Page 849 - Shakespeare - Vol. 3

I could have well diverted her intents,
Which thus she hath prevented.

STEWARD
Pardon me, madam.
If I had given you this at overnight
She might have been o’erta’en; and yet she writes

Pursuit would be but vain.

COUNTESS
What angel shall [25]
Bless this unworthy husband? He cannot thrive,
Unless her prayers, whom heaven delights to hear

And loves to grant, reprieve him from the wrath
Of greatest justice. Write, write, Rynaldo,
To this unworthy husband of his wife. [30]
Let every word weigh heavy of her worth

That he does weigh too light. My greatest grief,
Though little he do feel it, set down sharply.
Dispatch the most convenient messenger.
When haply he shall hear that she is gone, [35]

He will return; and hope I may that she,
Hearing so much, will speed her foot again,
Led hither by pure love. Which of them both
Is dearest to me I have no skill in sense

To make distinction. Provide this messenger. [40]
My heart is heavy and mine age is weak;
Grief would have tears, and sorrow bids me speak.
Exeunt.

Scene V IT

A tucket afar off. Enter the old Widow of Florence, her daughter Diana, and
Mariana, with other citizens.

WIDOW
Nay, come, for if they do approach the city, we shall lose all the sight.