University of Virginia Library

Scæna prima.

Enter Antigonus and Menippus.
Ant.
Thou hast taken wondrous pains; but yet Menippus,
You understand not of what bloud, & countrey.

Men.
I labour'd that, but cannot come to know it.
A Greek I am sure she is, she speaks this language.

Ant.
Is she so excellent handsome?

Men.
Most inticing.

Ant.
Sold for a prisoner?

Men.
Yes sir,
Some poore creature.

Ant.
And he loves tenderly?

Men.
They say extreamly.

Ant.
'Tis well prevented then: yes, I perceiv'd it:
When he took leave now, he made a hundred stops,
Desir'd an houre, but halfe an houre, a minute,
Which I with anger cross'd; I knew his businesse,
I knew 'twas she he hunted on; this journey, man,
I beat out suddenly for her cause intended,
And would not give him time to breath. When comes she?

Men.
This morning sir.

Ant.
Lodge her to all delight then:
For I would have her try'd toth' test: I know,
She must be some crackt coyne, not fit his traffique,
Which when we have found, the shame will make him leave her,
Or we shal work a nearer way: Ile bury him,
And with him all the hopes I have cast upon him,
Ere he shall dig his owne grave in that woman:
You know which way to bring her: Ile stand close there,
To view her as she passes: and doe you hear Menippus,
Observe her with all sweetnesse: humour her,
'T will make her lie more carelesse to our purposes.
Away, and take what helpes you please.

Men.
I am gone sir.

Exeunt.