A King, and No King Part 11

_Bes_.

I call'd him to me, _Cosroes_ said I.

_Pan_.

I will hear no more.

_Bes_.

No, no, I lie.

_Bac_.

I dare be sworn thou dost.

_Bes_.

Captain said I, so it was.

_Pan_.

I tell thee, I will hear no further.

_Bes_.

No? Your Grace will wish you had.

_Pan_.

I will not wish it, what is this the Lady My brother writes to me to take?

_Bes_.

And please your Grace this is she: Charge, will you come near the Princess?

_Pan_.

You'r welcome from your Country, and this land shall shew unto you all the kindness that I can make it; what's your name?

_Spa_.

_Thalectris_.

_Pan_.

Y'are very welcome, you have got a letter to put you to me, that has power enough to place mine enemy here; then much more you that are so far from being so to me that you ne're saw me.

_Bes_.

Madam, I dare pa.s.s my word for her truth.

_Spa_.

My truth?

_Pan_.

Why Captain, do you think I am afraid she'l steal?

_Bes_.

I cannot tell, servants are slippery, but I dare give my word for her, and for honesty, she came along with me, and many favours she did me by the way, but by this light none but what she might do with modesty, to a man of my rank.

_Pan_.

Why Captain, here's no body thinks otherwise.

_Bes_.

Nay, if you should, your Grace may think your pleasure; but I am sure I brought her from _Armenia_, and in all that way, if ever I touch'd any bare of her above her knee, I pray G.o.d I may sink where I stand.

_Spa_.

Above my knee?

_Bes_.

No, you know I did not, and if any man will say, I did, this sword shall answer; Nay, I'le defend the reputation of my charge whilst I live, your Grace shall understand I am secret in these businesses, and know how to defend a Ladies honour.

_Spa_.

I hope your Grace knows him so well already, I shall not need to tell you he's vain and foolish.

_Bes_.

I you may call me what you please, but I'le defend your good name against the world; and so I take my leave of your Grace, and of you my Lord Protector; I am likewise glad to see your Lords.h.i.+p well.

_Bac_.

O Captain _Bessus_, I thank you, I would speak with you anon.

_Bes_.

When you please, I will attend your Lords.h.i.+p.

_Bac_.

Madam, I'le take my leave too.