends Well.

Actus primus. Scœna Prima.

Enter yong Bertram Count of Rossillion, his Mother, and Helena, Lord Lafew, all in blacke.

Mother. In deliuering my sonne from me, I burie a se­ cond husband.

Ros. And I in going Madam, weep ore my fathers death anew; but I must attend his maie­…

Laf. You shall find of the King a husband Madame, you sir a father. He that so generally…

Mo. What hope is there of his Maiesties amendment?

Laf. He hath abandon'd his Phisitions Madam, vn­ der whose practises he hath persecuted time with hope, and…

Mo. This yong Gentlewoman had a father, O that had, how sad a passage tis, whose skill was…

Laf. How call'd you the man you speake of Madam?

Mo. He was famous sir in his profession, and it was his great right to be so: Gerard…

Laf. He was excellent indeed Madam, the King very latelie spoke of him admiringly, and mourningly: hee was…

Ros. What is it (my good Lord) the King languishes of?

Laf. A Fistula my Lord.

Ros. I heard not of it before.

Laf. I would it were not notorious. Was this Gen­ tlewoman the Daughter of Gerard de Narbon?

Mo. His sole childe my Lord, and bequeathed to my ouer looking. I haue those hopes of her…

Lafew. Your commendations Madam get from her teares.

Mo. 'Tis the best brine a Maiden can season her praise in. The remembrance of her father neuer…

Hell. I doe affect a sorrow indeed, but I haue it too.

Laf. Moderate lamentation is the right of the dead, excessiue greefe the enemie to the liuing.

Mo. If the liuing be enemie to the greefe, the excesse makes it soone mortall.

Ros. Maddam I desire your holie wishes.

Laf. How vnderstand we that?

Mo. Be thou blest Bertrame, and succeed thy father In manners as in shape: thy blood and vertue…

Laf. He cannot want the best That shall attend his loue.

Mo. Heauen blesse him: Farwell Bertram.

Ro. The best wishes that can be forg'd in your thoghts be seruants to you: be comfortable to…

Laf. Farewell prettie Lady, you must hold the cre­ dit of your father.

Hell. O were that all, I thinke not on my father, And these great teares grace his remembrance…

Par. Saue you faire Queene.

Hel. And you Monarch.

Par. No.

Hel. And no.

Par. Are you meditating on virginitie?

Hel. I: you haue some staine of souldier in you: Let mee aske you a question. Man is…

Par. Keepe him out.

Hel. But he assailes, and our virginitie though vali­ ant, in the defence yet is weak: vnfold to…

Par. There is none: Man setting downe before you, will vndermine you, and blow you vp.

Hel. Blesse our poore Virginity from vnderminers and blowers vp. Is there no Military policy how Vir­ gins…

Par. Virginity beeing blowne downe, Man will quicklier be blowne vp: marry in blowing him downe againe, with…

Hel. I will stand for't a little, though therefore I die a Virgin.

Par. There's little can bee saide in't, 'tis against the rule of Nature. To speake on the part…

Hel. How might one do sir, to loose it to her owne liking?

Par. Let mee see. Marry ill, to like him that ne're it likes. 'Tis a commodity wil lose…

Hel. Not my virginity yet: There shall your Master haue a thousand loues, A Mother, and a Mistresse,…

Par. What one ifaith?

Hel. That I wish well, 'tis pitty.

Par. What's pitty?

Hel. That wishing well had not a body in't, Which might be felt, that we the poorer borne,…

Enter Page.

Pag. Monsieur Parrolles, My Lord cals for you.

Par. Little Hellen farewell, if I can remember thee, I will thinke of thee at Court.

Hel. Monsieur Parolles, you were borne vnder a charitable starre.

Par. Vnder Mars I.

Hel. I especially thinke, vnder Mars.

Par. Why vnder Mars?

Hel. The warres hath so kept you vnder, that you must needes be borne vnder Mars.

Par. When he was predominant.

Hel. When he was retrograde I thinke rather.

Par. Why thinke you so?

Hel. You go so much backward when you fight.

Par. That's for aduantage.

Hel. So is running away, When feare proposes the safetie: But the composition that your valour and feare…

Paroll. I am so full of businesses, I cannot answere thee acutely: I will returne perfect Courtier, in…

Hel. Our remedies oft in our selues do lye, Which we ascribe to heauen: the fated skye Giues…

Exit

Flourish Cornets. Enter the King of France with Letters, and diuers Attendants.

King. The Florentines and Senoys are by th' eares, Haue fought with equall fortune, and continue A brauing…

1. Lo. G. So tis reported sir.

King. Nay tis most credible, we heere receiue it, A certaintie vouch'd from our Cosin Austria, With caution,…

1. Lo. G. His loue and wisedome Approu'd so to your Maiesty, may pleade For amplest credence.

King. He hath arm'd our answer, And Florence is deni'de before he comes: Yet for our Gentlemen that…

2. Lo. E. It well may serue A nursserie to our Gentrie, who are sicke For breathing, and…

King. What's he comes heere.

Enter Bertram, Lafew, and Parolles.

1. Lor. G. It is the Count Rosignoll my good Lord, Yong Bertram.

King. Youth, thou bear'st thy Fathers face, Franke Nature rather curious then in hast Hath well compos'd thee:…

Ber. My thankes and dutie are your Maiesties.

Kin. I would I had that corporall soundnesse now, As when thy father, and my selfe, in friendship…

Ber. His good remembrance sir Lies richer in your thoughts, then on his tombe: So in approofe liues…

King. Would I were with him he would alwaies say, (Me thinkes I heare him now) his plausiue…

L.2.E. You'r loued Sir, They that least lend it you, shall lacke you first.

Kin. I fill a place I know't: how long ist Count Since the Physitian at your fathers died?…

Ber. Some six moneths since my Lord.

Kin. If he were liuing, I would try him yet. Lend me an arme: the rest haue worne…

Ber. Thanke your Maiesty.

Exit

Flourish.

Enter Countesse, Steward, and Clowne.

Coun. I will now heare, what say you of this gentle­ woman.

Ste. Maddam the care I haue had to euen your con­ tent, I wish might be found in…

Coun. What doe's this knaue heere? Get you gone sirra: the complaints I haue heard of you I…

Clo. 'Tis not vnknown to you Madam, I am a poore fellow.

Coun. Well sir.

Clo. No maddam, 'Tis not so well that I am poore, though manie □f the rich are damn'd,…

Coun. Wilt thou needes be a begger?

Clo. I doe beg your good will in this case.

Cou. In what case?

Clo. In Isbels case and mine owne: seruice is no heri □□ge, and I thinke I shall neuer…

Cou. Tell me thy reason why thou wilt marrie?

Clo. My poore bodie Madam requires it, I am driuen □n by the flesh, and hee must needes…

Cou. Is this all your worships reason?

Clo. Faith Madam I haue other holie reasons, such as □□ey are.

Cou. May the world know them?

Clo. I haue beene Madam a wicked creature, as you □nd all flesh and blood are, and indeede…

Cou. Thy marriage sooner then thy wickednesse.

