Page 901 - Shakespeare - Vol. 3

Prove that I husbanded her bed in Florence,
Where yet she never was.
Exit, guarded.

KING
I am wrapped in dismal thinkings.

Enter a Gentleman (the Astringer).

GENTLEMAN

Gracious sovereign,
Whether I have been to blame or no, I know not:
Here’s a petition from a Florentine [130]
Who hath for four or five removes come short
To tender it herself. I undertook it,

Vanquished thereto by the fair grace and speech
Of the poor suppliant, who, by this, I know,
Is here attending. Her business looks in her [135]

With an importing visage, and she told me,
In a sweet verbal brief, it did concern
Your highness with herself.

KING
(reading the letter) Upon his many protestations to marry me when his wife
was dead, I blush to say it, he [140] won me. Now is the Count Rossillion a

widower; his vows are forfeited to me and my honour’s paid to him. He stole
from Florence, taking no leave, and I follow him to his country for justice.
Grant it me, O King! In you it best lies; otherwise a seducer flourishes, and a
[145] poor maid is undone.

Diana Capilet.

LAFEW
I will buy me a son-in law in a fair, and toll for this. I’ll none of him.

KING
The heavens have thought well on thee, Lafew, [150]
To bring forth this discovery. Seek these suitors.
Go speedily, and bring again the Count.