Page 1979 - Shakespeare - Vol. 1

VALENT INE

Thou common friend that’s without faith or love -
For such is a friend now; treacherous man,
Thou hast beguiled my hopes; naught but mine eye
Could have persuaded me. Now I dare not say [65]
I have one friend alive: thou wouldst disprove me.
Who should be trusted now, when one’s right hand
Is perjured to the bosom? Proteus,
I am sorry I must never trust thee more,
But count the world a stranger for thy sake. [70]
The private wound is deepest. O time most accurst!
’Mongst all foes that a friend should be the worst!

PROT EUS

My shame and guilt confounds me.
Forgive me, Valentine; if hearty sorrow
Be a sufficient ransom for offence, [75]
I tender’t here; I do as truly suffer
As e’er I did commit.

VALENT INE

Then I am paid;
And once again I do receive thee honest.
Who by repentance is not satisfied
Is nor of heaven nor earth, for these are pleased; [80]
By penitence th’Eternal’s wrath’s appeased.
And, that my love may appear plain and free,
All that was mine in Silvia I give thee.

JULIA

O me unhappy!

[Swoons]

PROT EUS

Look to the boy. [85]

VALENT INE

Why, boy? Why, wag, how now? What’s the matter? Look up; speak.

JULIA