Page 885 - Shakespeare - Vol. 3

That every braggart shall be found an ass.
Rust, sword; cool, blushes; and Parolles live
Safest in shame; being fooled, by foolery thrive. [325]
There’s place and means for every man alive.

I’ll after them.
Exit.

Scene IV IT

Enter Helena, the Widow, and Diana.

HELENA

That you may well perceive I have not wronged you
One of the greatest in the Christian world
Shall be my surety; fore whose throne ’tis needful,
Ere I can perfect mine intents, to kneel.

Time was, I did him a desirèd office, [5]
Dear almost as his life, which gratitude
Through flinty Tartar’s bosom would peep forth
And answer thanks. I duly am informed

His grace is at Marcellus, to which place
We have convenient convoy. You must know [10]
I am supposèd dead. The army breaking,
My husband hies him home, where, heaven aiding,

And by the leave of my good lord the King,
We’ll be before our welcome.

WIDOW
Gentle madam,
You never had a servant to whose trust [15]
Your business was more welcome.

HELENA

Nor you, mistress,
Ever a friend whose thoughts more truly labour
To recompense your love. Doubt not but heaven
Hath broght me up to be your daughter’s dower,