Clo. I am out a friends Madam, and I hope to haue □riends for my wiues sake.

Cou. Such friends are thine enemies knaue.

Clo. Y'are shallow Madam in great friends, for the □naues come to doe that for me which I…

Cou. Wilt thou euer be a foule mouth'd and calum □ious knaue?

Clo. A Prophet I Madam, and I speake the truth the □ext waie, for I the Ballad will…

Cou. Get you gone sir, Ile talke with you more anon.

Stew. May it please you Madam, that hee bid Hellen □ome to you, of her I am to…

Cou. Sirra tell my gentlewoman I would speake with □er, Hellen I meane.

Clo. Was this faire face the cause, quoth she, Why the Grecians sacked Troy, Fond done, done, fond…

Cou. What, one good in tenne? you corrupt the song □irra.

Clo. One good woman in ten Madam, which is a pu­ rifying ath' song: would God would serue…

Cou. Youle begone sir knaue, and doe as I command you?

Clo. That man should be at womans command, and yet no hurt done, though honestie be no Puritan,…

Exit.

Cou. Well now.

Stew. I know Madam you loue your Gentlewoman intirely.

Cou. Faith I doe: her Father bequeath'd her to mee, and she her selfe without other aduantage, may…

Stew. Madam, I was verie late more neere her then I thinke shee wisht mee, alone shee was,…

Cou. You haue discharg'd this honestlie, keepe it to your selfe, manie likelihoods inform'd mee of this before,…

Exit Steward.

Enter Hellen.

Old. Cou. Euen so it vvas with me when I was yong: If euer vve are natures, these…

Hell. What is your pleasure Madam?

Ol. Cou. You know Hellen I am a mother to you.

Hell. Mine honorable Mistris.

Ol. Cou. Nay a mother, why not a mother? when I sed a mother Me thought you saw…

Hell. That I am not.

Old. Cou. I say I am your Mother.

Hell. Pardon Madam. The Count Rosillion cannot be my brother: I am from humble, he from honored name:…

Ol. Cou. Nor I your Mother.

Hell. You are my mother Madam, would you were So that my Lord your sonne were not my…

Old. Cou. Yes Hellen, you might be my daughter in law, God shield you meane it not, daughter…

Hell. Good Madam pardon me.

Cou. Do you loue my Sonne?

Hell. Your pardon noble Mistris.

Cou. Loue you my Sonne?

Hell. Doe not you loue him Madam?

Cou. Goe not about; my loue hath in't a bond Whereof the world takes note: Come, come, disclose:…

Hell. Then I confesse Here on my knee, before high heauen and you, That before you, and next…

Cou. Had you not lately an intent, speake truely, To goe to Paris?

Hell. Madam I had.

Cou. Wherefore? tell true.

Hell. I will tell truth, by grace it selfe I sweare: You know my Father left me some…

Cou. This was your motiue for Paris, was it, speake?

Hell. My Lord, your sonne, made me to think of this; Else Paris, and the medicine, and the…

Cou. But thinke you Hellen, If you should tender your supposed aide, He would receiue it? He and…

Hell. There's something in't More then my Fathers skill, which was the great'st Of his profession, that his…

Cou. Doo'st thou beleeue't?

Hell. I Madam knowingly.

Cou. Why Hellen thou shalt haue my leaue and loue, Meanes and attendants, and my louing greetings To…

Exeunt.

Actus Secundus.

Enter the King with diuers yong Lords, taking leaue for the Florentine warre: Count, Rosse, and Parrolles. Florish…

King. Farewell yong Lords, these warlike principles Doe not throw from you, and you my Lords farewell: Share…

Lord. G. 'Tis our hope sir, After well entred souldiers, to returne And finde your grace in health.

King. No, no, it cannot be; and yet my heart Will not confesse he owes the mallady That…

L. G. Health at your bidding serue your Maiesty.

King. Those girles of Italy, take heed of them, They say our French, lacke language to deny If…

Bo. Our hearts receiue your warnings.

King. Farewell, come hether to me.

1. Lo. G. Oh my sweet Lord yt you wil stay behind vs.

Parr. 'Tis not his fault the spark.

2. Lo. E. Oh 'tis braue warres.

Parr. Most admirable, I haue seene those warres.

Rossill. I am commanded here, and kept a coyle with, Too young, and the next yeere, and 'tis…

Parr. And thy minde stand too't boy, Steale away brauely.

Rossill. I shal stay here the for‑horse to a smocke, Creeking my shooes on the plaine Masonry, Till…

1. Lo. G. There's honour in the theft.

Parr. Commit it Count.

2. Lo. E. I am your accessary, and so farewell.

Ros. I grow to you, & our parting is a tortur'd body.

1. Lo. G. Farewell Captaine.

2. Lo. E. Sweet Mounsier Parolles.

Parr. Noble Heroes; my sword and yours are kinne, good sparkes and lustrous, a word good mettals. You…

Lo. G. We shall noble Captaine.

Parr. Mars doate on you for his nouices, what will ye doe?

Ross. Stay the King.

Parr. Vse a more spacious ceremonie to the Noble Lords, you haue restrain'd your selfe within the List…

Ross. And I will doe so.

Parr. Worthy fellowes, and like to prooue most si­ newie sword‑men.

Exeunt.

Enter Lafew.

L. Laf. Pardon my Lord for mee and for my tidings. (pardon,

King. Ile see thee to stand vp.

L. Laf. Then heres a man stands that has brought his (pardon, I would you had kneel'd my…

King. I would I had, so I had broke thy pate And askt thee mercy for't.

Laf. Goodfaith a‑crosse, but my good Lord 'tis thus, Will you be cur'd of your infirmitie?

King. No.

Laf. O will you eat no grapes my royall foxe? Yes but you will, my noble grapes, and…

King. What her is this?

Laf. Why doctor she: my Lord, there's one arriu'd, If you will see her: now by my faith…

King. Now good Lafew, Bring in the admiration, that we with thee May spend our wonder too, or…

Laf. Nay, Ile fit you, And not be all day neither.

King. Thus he his speciall nothing euer prologues.

Laf. Nay, come your waies.

Enter Hellen.

King. This haste hath wings indeed.

Laf. Nay, come your waies, This is his Maiestie, say your minde to him, A Traitor you doe…

Exit.

King. Now faire one, do's your busines follow vs?

Hel. I my good Lord, Gerard de Narbon was my father, In what he did professe, well found.

King. I knew him.

Hel. The rather will I spare my praises towards him, Knowing him is enough: on's bed of death,…

King. We thanke you maiden, But may not be so credulous of cure, When our most learned Doctors…

Hell. My dutie then shall pay me for my paines: I will no more enforce mine office on…

King. I cannot giue thee lesse to be cal'd gratefull: Thou thoughtst to helpe me, and such thankes…

Hell. What I can doe, can doe no hurt to try, Since you set vp your rest 'gainst…

King. I must not heare thee, fare thee wel kind maide, Thy paines not vs'd, must by thy…

Hel. Inspired Merit so by breath is bard, It is not so with him that all things knowes…

King. Art thou so confident? Within what space Hop'st thou my cure?

