Page 1904 - Shakespeare - Vol. 2

I could match this beginning with an old tale.

LE BEAU
Three proper young men, of excellent growth and presence − [110]

ROSALIND
With bills on their necks: ‘Be it known unto all men by these presents’ −

LE BEAU
The eldest of the three wrestled with Charles the Duke’s wrestler, which
Charles in a moment threw him and broke three of his ribs, that there is little
hope of life [115] in him. So he served the second, and so the third. Yonder

they lie, the poor old man their father making such pitiful dole over them that
all the beholders take his part with weeping.

ROSALIND
Alas! [120]

TOUCHSTONE
But what is the sport monsieur, that the ladies have lost?

LE BEAU
Why this that I speak of.

TOUCHSTONE

Thus men may grow wiser every day. It is the first time that ever I heard
breaking of ribs was sport [125] for ladies.

CELIA
Or I, I promise thee.

ROSALIND
But is there any else longs to see this broken music in his sides? Is there yet
another dotes upon rib-breaking? Shall we see this wrestling, cousin? [130]

LE BEAU
You must if you stay here, for here is the place appointed for the wrestling,