Part 221 (1/2)

You are our general, and give out the orders; We follow you, though the track lead to h.e.l.l.

BUTLER (appeased).

Good, then! we know each other.

MACDONALD.

I should hope so.

DEVEREUX.

Soldiers of fortune are we--who bids most He has us.

MACDONALD.

'Tis e'en so!

BUTLER.

Well, for the present You must remain honest and faithful soldiers.

DEVEREUX.

We wish no other.

BUTLER.

Ay, and make your fortunes.

MACDONALD.

That is still better.

BUTLER.

Listen!

BOTH.

We attend.

BUTLER.

It is the emperor's will and ordinance To seize the person of the Prince-Duke Friedland Alive or dead.

DEVEREUX.

It runs so in the letter.

MACDONALD.

Alive or dead--these were the very words.

BUTLER.

And he shall be rewarded from the state In land and gold who proffers aid thereto.

DEVEREUX.

Ay! that sounds well. The words sound always well That travel hither from the court. Yes! yes!

We know already what court-words import.

A golden chain perhaps in sign of favor, Or an old charger, or a parchment-patent, And such like. The prince-duke pays better.

MACDONALD.

Yes, The duke's a splendid paymaster.