We shall next produce the evidence of the Chief Justice of England. He inquires of his attendant, “_if the man who was then passing him was __FALSTAFF__; he who was in question for the robbery._” The attendant answers affirmatively, but reminds his lord “_that he had since done good service at Shrewsbury_”; and the Chief Justice, on this occasion, rating him for his debaucheries, tells him “_that his day’s service at Shrewsbury had gilded over his night’s exploit at Gads Hill._” This is surely more than Common fame: _The Chief Justice_ must have known his whole character taken together, and must have received the most authentic information, and in the truest colours, of his behaviour in that action. But, perhaps, after all, the Military men may be esteemed the best judges in points of this nature. Let us hear then _Coleville_ of the dale, _a Soldier, in degree a Knight, a famous rebel, and_ “_whose betters, had they been ruled by him, would have sold themselves dearer_”: A man who is of consequence enough to be guarded by _Blunt_ and _led to present execution_. This man yields himself up even to the very Name and Reputation of _Falstaff_. “_I think_,” says he, “_you are Sir John Falstaff, and in that thought yield me._” But this is but one only among the men of the sword; and they shall be produced then by _dozens_, if that will satisfy. Upon the return of the King and Prince Henry from Wales, the Prince seeks out and finds _Falstaff_ debauching in a tavern; where _Peto_ presently brings an account of ill news from the North; and adds, “_that as he came along he met or overtook a dozen Captains, bare-headed, sweating, knocking at the taverns, and asking every one for __SIR JOHN FALSTAFF__._” He is followed by _Bardolph_, who informs _Falstaff_ that “_He must away to the Court immediately; a dozen Captains stay at door for him._” Here is Military evidence in abundance, and _Court evidence_ too; for what are we to infer from _Falstaff_’s being sent for to Court on this ill news, but that his opinion was to be asked, as a Military man of skill and experience, concerning the defences necessary to be taken. Nor is _Shakespeare_ content, here, with leaving us to gather up _Falstaff_’s _better character_ from inference and deduction: He comments on the fact by making _Falstaff_ observe that “_Men of merit are sought after: The undeserver may sleep when the man of action is called on._” I do not wish to draw _Falstaff_’s character out of his own mouth; but this observation refers to the fact, and is founded in reason. Nor ought we to reject what in another place he says to the Chief Justice, as it is in the nature of an appeal to his knowledge. “_There is not a dangerous action_,” says he, “_can peep out his head but I am thrust upon it._” The Chief Justice seems by his answer to admit the fact. “_Well, be honest, be honest, and heaven bless your expedition._” But the whole passage may deserve transcribing.