Page 862 - Shakespeare - Vol. 4

Paulina, − a piece many years in doing and now newly performed by that
rare Italian master, Julio Romano, who, had he himself eternity and could put
breath into his work, would [95] beguile Nature of her custom, so perfectly he
is her ape: he so near to Hermione hath done Hermione, that they say one

would speak to her and stand in hope of answer. Thither with all greediness
of affection are they gone, and there they intend to sup. [100]

SECOND GENTLEMAN
I thought she had some great matter there in hand; for she hath privately
twice or thrice a day, ever since the death of Hermione, visited that removed

house. Shall we thither, and with our company piece the rejoicing? [105]

FIRST GENTLEMAN

Who would be thence that has the benefit of access? Every wink of an eye,
some new grace will be born: our absence makes us unthrifty to our
knowledge. Let’s along.
Exeunt (Gentleman).

AUTOLYCUS
Now, had I not the dash of my former life in [110] me, would preferment drop

on my head. I brought the old man and his son aboard the prince; told him I
heard them talk of a fardel and I know not what: but he at that time overfond
of the shepherd’s daughter (so he then took her to be), who began to be

much sea-sick, and himself little [115] better, extremity of weather
continuing, this mystery remained undiscovered. But ’tis all one to me; for
had I been the finder out of this secret, it would not have relished among my
other discredits.
Enter Shepherd and Clown.

Here come those I have done good to against my will, and [120] already
appearing in the blossoms of their fortune.

SHEPHERD
Come, boy; I am past moe children, but thy sons and daughters will be all
gentlemen born.

CLOWN