Page 2505 - Shakespeare - Vol. 2

his wife’s inclination; he gives her folly motion and advantage; and now she’s
going to my wife, and Falstaff’s boy [30] with her. A man may hear this
shower sing in the wind. And Falstaff’s boy with her! Good plots! They are
laid; and our revolted wives share damnation together. Well, I will take him,

then torture my wife, pluck the borrowed veil of modesty from the so-
seeming Mistress Page, [35] divulge Page himself for a secure and wilful
Actæon; and to these violent proceedings all my neighbours shall cry aim.
[Clock strikes.] The clock gives me my cue, and my assurance bids me

search; there I shall find Falstaff. I shall be rather praised for this than
mocked, for it is as positive [40] as the earth is firm that Falstaff is there. I
will go.

Enter Page, Shallow, Slender, Host, Evans, Caius [and Rugby.]

SHALLOW, PAGE, etc.
Well met, Master Ford.

FORD

[Aside] Trust me, a good knot. − [Aloud.] I have good cheer at home, and I
pray you all go with me.

SHALLOW
I must excuse myself, Master Ford. [45]

SLENDER
And so must I, sir: we have appointed to dine with Mistress Anne, and I
would not break with her for more money than I’ll speak of.

SHALLOW
We have lingered about a match between Anne Page and my cousin Slender,

and this day we shall have [50] our answer.

SLENDER
I hope I have your good will, father Page.

PAGE
You have, Master Slender, I stand wholly for you. But my wife, Master Doctor,