Beaumont and Fletcher's Works, Vol. 03 of 10: The Loyal SubjectFletcher, John
General
Beaumont and Fletcher's Works, Vol. 03 of 10: The Loyal Subject
Fletcher, John
English drama -- 18th century; Tragicomedy
_Du._I long to see it,
Because I would judge of the whole piece: some excellent painting,
Or some rare spoils you would keep to entertain me
Another time, I know.
_A[r]c._ In troth there is not,
Nor any thing worth your sight; below I have
Some Fountains, and some Ponds.
_Du._ I would see this now.
_Ar._ _Boroskie_, thou art a Knave; it contains nothing
But rubbish from the other rooms and unnecessaries:
Will't please you see a strange Clock?
_Du._ This or nothing: [_Little Trunk ready._
Why should you bar it up thus with defences
Above the rest, unless it contain'd something
More excellent, and curious of keeping?
Open't, for I will see it.
_Arc._ The Keys are lost, Sir:
Does your Grace think if it were fit for you,
I could be so unmannerly?
_Du._ I will see it, and either shew it--
_Arc._ Good Sir--
_Du._ Thank ye, _Archas_,
You shew your love abundantly,
Do I use to entreat thus? force it open.
_Bur._ That were inhospitable; you are his Guest, Sir,
And with his greatest joy, to entertain ye.
_Du._ Hold thy peace, Fool; will ye open it?
_Arc._ Sir, I cannot.
I must not if I could.
_Du._ Go, break it open.
_Arc._ I must withstand that force: Be not too rash, Gentlemen.
_Du._ Unarm him first, then if he be not obstinate
Preserve his life.
_Arc._ I thank your Grace, I take it;
And now take you the Keys, go in, and see, Sir;
There feed your eyes with wonder, and thank that Traytor,
That thing that sells his faith for favour. [_Exit Duke._
_Bur._ Sir, what moves ye?
_Arc._ I have kept mine pure: Lord _Burris_, there's a _Judas_,
That for a smile will sell ye all: a Gentleman?
The Devil has more truth, and has maintain'd it;
A Whores heart more belief in't.
_Enter Duke._
_Du._ What's all this, _Archas_?
I cannot blame you to conceal it so,
This most inestimable Treasure.
_Ar._ Yours Sir.
_Du._ Nor do I wonder now the Souldier sleights me.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
Reviews
Reviews
No reviews yet
Be the first to share your thoughts on this work.
Join the Discussion
Join the discussion
Sign in to leave a comment or review.
Sign InorCreate an account