Page 1486 - Shakespeare - Vol. 1

LUCENT IO

Now, mistress, profit you in what you read?

BIANCA

What, master, read you? First resolve me that.

LUCENT IO

I read that I profess, The Art to Love.

BIANCA

And may you prove, sir, master of your art.

LUCENT IO

While you, sweet dear, prove mistress of my heart. [10]

HORT ENSIO

Quick proceeders, marry! Now tell me, I pray,
You that durst swear that your mistress Bianca
Lov’d none in the world so well as Lucentio.

T RANIO

O despiteful love, unconstant womankind!
I tell thee, Litio, this is wonderful. [15]

HORT ENSIO

Mistake no more, I am not Litio,
Nor a musician as I seem to be,
But one that scorn to live in this disguise,
For such a one as leaves a gentleman
And makes a god of such a cullion. [20]
Know, sir, that I am call’d Hortensio.

T RANIO

Signor Hortensio, I have often heard
Of your entire affection to Bianca,
And since mine eyes are witness of her lightness,
I will with you, if you be so contented, [25]
Forswear Bianca and her love for ever.

HORT ENSIO