Page 1973 - Shakespeare - Vol. 2
P. 1973
ORLANDO
I would kiss before I spoke.
ROSALIND
Nay, you were better speak first, and when you were gravelled for lack of
matter, you might take occasion to kiss. Very good orators when they are
out, they will spit, and for lovers lacking − God warr’nt us! − matter, [70] the
cleanliest shift is to kiss.
ORLANDO
How if the kiss be denied?
ROSALIND
Then she puts you to entreaty, and there begins new matter.
ORLANDO
Who could be out, being before his beloved [75] mistress?
ROSALIND
Marry that should you, if I were your mistress, or I should think my honesty
ranker than my wit.
ORLANDO
What, of my suit?
ROSALIND
Not out of your apparel, and yet out of your [80] suit. Am not I your Rosalind?
ORLANDO
I take some joy to say you are, because I would be talking of her.
ROSALIND
Well, in her person, I say I will not have you.
ORLANDO
Then in mine own person, I die. [85]
