University of Virginia Library

SCENE IV.

Changes to the Bush.
Enter Hubert, with a Letter; and the Beggars, one with a Torch.
Hub.
Tread soft, and watchful.

Hig.
But what's the action we are for now? ha!
Robbing a Ripper of his fish?

Prig.
Or taking a poulterer prisoner without ransom?

Hig.
Or cutting off a convoy of butter?
Or surprising a boor's ken for grunting cheats?

Prig.
Or cackling cheats? Oh I could drive a regiment
Of geese before me such a night as this, ten leagues,
With my hat and staff, and not a hiss heard, nor
A wing of all my troops disorder'd.

Hub.
So far my hopes are fair!

Hig.

Let me alone with the farmer's dog, if you
have a mind to the cheese-lost—'tis but thus—and he's
a silenc'd mastiff, during pleasure.

Hub.
Wou'd it might please you to be silent!

Hig.
Mum!

Hub.
Now, boys, for your allegiance! Be careful;
It shall make fortunes for ye!

Prig.
Doubt us not, boy.

Hub.
You heed not a few scratches?

Prig.
No, nor bruises in the service of our master.

Hub.
'Tis bravely said—Lead on to the dark hovel,
That stands hard by under the blasted sir!
There will I follow straight—and give ye all
Your full instructions.

Prig.
'Tis enough—we're gone.

[Exeunt.
Hub.
AIR.

[Exit.