Page 2458 - Shakespeare - Vol. 1

Another, with his finger and his thumb,
Cried ‘Via, we will do’t, come what will come!’
The third he capered and cried ‘All goes well!’
The fourth turned on the toe, and down he fell.
With that they all did tumble on the ground, [115]
With such a zealous laughter, so profound,
That in this spleen ridiculous appears,
To check their folly, passion’s solemn tears.

PRINCESS

But what, but what? Come they to visit us?

BOY ET

They do, they do, and are apparelled thus, [120]
Like Muscovites or Russians, as I guess.
Their purpose is to parley, court, and dance,
And every one his love-suit will advance
Unto his several mistress, which they’ll know
By favours several which they did bestow. [125]

PRINCESS

And will they so? The gallants shall be tasked;
For, ladies, we will every one be masked,
And not a man of them shall have the grace,
Despite of suit, to see a lady’s face.
Hold, Rosaline, this favour thou shalt wear, [130]
And then the King will court thee for his dear.
Hold, take thou this, my sweet, and give me thine;
So shall Berowne take me for Rosaline.
And change you favours too; so shall your loves
Woo contrary, deceived by these removes. [135]

ROSALINE

Come on, then, wear the favours most in sight.

KAT HARINE

But in this changing what is your intent?

PRINCESS

The effect of my intent is to cross theirs.