University of Virginia Library

SCENE VI.

Porch of Westminster Abbey. A Snow-storm.
De Broke outside on his knees, in squalid penitential attire.
Enter persons of different ages, sexes, and conditions, who pass into the Church. Some turn away their heads from De Broke with horror and scorn and detestation; some hide their faces in their hands, some spit at him: the children throw ashes and filth, the old women scowl upon him, banning and reviling.
A procession of Nuns, who all close their veils and make a sign of the cross as they go by him. A procession of Monks, who all pull over their cowls, and cross themselves; the last puts into De Broke's hand a scourge.
Enter then a Laybrother going to the Refectory with provisions, on which he is regaling himself.
De Broke
(to the Laybrother).
I starve!

[The Laybrother flings a bare bone at him.
De Broke.
O mercy! but one drop to warm
My freezing veins!

[The Laybrother flings an empty flask at him, and exit.