Hel. The greatest grace lending grace, Ere twice the horses of the sunne shall bring Their fiery torcher…

King. Vpon thy certainty and confidence, What dar'st thou venter?

Hell. Taxe of impudence, A strumpets boldnesse, a divulged shame Traduc'd by odious ballads: my maidens name Seard…

Kin. Methinks in thee some blessed spirit doth speak His powerfull sound, within an organ weake: And what…

Hel. If I breake time, or flinch in property Of what I spoke, vnpittied let me die, And…

Kin. Make thy demand.

Hel. But will you make it euen?

Kin. I by my Scepter, and my hopes of helpe.

Hel. Then shalt thou giue me with thy kingly hand What husband in thy power I will command:…

Kin. Heere is my hand, the premises obseru'd, Thy will by my performance shall be seru'd: So make…

Florish. Exit.

Enter Countesse and Clowne.

Lady. Come on sir, I shall now put you to the height of your breeding.

Clown. I will shew my selfe highly fed, and lowly taught, I know my businesse is but to…

Lady. To the Court, why what place make you spe­ ciall, when you put off that with such…

Clo. Truly Madam, if God haue lent a man any man­ ners, hee may easilie put it off…

Lady. Marry that's a bountifull answere that fits all questions.

Clo. It is like a Barbers chaire that fits all buttockes, the pin buttocke, the quatch‑buttocke, the brawn…

Lady. Will your answere serue fit to all questions?

Clo. As fit as ten groats is for the hand of an Attu­ rney, as your French Crowne…

Lady. Haue you, I say, an answere of such fitnesse for all questions?

Clo. From below your Duke, to beneath your Con­ stable, it will fit any question.

Lady. It must be an answere of most monstrous size, that must fit all demands.

Clo. But a triflle neither in good faith, if the learned should speake truth of it: heere it…

Lady. To be young againe if we could: I will bee a foole in question, hoping to bee…

La. I pray you sir, are you a Courtier?

Clo. O Lord sir theres a simple putting off: more, more, a hundred of them.

La. Sir I am a poore freind of yours, that loues you.

Clo. O Lord sir, thicke, thicke, spare not me.

La. I thinke sir, you can eate none of this homely meate.

Clo. O Lord sir; nay put me too't, I warrant you.

La. You were lately whipt sir as I thinke.

Clo. O Lord sir, spare not me.

La. Doe you crie O Lord sir at your whipping, and spare not me? Indeed your O Lord…

Clo. I nere had worse lucke in my life in my O Lord sir: I see things may…

La. I play the noble huswife with the time, to enter­ taine it so merrily with a foole.

Clo. O Lord sir, why there't serues well agen.

La. And end sir to your businesse: giue Hellen this, And vrge her to a present answer backe,…

Clo. Not much commendation to them.

La. Not much imployement for you, you vnder­ stand me.

Clo. Most fruitfully, I am there, before my legegs.

La. Hast you agen.

Exeunt

Enter Count, Lafew, and Parolles.

Ol. Laf. They say miracles are past, and we haue our Philosophicall persons, to make moderne and familiar…

Par. Why 'tis the rarest argument of wonder, that hath shot out in our latter times.

Ros. And so 'tis.

Ol. Laf. To be relinquisht of the Artists.

Par. So I say both of Galen and Paracelsus.

Ol. Laf. Of all the learned and authenticke fellowes.

Par. Right so I say.

Ol. Laf. That gaue him out incureable.

Par. Why there 'tis, so say I too.

Ol. Laf. Not to be help'd.

Par. Right, as 'twere a man assur'd of a⸺

Ol. Laf. Vncertaine life, and sure death.

Par. Iust, you say well: so would I haue said.

Ol. Laf. I may truly say, it is a noueltie to the world.

Par. It is indeede if you will haue it in shewing, you shall reade it in what do…

Ol. Laf. A shewing of a heauenly effect in an earth­ ly Actor.

Par. That's it, I would haue said, the verie same.

Ol. Laf. Why your Dolphin is not lustier: fore mee I speake in respect⸺

Par. Nay 'tis strange, 'tis very straunge, that is the breefe and the tedious of it, and he's…

Ol. Laf. Very hand of heauen.

Par. I, so I say.

Ol. Laf. In a most weake⸺

Par. And debile minister great power, great tran­ cendence, which should indeede giue vs a further vse to…

Old Laf. Generally thankfull.

Enter King, Hellen, and attendants.

Par. I would haue said it, you say well: heere comes the King.

Ol. Laf. Lustique, as the Dutchman saies: Ile like a maide the Better whil'st I haue a tooth…

Par. Mor du vinager, is not this Helen?

Ol. Laf. Fore God I thinke so.

King. Goe call before mee all the Lords in Court, Sit my preseruer by thy patients side, And…

Hel. To each of you, one faire and vertuous Mistris; Fall when loue please, marry to each but…

Old Laf. I'de giue bay curtall, and his furniture My mouth no more were broken then these boyes,…

King. Peruse them well: Not one of those, but had a Noble father.

She addresses her to a Lord.

Hel. Gentlemen, heauen hath through me, restor'd the king to health.

All. We vnderstand it, and thanke heauen for you.

Hel. I am a simple Maide, and therein wealthiest That I protest, I simply am a Maide: Please…

King. Make choise and see, Who shuns thy loue, shuns all his loue in mee.

Hel. Now Dian from thy Altar do I fly, And to imperiall loue, that God most high Do…

1. Lo. And grant it.

Hel. Thankes sir, all the rest is mute.

Ol. Laf. I had rather be in this choise, then throw Ames‑ace for my life.

Hel. The honor sir that flames in your faire eyes, Before I speake too threatningly replies: Loue make…

2. Lo. No better if you please.

Hel. My wish receiue, Which great loue grant, and so I take my leaue.

Ol. Laf. Do all they denie her? And they were sons of mine, I'de haue them whip'd, or…

Hel. Be not afraid that I your hand should take, Ile neuer do you wrong for your owne…

Old Laf. These boyes are boyes of Ice, they'le none haue heere: sure they are bastards to the…

La. You are too young, too happie, and too good To make your selfe a sonne out of…

4. Lord. Faire one, I thinke not so.

Ol. Lord There's one grape yet, I am sure thy father drunke wine. But if thou be'st not…

Hel. I dare not say I take you, but I giue Me and my seruice, euer whilst I…

King. Why then young Bertram take her shee's thy wife.

Ber. My wife my Leige? I shal beseech your highness In such a busines, giue me leaue to…

King. Know'st thou not Bertram what shee ha's done for mee?

Ber. Yes my good Lord, but neuer hope to know why I should marrie her.

King. Thou know'st shee ha's rais'd me from my sick­ ly bed.

Ber. But followes it my Lord, to bring me downe Must answer for your raising? I knowe her…

King. Tis onely title thou disdainst in her, the which I can build vp: strange is it that…

Ber. I cannot loue her, nor will striue to doo't.

