Page 527 - Shakespeare - Vol. 3
P. 527
Olivia’s House
Enter Maria and Clown.
MARIA
Nay, either tell me where thou hast been, or I will not open my lips so wide
as a bristle may enter, in way of thy excuse: my lady will hang thee for thy
absence.
CLOWN
Let her hang me: he that is well hanged in this world needs to fear no
colours. [5]
MARIA
Make that good.
CLOWN
He shall see none to fear.
MARIA
A good lenten answer. I can tell thee where that saying was born, of ‘I fear
no colours’.
CLOWN
Where, good Mistress Mary? [10]
MARIA
In the wars, and that may you be bold to say in your foolery.
CLOWN
Well, God give them wisdom that have it; and those that are fools, let them
use their talents.
MARIA
Yet you will be hanged for being so long absent; [15] or to be turned away−
is not that as good as a hanging to you?
