Page 160 - Shakespeare - Vol. 2
P. 160
KING JOHN
Doth not the crown of England prove the king?
And if not that, I bring you witnesses,
Twice fifteen thousand hearts of England’s breed − [275]
BASTARD
Bastards and else.
KING JOHN
To verify our title with their lives.
KING PHILIP
As many and as well-born bloods as those −
BASTARD
Some bastards too.
KING PHILIP
Stand in his face to contradict his claim. [280]
HUBERT
Till you compound whose right is worthiest,
We for the worthiest hold the right from both.
KING JOHN
Then God forgive the sin of all those souls
That to their everlasting residence,
Before the dew of evening fall, shall fleet, [285]
In dreadful trial of our kingdom’s king!
KING PHILIP
Amen, amen! Mount, chevaliers! to arms!
BASTARD
Saint George, that swindg’d the dragon, and e’er since
Sits on’s horse-back at mine hostess’ door,
Teach us some fence! [To Austria.] Sirrah, were I at home, [290]