King. Thou wrong'st thy selfe, if thou shold'st striue to choose.

Hel. That you are well restor'd my Lord, I'me glad: Let the rest go.

King. My Honor's at the stake, which to defeate I must produce my power. Heere, take her hand,…

Ber. Pardon my gracious Lord: for I submit My fancie to your eies, when I consider What great…

King. Take her by the hand, And tell her she is thine: to whom I promise A counterpoize:…

Ber. I take her hand.

Kin. Good fortune, and the fauour of the King Smile vpon this Contract: whose Ceremonie Shall seeme expedient…

Exeunt

Parolles and Lafew stay behind, commen­ ting of this wedding.

Laf. Do you heare Monsieur? A word with you.

Par. Your pleasure sir.

Laf. Your Lord and Master did well to make his re­ cantation.

Par. Recantation? My Lord? my Master?

Laf. I: Is it not a Language I speake?

Par. A most harsh one, and not to bee vnderstoode without bloudie succeeding My Master?

Laf. Are you Companion to the Count Rosillion? Par. To any Count, to all Counts: to what is…

Laf. To what is Counts man: Counts maister is of another stile.

Par. You are too old sir: Let it satisfie you, you are too old.

Laf. I must tell thee sirrah, I write Man: to which title age cannot bring thee.

Par. What I dare too well do, I dare not do.

Laf. I did thinke thee for two ordinaries: to bee a prettie wise fellow, thou didst make tollerable…

Par. Hadst thou not the priuiledge of Antiquity vp­ on thee.

Laf. Do not plundge thy selfe to farre in anger, least thou hasten thy triall: which if, Lord…

Par. My Lord, you giue me most egregious indignity.

Laf. I with all my heart, and thou art worthy of it.

Par. I haue not my Lord deseru'd it.

Laf. Yes good faith, eu'ry dramme of it, and I will not b□te thee a scruple.

Par. Well, I shall be wiser.

Laf. Eu'n as soone as thou can'st, for thou hast to pull at a smacke a'th contrarie. If…

Par. My Lord you do me most insupportable vexati­ on.

Laf. I would it were hell paines for thy sake, and my poore doing eternall: for doing I…

Exit.

Par. Well, thou hast a sonne shall take this disgrace off me; scuruy, old, filthy, scuruy Lord: Well,…

Enter Lafew.

Laf. Sirra, your Lord and masters married, there's newes for you: you haue a new Mistris.

Par. I most vnfainedly beseech your Lordshippe to make some reseruation of your wrongs. He is my good…

Laf. Who? God.

Par. I sir.

Laf. The deuill it is, that's thy master. Why dooest thou garter vp thy armes a this fashion?…

Par. This is hard and vndeserued measure my Lord.

Laf. Go too sir, you were beaten in Italy for picking a kernell out of a Pomgranat, you…

Exit

Enter Count Rossillion.

Par. Good, very good, it is so then: good, very good, let it be conceal'd awhile.

Ros. Vndone, and forfeited to cares for euer.

Par. What's the matter sweet‑heart?

Rossill. Although before the solemne Priest I haue sworne, I will not bed her.

Par. What? what sweet heart?

Ros. O my Parrolles, they haue married me: Ile to the Tuscan warres, and neuer bed her.

Par. France is a dog‑hole, and it no more merits, The tread of a mans foot: too'th warres.

Ros. There's letters from my mother: What th' im­ port is, I know not yet.

Par. I that would be knowne: too'th warrs my boy, too'th warres: He weares his honor in a…

Ros. It shall be so, Ile send her to my house, Acquaint my mother with my hate to…

Par. Will this Caprichio hold in thee, art sure?

Ros. Go with me to my chamber, and aduice me. Ile send her straight away: To morrow, Ile…

Par. Why these bals bound, ther's noise in it. Tis hard A yong man maried, is a man…

Exit

Enter Helena and Clowne.

Hel. My mother greets me kindly, is she well?

Clo. She is not well, but yet she has her health, she's very merrie, but yet she is…

Hel. If she be verie wel, what do's she ayle, that she's not verie well?

Clo. Truly she's very well indeed, but for two things

Hel. What two things?

Clo. One, that she's not in heauen, whether God send her quickly: the other, that she's in earth,…

Enter Parolles.

Par. Blesse you my fortunate Ladie

Hel. I hope sir I haue your good will to haue mine owne good fortune.

Par. You had my prayers to leade them on, and to keepe them on, haue them still. O…

Clo. So that you had her wrinkles, and I her money, I would she did as you say.

Par. Why I say nothing.

Clo. Marry you are the wiser man: for many a mans tongue shakes out his masters vndoing: to…

Par. Away, th'art a knaue.

Clo. You should haue said sir before a knaue, th'art a knaue, that's before me th'art a knaue:…

Par. Go too, thou art a wittie foole, I haue found thee.

Clo. Did you finde me in your selfe sir, or were you taught to finde me?

Clo. The search sir was profitable, and much Foole may you find in you, euen to the worlds…

Par. A good knaue ifaith, and well fed. Madam, my Lord will go awaie to night, A verie…

Hel. What's his will else?

Par. That you will take your instant leaue a'th king, And make this hast as your owne good…

Hel. What more commands hee?

Par. That hauing this obtain'd, you presentlie Attend his further pleasure.

Hel. In euery thing I waite vpon his will.

Par. I shall report it so.

Exit Par.

Hel. I pray you come sirrah.

Exit

Enter Lafew and Bertram.

Laf. But I hope your Lordshippe thinkes not him a souldier.

Ber. Yes my Lord and of verie valiant approofe.

Laf. You haue it from his owne deliuerance.

Ber. And by other warranted testimonie.

Laf. Then my Diall goes not true, I tooke this Larke for a bunting.

Ber. I do assure you my Lord he is very great in know­ ledge, and accordinglie valiant.

Laf. I haue then sinn'd against his experience, and transgrest against his valour, and my state that way…

Enter Parolles.

Par. These things shall be done sir.

Laf. Pray you sir whose his Tailor?

Par. Sir?

Laf. O I know him well, I sir, hee sirs a good worke­ man, a verie good Tailor.

Ber. Is shee gone to the king?

Par. Shee is.

Ber. Will shee away to night?

Par. As you'le haue her.

Ber. I haue writ my letters, casketted my treasure, Giuen order for our horses, and to night, When…

Laf. A good Trauailer is something at the latter end of a dinner, but on that lies three…

Ber. Is there any vnkindnes betweene my Lord and □□u Monsieur?

Par. I know not how I haue deserued to run into my □ords displeasure.

Laf. You haue made shift to run into't, bootes and spurres and all: like him that leapt into…

Ber. It may bee you haue mistaken him my Lord.

Laf. And shall doe so euer, though I tooke him at's prayers. Fare you well my Lord, and…

Par. An idle Lord, I sweare.

Ber. I thinke so.

Par. Why do you not know him?

Ber. Yes, I do know him well, and common speech Giues him a worthy passe. Heere comes my…

Enter Helena.

