University of Virginia Library

SCENE IV.

A passage way in the prison. Enter Friar and Gaoler, speaking as they enter.
Gaoler.
But it is past the hour; he must be waked.

Friar.
Waked! dost thou think he sleeps?

Gaoler.
Yes, father; he hath slept, I guess, since midnight.

Friar.
How knowst thou this?

Gaoler.
I've listen'd at his door
From time to time, and nought have heard within
But a deep silence, once or twice brok'n faintly
By slow-heaved breathings, as of heavy sleep.

Friar.
So sound asleep, and such a morn to wake to!

Gaoler.
Nay, they who sleep before their day of doom
Sleep often thus,—a deathlike, dreamless sleep.
[Speaking as he goes off.
I well remember one, who, on the morn—

[Exeunt.