Page 1170 - Shakespeare - Vol. 3

PROVOST

[reads]
Whatsoever you may hear to the contrary, et Claudio be executed by four of
the clock, and in the [115] afternoon, Barnardine. For my better satisfaction,

let me have Claudio’s head sent me by five. Let this be duly performed, with
a thought that more depends on it than we must yet deliver. Thus fail not to
do your office, as you will answer it at your peril. [120]
What say you to this, sir?

DUKE
What is that Barnardine, who is to be executed in th’afternoon?

PROVOST
A Bohemian born, but here nursed up and bred; one that is a prisoner nine

years old. [125]

DUKE
How came it that the absent Duke had not either delivered him to his liberty,
or executed him? I have heard it was ever his manner to do so.

PROVOST
His friends still wrought reprieves for him; and indeed, his fact till now in the

government of Lord [130] Angelo came not to an undoubtful proof.

DUKE

It is now apparent?

PROVOST
Most manifest, and not denied by himself.

DUKE
Hath he borne himself penitently in prison? How seems he to be touched?
[135]

PROVOST
A man that apprehends death no more dreadfully but as a drunken sleep;
careless, reckless, and fearless of what’s past, present, or to come: insensible