Hel. I haue sir as I was commanded from you Spoke with the King, and haue procur'd his…

Ber. I shall obey his will. You must not meruaile Helen at my course, Which holds not colour…

Hel. Sir, I can nothing say, But that I am your most obedient seruant.

Ber. Come, come, no more of that.

Hel. And euer shall With true obseruance seeke to eeke out that Wherein toward me my homely starres…

Ber. Let that goe: my hast is verie great. Farwell: Hie home.

Hel. Pray sir your pardon.

Ber. Well, what would you say?

Hel. I am not worthie of the wealth I owe, Nor dare I say 'tis mine: and yet…

Ber. What would you haue?

Hel. Something, and scarse so much: nothing indeed, I would not tell you what I would my Lord:…

Ber. I pray you stay not, but in hast to horse.

Hel. I shall not breake your bidding, good my Lord: Where are my other men? Monsieur, farwell.

Exit

Ber. Go thou toward home, where I wil neuer come, Whilst I can shake my sword, or heare…

Par. Brauely, Coragio.

Actus Tertius.

Flourish. Enter the Duke of Florence, the two Frenchmen, with a troope of Souldiers.

Duke. So that from point to point, now haue you heard The fundamentall reasons of this warre, Whose…

1. Lord. Holy seemes the quarrell Vpon your Graces part: blacke and fearefull On the opposer.

Duke. Therefore we meruaile much our Cosin France Would in so iust a businesse, shut his bosome Against…

French E. Good my Lord, The reasons of our state I cannot yeelde, But like a common and…

Duke. Be it his pleasure.

Fren. G. But I am sure the yonger of our nature, That surfet on their ease, will day…

Duke. Welcome shall they bee: And all the honors that can flye from vs, Shall on them settle:…

Flourish.

Enter Countesse and Clowne.

Count. It hath happen'd all, as I would haue had it, saue that he comes not along with…

Clo. By my troth I take my young Lord to be a ve­ rie melancholly man.

Count. By what obseruance I pray you.

Clo. Why he will looke vppon his boote, and sing: mend the Ruffe and sing, aske questions and…

Lad. Let me see what he writes, and when he meanes to come.

Clow. I haue no minde to Isbell since I was at Court. Our old Lings, and our Isbels…

Lad. What haue we heere?

Clo. In that you haue there.

exit

A Letter. I haue sent you a daughter‑in‑Law, shee hath recouered the King, and vndone me: I haue…

Enter Clowne.

Clow. O Madam, yonder is heauie newes within be­ tweene two souldiers, and my yong Ladie.

La. What is the matter.

Clo. Nay there is some comfort in the newes, some comfort, your sonne will not be kild so…

La. Why should he be kill'd?

Clo. So say I Madame, if he runne away, as I heare he does, the danger is in…

Enter Hellen and two Gentlemen.

French E. Saue you good Madam.

Hel. Madam, my Lord is gone, for euer gone.

French G. Do not say so.

La. Thinke vpon patience, pray you Gentlemen, I haue felt so many quirkes of ioy and greefe, That…

Fren.G. Madam he's gone to serue the Duke of Flo­ rence, We met him thitherward, for thence we…

Hel. Looke on his Letter Madam, here's my Pasport. When thou canst get the Ring vpon my finger,…

La. Brought you this Letter Gentlemen?

1. G. I Madam, and for the Contents sake are sorrie for our paines.

Old La. I prethee Ladie haue a better cheere, If thou engrossest, all the greefes are thine, Thou…

Fren.G. I Madam

La. And to be a souldier.

Fren.G. Such is his noble purpose, and beleeu't The Duke will lay vpon him all the honor That…

La. Returne you thither.

Fren.E. I Madam, with the swiftest wing of speed.

Hel. Till I haue no wife, I haue nothing in France, 'Tis bitter.

La. Finde you that there?

Hel. I Madame.

Fren. E. 'Tis but the boldnesse of his hand haply, which his heart was not consenting too.

Lad. Nothing in France, vntill he haue no wife: There's nothing heere that is too good for him…

Fren. E. A seruant onely, and a Gentleman: whlch I haue sometime knowne.

La. Parolles was it not?

Fren. E. I my good Ladie, hee.

La. A verie tainted fellow, and full of wickednesse, My sonne corrupts a well deriued nature With his…

Fren. E. Indeed good Ladie the fellow has a deale of that, too much, which holds him much…

La. Y'are welcome Gentlemen, I will intreate you when you see my sonne, to tell him that his…

Fren. G. We serue you Madam in that and all your worthiest affaires.

La. Not so, but as we change our courtesies, Will you draw neere?

Exit.

Hel. Till I haue no wife I haue nothing in France. Nothing in France vntill he has no…

Exit.

Flourish. Enter the Duke of Florence, Rossillion, drum and trumpets, soldiers, Parrolles.

Duke. The Generall of our horse thou art, and we Great in our hope, lay our best loue…

Ber. Sir it is A charge too heauy for my strength, but yet Wee'l striue to beare it…

Duke. Then go thou forth, And fortune play vpon thy prosperous helme As thy auspicious mistris.

Ber. This very day Great Mars I put my selfe into thy file, Make me but like my…

Exeunt omnes

Enter Countesse & Steward.

La. Alas! and would you take the letter of her: Might you not know she would do, as…

He is too good and faire for death, and mee,

Whom I my selfe embrace, to set him free.

Ah what sharpe stings are in her mildest words?

Rynaldo, you did neuer lacke aduice so much,

As letting her passe so: had I spoke with her,

I could haue well diuerted her intents,

Which thus she hath preuented.

Ste. Pardon me Madam, If I had giuen you this at ouer‑night, She might haue beene ore‑tane: and…

La. What Angell shall Blesse this vnworthy husband, he cannot thriue, Vnlesse her prayers, whom heauen delights to…

Exeunt

A Tucket afarre off.

Enter old Widdow of Florence, her daughter, Violenta and Mariana, with other Citizens.

Widdow. Nay come, For if they do approach the Citty, We shall loose all the sight.

Diana. They say, the French Count has done Most honourable seruice.

Wid. It is reported, That he has taken their great'st Commander, And that with his owne hand he…

Maria. Come lets returne againe, And suffice our selues with the report of it. Well Diana, take heed…

Widdow. I haue told my neighbour How you haue beene solicited by a Gentleman His Companion.

Maria. I know that knaue, hang him, one Parolles, a filthy Officer he is in those suggestions for…

Dia. You shall not neede to feare me.

Enter Hellen.

Wid. I hope so: looke here comes a pilgrim, I know she will lye at my house, thither…

Hel. To S. Iaques la grand. Where do the Palmers lodge, I do beseech you?

Wid. At the S. Francis heere beside the Port.

Hel. Is this the way?

A march afarre.

Wid. I marrie ist. Harke you, they come this way: If you will tarrie holy Pilgrime But till…

Hel. Is it your selfe?

Wid. If you shall please so Pilgrime.

Hel. I thanke you, and will stay vpon your leisure.

Wid. you came I thinke from France?

Hel. I did so.

Wid. Heere you shall see a Countriman of yours That has done worthy seruice.

