Volume Vi Part 7 (1/2)

[HYP. He is Kit Careless.]

None dare reprove me, of that I am sure, So long as authority on my side endure.

But to thy words a while I will list; Therefore in brief say on what you will.

AVARICE.

I would have you show rigour to such as resist, And such as be obstinate spare not to kill; But those that be willing your hests to fulfil,

[HYP. Hark the practice of spiteful Sumnors.]

If they offend, and not of obstinacy, For money excuse them, though they use villany, Thus shall you perform your office aright, For favour or money to spare the offendent.

TYRANNY.

So may I also, of malice or spite, Or rancour of mind,[37] punish the innocent.

But I will be ruled by thine arbitrament, And will favour such as will my hand grease.

The devil is a good fellow, if one can him please:[38]

[HYP. And you are one of his sons, methink, by your head.]

But to follow our business great pains we do take; On an hasty message we were fit to be sent.

HYPOCRISY [_Aside_].

When I lie a-dying, I will you messengers make: You ply you so fast, you are too-too diligent.

Whoop how, Master Zeal, whither are ye bent?

AVARICE.

Hark! methought one hallooed, and called you by name.

TYRANNY.

I would it were Hypocrisy.

AVARICE.

It is the very same.

What, Master Hypocrisy, for you I have sought This hour or two, but could you not find.

HYPOCRISY.

That is no marvel, it is not for nought, For I am but little, and you two are blind; Neither have you eyes to see with behind: Yet may the learned note herein a mystery, That neither Tyranny nor Avarice can find out Hypocrisy.

But what earnest business have you in charge, That with so great speed must presently be finished?

TYRANNY.

Marry, see here.

HYPOCRISY.

What is it?

TYRANNY.

A commission large From my Lord Legate himself authorised, The effect whereof must presently be practised.

HYPOCRISY.

What is the tenure,[39] pray you let me know?