Sly. Third, or fourth, or fifth borough, I'll answer him by law I'll not budge an inch, boy; let him come, and kindly. [lies down on the ground, and falls asleep. Wind horns. Enter a LORD from hunting, with HUNTSMEN and Servants. Lord. Huntsman, I charge thee, tender well my hounds: Brach1 Merriman, the poor cur is emboss'd,2 I would not lose the dog for twenty pound. 1 Hunts. Why, Belman is as good as he, my lord: He cried upon it at the merest loss, And twice to-day pick'd out the dullest scent. Lord. Thou art a fool; if Echo were as fleet, I would esteem him worth a dozen such. 1 Hunts. I will, my lord. Lord. What's here? one dead, or drunk? See, doth he breathe? 1 Bitch. 2 i. e. her knees are swelled with hard running. 2 Hunts. He breathes, my lord. warm'd with ale, Were he not This were a bed but cold to sleep so soundly. Lord. O monstrous beast! how like a swine he lies! Grim death, how foul and loathsome is thine image! Sirs, I will practise on this drunken man. What think you, if he were convey'd to bed, Wrapp'd in sweet clothes, rings put upon his fingers, A most delicious banquet by his bed, And brave attendants near him when he wakes; 1 Hunts. Believe me, lord, I think he cannot choose. 2 Hunts. It would seem strange unto him when he waked. Lord. Even as a flattering dream, or worthless fancy. Then take him up, and manage well the jest. Carry him gently to my fairest chamber, And hang it round with all my wanton pictures : To make a dulcet and a heavenly sound; Full of rose-water, and bestrew'd with flowers; Another bear the ewer, the third a diaper, And say,—'Will't please your lordship cool you. hands?' Some one be ready with a costly suit, And ask him what apparel he will wear; This do, and do it kindly,1 gentle sirs: If it be husbanded with modesty.2 1 Hunts. My lord, I warrant you, we'll play our part, As he shall think, by our true diligence, He is no less than what we say he is. Lord. Take him up gently, and to bed with him, And each one to his office, when he wakes. [some bear out Sly. A trumpet sounds. Sirrah, go see what trumpet 'tis that sounds: :- [Exit Servant. Belike, some noble gentleman, that means, Players that offer service to your lordship. Enter PLAYERS. 1 Play. We thank Now, fellows, you are welcome. your honor. Lord. Do you intend to stay with me to-night? 2 Play. So please your lordship to accept our duty. Lord. With all my heart.-This fellow I remem ber, Since once he play'd a farmer's eldest son 'Twas where you woo'd the gentlewoman so well. I have forgot your name; but, sure, that part Was aptly fitted, and naturally perform'd. 1 Play. I think, 'twas Soto that your honor means. Lord. 'Tis very true ;— -thou didst it excellent.Well, you are come to me in happy time; The rather for I have some sport in hand, Wherein your cunning can assist me much. There is a lord will hear you play to-night: But I am doubtful of your modesties; Lest, over-eying of his odd behavior, (For yet his honor never heard a play) You break into some merry passion, And so offend him; for I tell you, sirs, If you should smile, he grows impatient. 1 Play. Fear not, my lord; we can contain ourselves, Were he the veriest antic in the world. Lord. Go, sirrah, take them to the buttery,1 And give them friendly welcome every one: Let them want nothing that my house affords.[Exeunt Servant and Players. Sirrah, go you to Bartholomew my page, [to a Servant And see him dress'd in all suits like a lady: Tell him from me, (as he will win my love) May show her duty, and make known her love?' 1 Pantry. |