Hel. His name I pray you?

Dia. The Count Rossillion: know you such a one?

Hel. But by the eare that heares most nobly of him: His face I know not.

Dia. What somere he is He's brauely taken heere. He stole from France As 'tis reported: for the…

Hel. I surely meere the truth, I know his Lady.

Dia. There is a Gentleman that serues the Count, Reports but coursely of her.

Hel. What's his name?

Dia. Monsieur Parrolles.

Hel. Oh I beleeue with him, In argument of praise, or to the worth Of the great Count…

Dian. Alas poore Ladie, 'Tis a hard bondage to become the wife Of a detesting Lord.

Wid. I write good creature, wheresoere she is, Her hart waighes sadly: this yong maid might do her…

Hel. How do you meane? May be the amorous Count solicites her In the vnlawfull purpose.

Wid. He does indeede, And brokes with all that can in such a suite Corrupt the tender honour…

Drumme and Colours. Enter Count Rossillion, Parrolles, and the whole Armie.

Mar. The goddes forbid else.

Wid. So, now they come: That is Anthonio the Dukes eldest sonne, That Escalus.

Hel. Which is the Frenchman?

Dia. Hee, That with the plume, 'tis a most gallant fellow, I would he lou'd his wife: if…

Hel. I like him well.

Di. 'Tis pitty he is not honest: yonds that same knaue That leades him to these places: were…

Hel. Which is he?

Dia. That Iacke an‑apes with scarfes. Why is hee melancholly?

Hel. Perchance he's hurt i'th battaile.

Par. Loose our drum? Well.

Mar. He's shrewdly vext at something. Looke he has spyed vs.

Wid. Marrie hang you.

Mar. And your curtesie, for a ring‑carrier.

Exit.

Wid. The troope is past: Come pilgrim, I wil bring you, Where you shall host: Of inioyn'd penitents…

Hel. I humbly thanke you: Please it this Matron, and this gentle Maide To eate with vs to…

Both. Wee'l take your offer kindly.

Exeunt.

Enter Count Rossillion and the Frenchmen, as at first.

Cap. E. Nay good my Lord put him too't: let him haue his way.

Cap. G. If your Lordshippe finde him not a Hilding, hold me no more in your respect.

Cap. E. On my life my Lord a bubble.

Ber. Do you thinke I am so farre Deceiued in him.

Cap. E. Beleeue it my Lord, in mine owne direct knowledge, without any malice, but to speake of…

Cap. G. It were fit you knew him, least reposing too farre in his vertue which he hath…

Ber. I would I knew in what particular action to try him.

Cap. G. None better then to let him fetch off his drumme, which you heare him so confidently…

C. E. I with a troop of Florentines wil sodainly sur­ prize him; such I will haue whom…

Cap. G. O for the loue of laughter, let him fetch his drumme, he sayes he has a…

Enter Parrolles.

Cap. E. O for the loue of laughter hinder not the ho­ nor of his designe, let him…

Ber. How now Monsieur? This drumme sticks sore­ ly in your disposition.

Cap. G. A pox on't, let it go, 'tis but a drumme.

Par. But a drumme: Ist but a drumme? A drum so lost. There was excellent command, to charge…

Cap. G. That was not to be blam'd in the command of the seruice: it was a disaster…

Ber. Well, wee cannot greatly condemne our suc­ cesse: some dishonor wee had in the losse of that…

Par. It might haue beene recouered.

Ber. It might, but it is not now.

Par. It is to be recouered, but that the merit of ser­ uice is sildome attributed to the…

Ber. Why if you haue a stomacke, too't Monsieur: if you thinke your mysterie in stratagem, can bring…

Par. By the hand of a souldier I will vndertake it.

Ber. But you must not now slumber in it.

Par. Ile about it this euening, and I will presently pen downe my dilemma's, encourage my selfe in…

Ber. May I bee bold to acquaint his grace you are gone about it.

Par. I know not what the successe wil be my Lord, but the attempt I vow.

Ber. I know th'art valiant, And to the possibility of thy souldiership, Will subscribe for thee: Farewell.

Par. I loue not many words.

Exit

Cap. E. No more then a fish loues water. Is not this a strange fellow my Lord, that…

Cap. G. You do not know him my Lord as we doe, certaine it is that he will…

Ber. Why do you thinke he will make no deede at all of this that so seriouslie hee…

Cap. E. None in the world, but returne with an in­ uention, and clap vpon you two or…

Cap. G. Weele make you some sport with the Foxe ere we case him. He was first smoak'd…

Cap. E. I must go looke my twigges, He shall be caught.

Ber. Your brother he shall go along with me.

Cap. G. As't please your Lordship, Ile leaue you.

Ber. Now wil I lead you to the house, and shew you The Lasse I spoke of.

Cap. E. But you say she's honest.

Ber. That's all the fault: I spoke with hir but once, And found her wondrous cold, but I…

Cap. E. With all my heart my Lord.

Exeunt.

Enter Hellen, and Widdow.

Hel. If you misdoubt me that I am not shee, I know not how I shall assure you…

Wid. Though my estate be falne, I was well borne, Nothing acquainted with these businesses, And would not…

Hel. Nor would I wish you. First giue me trust, the Count he is my husband, And what…

Wid. I should beleeue you, For you haue shew'd me that which well approues Y'are great in fortune.

Hel. Take this purse of Gold, And let me buy your friendly helpe thus farre, Which I will…

Wid. Now I see the bottome of your purpose.

Hel. You see it lawfull then, it is no more, But that your daughter ere she seemes as…

Wid. I haue yeelded: Instruct my daughter how she shall perseuer, That time and place with this deceite…

Hel. Why then to night Let vs assay our plot, which if it speed, Is wicked meaning in…

Actus Quartus.

Enter one of the Frenchmen, with fiue or sixe other souldiers in ambush.

1. Lord E. He can come no other way but by this hedge corner: when you sallie vpon…

1. Sol. Good Captaine, let me be th' Interpreter.

Lor. E. Art not acquainted with him? knowes he not thy voice?

1. Sol. No sir I warrant you.

Lo. E. But what linsie wolsy hast thou to speake to vs againe.

1. Sol. E'n such as you speake to me.

Lo. E. He must thinke vs some band of strangers, i'th aduersaries entertainment. Now he hath a smacke…

Enter Parrolles.

Par. Ten a clocke: Within these three houres 'twill be time enough to goe home. What shall I…

Lo. E. This is the first truth that ere thine own tongue was guiltie of.

Par. What the diuell should moue mee to vndertake the recouerie of this drumme, being not ignorant of…

Lo. E. Is it possible he should know what hee is, and be that he is.

Par. I would the cutting of my garments wold serue the turne, or the breaking of my Spanish…

Lo. E. We cannot affoord you so.

Par. Or the baring of my beard, and to say it was in stratagem.

Lo. E. 'Twould not do.

Par. Or to drowne my cloathes, and say I was stript.

Lo. E. Hardly serue.

Par. Though I swore I leapt from the window of the Citadell.

Lo. E. How deepe?

