Page 1384 - Shakespeare - Vol. 2

let [20] that appear when there is no need of such vanity. You are thought
here to be the most senseless and fit man for the constable of the watch;
therefore bear you the lantern. This is your charge; you shall comprehend all
vagrom men; you are to bid any man stand, in the Prince’s [25] name.

SECOND WATCHMAN
How if’a will not stand?

DOGBERRY
Why, then, take no note of him, but let him go; and presently call the rest of
the watch together and thank God you are rid of a knave. [30]

VERGES
If he will not stand when he is bidden, he is none of the Prince’s subjects.

DOGBERRY
True, and they are to meddle with none but the Prince’s subjects. You shall
also make no noise in the streets; for for the watch to babble and to talk is

most [35] tolerable and not to be endured.

FIRST WATCHMAN
We will rather sleep than talk; we know what belongs to a watch.

DOGBERRY
Why, you speak like an ancient and most quiet watchman, for I cannot see
how sleeping should [40] offend; only, have a care that your bills be not
stolen. Well, you are to call at all the ale-houses, and bid those that are

drunk get them to bed.

SECOND WATCHMAN
How if they will not?

DOGBERRY
Why, then, let them alone till they are sober; if [45] they make you not then
the better answer, you may say they are not the men you took them for.

SECOND WATCHMAN