Page 1385 - Shakespeare - Vol. 2

Well, sir.

DOGBERRY
If you meet a thief, you may suspect him, by virtue of your office, to be no
true man; and, for such [50] kind of men, the less you meddle or make with
them, why, the more is for your honesty.

SECOND WATCHMAN
If we know him to be a thief, shall we not lay hands on him?

DOGBERRY
Truly, by your office, you may, but I think [55] they that touch pitch will be

defiled. The most peaceable way for you, if you do take a thief, is to let him
show himself what he is and steal out of your company.

VERGES
You have been always called a merciful man, partner. [60]

DOGBERRY
Truly, I would not hang a dog by my will, much more a man who hath any

honesty in him.

VERGES

If you hear a child cry in the night, you must call to the nurse and bid her still
it.

SECOND WATCHMAN
How if the nurse be a sleep and will [65] not hear us?

DOGBERRY
Why, then, depart in peace, and let the child wake her with crying; for the
ewe that will not hear her lamb when it baes will never answer a calf when

he bleats. [70]

VERGES
’Tis very true.