Par. Thirty fadome.

Lo. E. Three great oathes would scarse make that be beleeued.

Par. I would I had any drumme of the enemies, I would sweare I recouer'd it.

Lo. E. You shall heare one anon.

Par. A drumme now of the enemies.

Alarum within.

Lo. E. Throca movousus, cargo, cargo, cargo.

All. Cargo, cargo, cargo, villianda par corbo, cargo.

Par. O ransome, ransome, Do not hide mine eyes.

Inter. Boskos thromuldo boskos.

Par. I know you are the Muskos Regiment, And I shall loose my life for want of language.…

Int. Boskos vauvado, I vnderstand thee, & can speake thy tongue: Kerelybonto sir, betake thee to thy faith,…

Par. Oh.

Inter. Oh pray, pray, pray, Manka reuania dulche.

Lo. E. Oscorbidulchos voliuorco.

Int. The Generall is content to spare thee yet, And hoodwinkt as thou art, will leade thee on…

Par. O let me liue, And all the secrets of our campe Ile shew, Their force, their purposes:…

Inter. But wilt thou faithfully?

Par. If I do not, damne me.

Inter. Acordo linta. Come on, thou are granted space.

Exit

A short Alarum within.

L.E. Go tell the Count Rossillion and my brother, We haue caught the woodcocke, and will keepe him…

Sol. Captaine I will.

L.E. A will betray vs all vnto our selues, Informe on that.

Sol. So I will sir.

L.E. Till then Ile keepe him darke and safely lockt.

Exit

Enter Bertram, and the Maide called Diana.

Ber. They told me that your name was Fontybell.

Dia. No my good Lord, Diana.

Ber. Titled Goddesse, And worth it with addition: but faire soule, In your fine frame hath loue no…

Dia. She then was honest.

Ber. So should you be.

Dia. No: My mother did but dutie, such (my Lord) As you owe to your wife.

Ber. No more a'that: I prethee do not striue against my vowes: I was compell'd to her, but…

Dia. I so you serue vs Till we serue you: But when you haue our Roses, You barely…

Ber. How haue I sworne.

Dia. Tis not the many oathes that makes the truth, But the plaine single vow, that is vow'd…

Ber. Change it, change it: Be not so holy cruell: Loue is holie, And my integritie ne're knew…

Dia. I see that men make rope's in such a scarre, That wee'l forsake our selues. Giue me…

Ber. Ile lend it thee my deere; but haue no power To giue it from me.

Dia. Will you not my Lord?

Ber. It is an honour longing to our house, Bequeathed downe from manie Ancestors, Which were the greatest…

Dian. Mine Honors such a Ring, My chastities the Iewell of our house, Bequeathed downe from many Ancestors,…

Ber. Heere, take my Ring, My house, mine honor, yea my life be thine, And Ile be bid…

Dia. When midnight comes, knocke at my cham­ ber window: Ile order take, my mother shall not heare.…

Ber. A heauen on earth I haue won by wooing thee.

Di. For which, liue long to thank both heauen & me, You may so in the end. My…

Exit

Enter the two French Captaines, and some two or three Souldiours.

Cap. G. You haue not giuen him his mothers letter.

Cap.E. I haue deliu'red it an houre since, there is som thing in't that stings his nature: for…

Cap. G. He has much worthy blame laid vpon him, for shaking off so good a wife, and…

Cap. E. Especially, hee hath incurred the euerlasting displeasure of the King, who had euen tun'd his bounty…

Cap. G. When you haue spoken it 'tis dead, and I am the graue of it.

Cap. E. Hee hath peruerted a young Gentlewoman heere in Florence, of a most chaste renown, & this…

Cap. G. Now God delay our rebellion as we are our selues, what things are we.

Cap. E. Meerely our owne traitours. And as in the common course of all treasons, we still see…

Cap.G. Is it not meant damnable in vs, to be Trum­ peters of our vnlawfull intents? We shall…

Cap. E. Not till after midnight: for hee is dieted to his houre.

Cap. G. That approaches apace: I would gladly haue him see his company anathomiz'd, that hee might take…

Cap. E. We will not meddle with him till he come; for his presence must be the whip…

Cap. G. In the meane time, what heare you of these Warres?

Cap. E. I heare there is an ouerture of peace.

Cap. G. Nay, I assure you a peace concluded.

Cap. E. What will Count Rossillion do then? Will he trauaile higher, or returne againe into France?

Cap. G. I perceiue by this demand, you are not alto­ gether of his councell.

Cap. E. Let it be forbid sir, so should I bee a great deale of his act.

Cap. G. Sir, his wife some two months since fledde from his house, her pretence is a pilgrimage…

Cap. E. How is this iustified?

Cap. G. The stronger part of it by her owne Letters, which makes her storie true, euen to…

Cap. E. Hath the Count all this intelligence?

Cap. G. I, and the particular confirmations, point from point, to the full arming of the veritie.

Cap. E. I am heartily sorrie that hee'l bee gladde of this.

Cap. G. How mightily sometimes, we make vs com­ forts of our losses.

Cap. E. And how mightily some other times, wee drowne our gaine in teares, the great dignitie that…

Cap. G. The webbe of our life, is of a mingled yarne, good and ill together: our vertues…

Ser. He met the Duke in the street sir, of whom hee hath taken a solemne leaue: his…

Cap. E. They shall bee no more then needfull there, if they were more then they can commend.

Enter Count Rossillion.

Ber. They cannot be too sweete for the Kings tart­ nesse, heere's his Lordship now. How now my…

Ber. I haue to night dispatch'd sixteene businesses, a moneths length a peece, by an abstract of successe:…

Cap. E. If the businesse bee of any difficulty, and this morning your departure hence, it requires hast…

Ber. I meane the businesse is not ended, as fearing to heare of it hereafter: but shall we…

Cap. E. Bring him forth, ha's sate i'th stockes all night poore gallant knaue.

Ber. No matter, his heeles haue deseru'd it, in vsur­ ping his spurres so long. How does he…

Cap. E. I haue told your Lordship alreadie: The stockes carrie him. But to answer you as you…

Ber. Nothing of me, ha's a?

Cap. E. His confession is taken, and it shall bee read to his face, if your Lordshippe be…

Enter Parolles with his Interpreter.

Ber. A plague vpon him, muffeld; he can say nothing of me: hush, hush.

Cap. G. Hoodman comes: Portotartarossa.

Inter. He calles for the tortures, what will you say without em.

Par. I will confesse what I know without constraint, If ye pinch me like a Pasty, I can…

Int. Bosko Chimurcho.

Cap. Boblibindo chicurmurco.

Int. You are a mercifull Generall: Our Generall bids you answer to what I shall aske you out…

Par. And truly, as I hope to lieu.

Int. First demand of him, how many horse the Duke is strong. What say you to that?

Par. Fiue or sixe thousand, but very weake and vn­ seruiceable: the troopes are all scattered, and the…

Int. Shall I set downe your answer so?

Par. Do, Ile take the Sacrament on't, how & which way you will: all's one to him.

