Page 837 - Shakespeare - Vol. 3

BERTRAM

I think not so.

PAROLLES
Why, do you not know him? [50]

BERTRAM
Yes, I do know him well, and common speech
Gives him a worthy pass. Here comes my clog.

Enter Helena.

HELENA
I have, sir, as I was commanded from you,

Spoke with the King, and have procured his leave
For present parting; only he desires [55]
Some private speech with you.

BERTRAM
I shall obey his will.

You must not marvel, Helen, at my course,
Which holds not colour with the time, nor does
The ministration and requirèd office
On my particular. Prepared I was not [60]

For such a business, therefore am I found
So much unsettled. This drives me to entreat you
That presently you take your way for home,
And rather muse than ask why I entreat you;

For my respects are better than they seem, [65]
And my appointments have in them a need
Greater than shows itself at the first view
To you that know them not. This to my mother.

He gives Helena a letter.
‘Twill be two days ere I shall see you, so
I leave you to your wisdom.

HELENA
Sir, I can nothing say [70]