Page 1177 - Shakespeare - Vol. 3

Persuade this rude wretch willingly to die.

PROVOST
This shall be done, good father, presently.
But Barnardine must die this afternoon; [80]
And how shall we continue Claudio,
To save me from the danger that might come

If he were known alive?

DUKE
Let this be done: put them in secret holds,
Both Barnardine and Claudio. [85]
Ere twice the sun hath made his journal greeting

To yonder generation, you shall find
Your safety manifested.

PROVOST
I am your free dependant.

DUKE
Quick, dispatch, and send the head to Angelo.
Exit [Provost].

Now will I write letters to Angelo. [90]
The Provost, he shall bear them, whose contents
Shall witness to him I am near at home;
And that by great injunctions I am bound

To enter publicly. Him I’ll desire
To meet me at the consecrated fount [95]
A league below the city; and from thence,
By cold gradation and well-balanc’d form,

We shall proceed with Angelo.

Enter Provost.

PROVOST
Here is the head; I’ll carry it myself.

DUKE