Page 1097 - Shakespeare - Vol. 3

Enter Isabella and Francisca a Nun.

ISABELLA
And have you nuns no farther privileges?

NUN
Are not these large enough?

ISABELLA
Yes, truly; I speak not as desiring more,
But rather wishing a more strict restraint
Upon the sisters stood, the votarists of Saint Clare. [5]

LUCIO
[within]
Hoa! Peace be in this place!

ISABELLA
Who’s that which call?

NUN
It is man’s voice! Gentle Isabella,
Turn you the key, and know his business of him;

You may, I may not; you are yet unsworn:
When you have vow’d, you must not speak with men [10]
But in the presence of the prioress;
Then, if you speak, you must not show your face;

Or if you show your face, you must not speak.
He calls again: I pray you, answer him.
[Retires.]

ISABELLA
Peace and prosperity! Who is’t that calls? [15]

Enter Lucio.

LUCIO