Page 1303 - Shakespeare - Vol. 4

HIPPOLYTA

[kneels]
Though much unlike
You should be so transported, as much sorry

I should he such a suitor, yet I think
Did I not by th’abstaining of my joy,
Which breeds a deeper longing, cure their surfeit [190]
That craves a present medicine, I should pluck
All ladies’ scandal on me. Therefore, sir,

As I shall here make trial of my prayers,
Either presuming them to have some force
Or sentencing for aye their vigour dumb, [195]

Prorogue this business we are going about, and hang
Your shield afore your heart, about that neck
Which is my fee, and which I freely lend
To do these poor queens service.

ALL QUEENS
[to Emilia]

O, help now!
Our cause cries for your knee.

EMILIA
[kneels]
If you grant not [200]

My sister her petition in that force,
With that celerity and nature which
She makes it in, from henceforth I’ll not dare
To ask you anything, nor be so hardy
Ever to take a husband.

THESEUS

Pray stand up. [205]
I am entreating of myself to do
That which you kneel to have me.
All the ladies rise.

Pirithous,
Lead on the bride; get you and pray the gods