Ber. What a past‑sauing slaue is this?

Cap. G. Y'are deceiu'd my Lord, this is Mounsieur Parrolles the gallant militarist, that was his owne phrase…

Cap. E. I will neuer trust a man againe, for keeping his sword cleane, nor beleeue he can…

Int. Well, that's set downe.

Par. Fiue or six thousand horse I sed, I will say true, or thereabouts set downe, for Ile…

Cap. G. He's very neere the truth in this.

Ber. But I con him no thankes for't in the nature he deliuers it.

Par. Poore rogues, I pray you say.

Int. Well, that's set downe.

Par. I humbly thanke you sir, a truth's a truth, the Rogues are maruailous poore.

Interp. Demaund of him of what strength they are a foot. What say you to that?

Par. By my troth sir, if I were to liue this present houre, I will tell true. Let…

Ber. What shall be done to him?

Cap. G. Nothing, but let him haue thankes. Demand of him my condition: and what credite I haue…

Int. Well that's set downe: you shall demaund of him, whether one Captaine Dumaine bee i'th Campe, a…

Par. I beseech you let me answer to the particular of the intergatories. Demand them singly.

Int. Do you know this Captaine Dumaine?

Par. I know him, a was a Botchers Prentize in Paris, from whence he was whipt for getting…

Ber. Nay, by your leaue hold your hands, though I know his braines are forfeite to the next…

Int. Well, is this Captaine in the Duke of Florences campe?

Par. Vpon my knowledge he is, and lowsie.

Cap. G. Nay looke not so vpon me: we shall heare of your Lord anon.

Int. What is his reputation with the Duke?

Par. The Duke knowes him for no other, but a poore Officer of mine, and writ to mee…

Int. Marry we'll search.

Par. In good sadnesse I do not know, either it is there, or it is vpon a file…

Int. Heere 'tis, heere's a paper, shall I reade it to you?

Par. I do not know if it be it or no.

Ber. Our Interpreter do's it well.

Cap. G. Excellently.

Int. Dian, the Counts a foole, and full of gold.

Par. That is not the Dukes letter sir: that is an ad­ uertisement to a proper maide in…

Int. Nay, Ile reade it first by your fauour.

Par. My meaning in't I protest was very honest in the behalfe of the maid: for I knew…

Ber. Damnable both‑sides rogue.

Int. Let. When he sweares oathes, bid him drop gold, and take it: After he scores, he neuer…

Ber. He shall be whipt through the Armie with this rime in's forehead.

Cap. E. This is your deuoted friend sir, the manifold Linguist, and the army‑potent souldier.

Ber. I could endure any thing before but a Cat, and now he's a Cat to me.

Int. I perceiue sir by your Generals lookes, wee shall be faine to hang you.

Par. My life sir in any case: Not that I am afraide to dye, but that my offences…

Int. Wee'le see what may bee done, so you confesse freely: therefore once more to this Captaine Dumaine:…

Par. He will steale sir an Egge out of a Cloister: for rapes and rauishments he paralels Nessus.…

Cap. G. I begin to loue him for this.

Ber. For this description of thine honestie? A pox vpon him for me, he's more and more a…

Int. What say you to his expertnesse in warre?

Par. Faith sir, ha's led the drumme before the Eng­ lish Tragedians: to belye him I will not,…

Cap. G. He hath out‑villain'd villanie so farre, that the raritie redeemes him.

Ber. A pox on him, he's a Cat still.

Int. His qualities being at this poore price, I neede not to aske you, if Gold will corrupt…

Par. Sir, for a Cardceue he will sell the fee‑simple of his saluation, the inheritance of it, and…

Int. What's his Brother, the other Captain Dumain?

Cap. E. Why do's he aske him of me?

Int. What's he?

Par. E'ne a Crow a'th same nest: not altogether so great as the first in goodnesse, but greater…

Int. If your life be saued, will you vndertake to betray the Florentine.

Par. I, and the Captaine of his horse, Count Rossillion.

Int. Ile whisper with the Generall, and knowe his pleasure.

Par. Ile no more drumming, a plague of all drummes, onely to seeme to deserue well, and to…

Int. There is no remedy sir, but you must dye: the Generall sayes, you that haue so traitorously…

Par. O Lord sir let me liue, or let me see my death.

Int. That shall you, and take your leaue of all your friends: So, looke about you, know you…

Count. Good morrow noble Captaine.

Lo. E. God blesse you Captaine Parolles.

Cap. G. God saue you noble Captaine.

Lo. E. Captain, what greeting will you to my Lord Lafew? I am for France.

Cap. G. Good Captaine will you giue me a Copy of the sonnet you writ to Diana in…

Exeunt.

Int. You are vndone Captaine all but your scarfe, that has a knot on't yet.

Par. Who cannot be crush'd with a plot?

Inter. If you could finde out a Countrie where but women were that had receiued so much shame,…

Exit

Par. Yet am I thankfull: if my heart were great 'Twould burst at this: Captaine Ile be no…

Exit.

Enter Hellen, Widdow, and Diana.

Hel. That you may well perceiue I haue not wrong'd you, One of the greatest in the Christian…

Wid. Gentle Madam, You neuer had a seruant to whose trust Your busines was more welcome.

Hel. Nor your Mistris Euer a friend, whose thoughts more truly labour To recompence your loue: Doubt not…

Dia. Let death and honestie Go with your impositions, I am yours Vpon your will to suffer.

Hel. Yet I pray you: But with the word the time will bring on summer, When Briars shall…

Exeunt

Enter Clowne, old Lady, and Lafew.

Laf. No, no, no, your sonne was misled with a snipt taffata fellow there, whose villanous saffron wold…

La. I would I had not knowne him, it was the death of the most vertuous gentlewoman, that…

Laf. Twas a good Lady, 'twas a good Lady. Wee may picke a thousand sallets ere wee light…

Clo. Indeed sir she was the sweete Margerom of the sallet, or rather the hearbe of grace.

Laf. They are not hearbes you knaue, they are nose­ hearbes.

Clowne. I am no great Nabuchadnezar sir, I haue not much skill in grace.

Laf. Whether doest thou professe thy selfe, a knaue or a foole?

Clo. A foole sir at a womans seruice, and a knaue at a mans.

Laf. Your distinction.

Clo. I would cousen the man of his wife, and do his seruice.

Laf. So you were a knaue at his seruice indeed.

Clo. And I would giue his wife my bauble sir to doe her seruice.

Laf. I will subscribe for thee, thou art both knaue and foole.

Clo. At your seruice.

Laf. No, no, no.

Clo. Why sir, if I cannot serue you, I can serue as great a prince as you are.

Laf. Whose that, a Frenchman?

Clo. Faith sir a has an English maine, but his fisno­ mie is more hotter in France then…

Laf. What prince is that?

Clo. The blacke prince sir, alias the prince of darke­ nesse, alias the diuell.

Laf. Hold thee there's my purse, I giue thee not this to suggest thee from thy master thou…

Clo. I am a woodland fellow sir, that alwaies loued a great fire, and the master I speak…