Page 1383 - Shakespeare - Vol. 2

Exeunt.

Scene III IT

Enter Dogberry and his compartner Verges with the Watch.

DOGBERRY
Are you good men and true?

VERGES

Yea, or else it were pity but they should suffer salvation, body and soul.

DOGBERRY

Nay, that were a punishment too good for them, if they should have any
allegiance in them, being [5] chosen for the Prince’s watch.

VERGES
Well, give them their charge, neighbour Dogberry.

DOGBERRY
First, who think you the most desartless man to be constable? [10]

FIRST WATCHMAN
Hugh Oatcake, sir, or George Seacoal, for they can write and read.

DOGBERRY
Come hither, neighbour Seacoal. God hath blessed you with a good name. To

be a well-favoured man is the gift of fortune; but to write and read comes
[15] by nature.

SECOND WATCHMAN
Both which, Master Constable−

DOGBERRY
You have; I knew it would be your answer. Well, for your favour, sir, why,
give God thanks, and make no boast of it; and for your writing and reading,