Volume Ix Part 67 (1/2)

Now the last sense I spake with was Olfactus Who, having smelt the meaning of my message, Straight blew his nose, and quickly puff'd me hither; But in the whirlwind of his furious blast, Had not by chance a cobweb held me fast, Mendacio had been with you long ere this.

LIN. Witness this lie, Mendacio's with me now; But, sirrah, out of jesting will they come?

MEN. Yes, and it like your ladys.h.i.+p, presently; Here may you have me prest[177] to flatter them.

LIN. I'll flatter no such proud companions, 'Twill do no good, therefore I am determin'd To leave such baseness.

MEN. Then shall I turn and bid them stay at home?

LIN. No; for their coming hither to this grove Shall be a means to further my device.

Therefore I pray thee, Mendacio, go presently; Run, you vile ape.

MEN. Whither?

LIN. What, dost thou stand?

MEN. Till I know what to do.

LIN. 'Sprecious, 'tis true, So might'st thou finely overrun thine errand.

Haste to my chest.

MEN. Ay, ay.

LIN. There shalt thou find A gorgeous robe and golden coronet; Convey them hither nimbly, let none see them.

MEN. Madam, I fly, I fly. [_Exit_ MENDACIO.

LIN. But hear you, sirrah?

Lock up your fellow-servant Veritas.

MEN. I warrant you, You need not fear so long as I am with you.

[_He goes out, and comes in presently_.

What colour is the robe?

LIN. There is but one.

[MENDACIO, _going, turns in haste_.

MEN. The key, madam, the key.

LIN. By Juno, how forgetful Is sudden speed! Here, take it, run.

MEN. I'll be here instantly.